Dapto

Set on a steep site overlooking the Illawarra escarpment, this Dapto garden was designed as a multi-level Mediterranean coastal retreat. Our approach was to work with the natural fall of the land, transforming a challenging slope into a sequence of connected outdoor spaces that each offer a distinct experience while remaining part of one cohesive landscape.

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At the centre of the design is a free-form swimming pool, its organic shape softening the strong level changes across the site. Curved steps and a sculptural arched entry introduce a relaxed Mediterranean character, while frameless glass fencing preserves uninterrupted views across the pool and surrounding valley. Generous limestone terraces provide space for lounging and entertaining, creating a warm and sun-filled transition between the home, pool and garden.

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A custom Luxe Cantilever pergola extends from the home to form an elevated outdoor living room overlooking the pool. Arched openings echo the pool entry below, establishing a consistent architectural language throughout the garden. The pergola’s open, column-free frontage allows the landscape and distant escarpment views to remain the focus, while its lined ceiling gives the space the comfort and finish of an interior room.

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A restrained material palette helps unify the different levels. Savona limestone paving introduces warmth underfoot, while slender batten tiles wrap retaining walls, stairs and poolside structures to provide texture and continuity. Curves, arches and carefully framed views are repeated throughout the design, helping the substantial retaining and structural elements feel integrated rather than imposed upon the landscape.

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The planting palette reinforces the Mediterranean coastal character through sculptural agaves, columnar cacti, fan palms, Italian cypress and silver-toned foliage. Planting is layered through gravel gardens, raised beds and Corten steel-edged terraces, softening the built elements and creating rhythm across the slope. At the lower level, an expansive lawn and informal firepit area provide more relaxed spaces for children, family gatherings and evenings outdoors.

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The completed garden balances architecture, horticulture and complex site planning to create a private resort-like setting. Despite the scale and steepness of the block, each level feels connected, inviting movement through the landscape while continually revealing new outlooks, textures and places to pause.