A stall, raffle table, coffee cart and book stand with the latest signed releases by leading authors will be available at this location. A floral demonstration by Victoria Whitelaw will take place between 11am–3pm, providing an opportunity for visitors to meet and speak with a leading floral designer.

Entering the grounds of Fairfield Hall through grand wrought-iron gates, a sweeping bluestone driveway gently curves towards the stately Victorian Italianate residence, designed around 1890 by the esteemed architect George Jobbins. A towering palm tree anchors the circular drive near the main entrance, its height almost rivalling that of the home’s three-storey tower. This vantage point offers the owners panoramic views stretching northward to the city skyline and south across Brighton to the tranquil waters of Port Phillip Bay.

Encompassing over 3,400 square metres, the Paul Bangay-designed gardens pay homage to the property’s rich heritage. The driveway is framed between garden beds that burst with colour and textural layers. Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii ‘Dropmore’), White Indian Haw- thorn (Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Snow Maiden’) and Mexican Sage Bush (Salvia leucantha) mingle with fragrant lavender, Blue Beardtongue (Penstemons), and the silvery softness of Lamb’s Ears (Stachys byzantine). Halfway up on the right, blush-pink Pierre de Ronsard® roses (Rosa cv.) climb a chalk-black pergola, their delicate blooms softening the look of the cast-iron frame. Passing beneath the arbour, an expansive lawn stretches toward a central fountain dotted with water lilies. From this position, unobstructed views of the landmark mansion and its position within the garden are revealed. The romantic roof turrets, striking bichrome brickwork, and wraparound verandah adorned with Victorian cast-iron lacework, create a timeless elegance that mirrors the feel of the grounds.

To create the spacious lawn and six-metre-wide garden beds, the former tennis court in the front garden was removed. The new layout allows for an artful layering of trees, climbers, shrubs, and ground covers, including numerous drought-tolerant varieties. Paul’s knowl- edge of the soil greatly influenced the planting scheme. “These soils here contain a sandy base, which means nutrients and water tend to leach away more easily,” he explains. “Certain plants won’t thrive in these conditions, so composting and fertilising are especially important.”

The rejuvenated front garden now brims with an assemblage of vibrant blooms and lush greenery. White Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstro–emia indica ‘Natchez’) and Frikart’s Asters (Aster x frikartii ‘Monch’) combine gracefully with the feathery foliage of the Powis Castle Wormwood (Artemisia ‘Powis Castle’), Gardenias (Gardenia Augus–ta ‘Florida’), and fragrant Daphne (Daphne odora). Centred on the southern boundary, a lovingly restored gazebo – faithful to the original design – is framed by swaying stems of French and English laven- der, Lampwick (Phlomis purpurea ‘Alba’), and Waverly sage (Salvia Waverly), their scents mingling in the breeze. Brush Cherry (Syzygium paniculatum) offers a neat border, lending structure to the display. Along the southern and eastern fence lines, a harmonious combi- nation of Bay Hedge (Laurus nobilis), Sweet Viburnum (Viburnum odoratissimum) and Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica) provide further privacy and year-round greenery, while offering a visual frame to this large garden room.

As you approach the house, a striking geometric paving pattern, interspersed with lawn, heralds the entrance to a path that skirts the front verandah and leads down the east side of the house. Designed according to a traditional layout using natural stone to honour the home’s heritage, the path was subtly modernised with the choice of thin Filetti pavers.

The east side garden features an original bronze fountain nestled among Canary Island Ivy (Hedera canariensis), with the glossy leaves of Magnolia Coolwyns (Magnolia grandiflora ‘Coolwyn gloss’) partially concealing the adjacent fence. Lilly Pilly (Syzygium smithii) trees spread their branches, creating a play of light and shade on the paving.

Further along, the perennial groundcover Ajuga Jungle Beauty (Ajuga reptans) flourishes near spheres of Japanese box (Buxus microphylla var. japonica) and Oakleaf Hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia).

A charming glasshouse marks the entrance to a small citrus grove leading to a beautifully designed carpentry studio, guest cottage, and pool at the back of the house. Pleached Magnolias (Magnolia grandiflora), Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila), and Star Jasmine (Trache–lospermum jasminoides) follow the rear fenceline, forming an elegant backdrop to the shimmering pool. Stone lions stand sentinel at the water’s edge, offering a touch of grandeur to complement the elegant sandstone walls and paving.

After viewing the pool area, retrace your steps back around the front of the house, then follow the path past the herb garden on your right and the garage on your left. There you will find the old pizza oven, now fully restored, which has become a cherished focal point for family gatherings and alfresco cooking.

To finish, head to the stall and purchase your fresh produce, baked goods, and an array of flower-and-garden-themed gifts. A nearby floral demonstration by the esteemed floral designer Victoria Whitelaw will take place between 11am–3pm, providing visitors with inspiration for their own designs. Visit the book stand where several prominent authors will be available to sign their latest releases.

A raffle table is located at this property, offering visitors the chance to win a covetable selection of prizes. Representatives from Botanica World Discoveries will be at this garden to speak with visitors. Key contributors to the design of this property include Stephen Akehurst, Paul Bangay and Charlotte Coote. A limited number of signed copies of Paul Bangay’s latest book, ‘Big Gardens’, and Charlotte Coote’s books, ‘The Flower Room’ and ‘Colour is Home’, are available for sale at the stall located at Fairfield Hall, 224 North Rd, Caulfield South.

*North Road Reserve carpark is 900 metres from this location, approximately a 12-minute walk. Please refer to the map for other parking options.

Located on Brighton’s illustrious Golden Mile, St Ives boasts sprawl- ing 1,900-square-metre grounds featuring a 2009 two-story residence masterfully designed by renowned Australian architect Stephen Akehurst. The property’s elegant garden is the work of celebrated designer Paul Bangay, while Charlotte Coote, Founder and Director of Coote & Co., has curated the outdoor décor and the home’s interiors in her timeless ‘classic contemporary’ style.

Drawing inspiration from the understated elegance of the Arts and Crafts movement, St Ives showcases an interplay of natural materials, exposed beams, deep eaves, and a connection between the home and its natural surroundings. Paul collaborated closely with Stephen to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, achiev- ing a harmonious unity. “I love designing gardens that embrace and enhance Stephen’s architecture,” Paul says. “For this project, I wanted to inject some of the feeling of the gardens I’ve created on Long Island, New York. The goal at St Ives was to evoke the sense of an endless summer holiday by the sea.”

Entering from Dudley Street and making your way past pleached American Linden trees (Tilia americana) down the side path, you arrive at a garden oasis defined by impeccable balance, symmetry, and a grand sense of scale. Throughout, formality guides the land- scape’s design. Manicured hedges and a carefully restrained colour palette add to an atmosphere of calm, while the sweeping emerald lawn promises leisurely afternoons and frequent outdoor gatherings with family and friends.

Stepping onto the grassy expanse, you will notice an inviting garden pavilion with a shingled roof on the right, its entrance flanked by large white ceramic pots crowned with perfect Buxus Balls. Striped awnings provide shade when needed, and outdoor sofas decorated with patterned throw cushions echo the verdant hues of the surround- ing foliage.

Just a short stroll from Brighton’s iconic foreshore, Paul Bangay’s vision of a perpetual summer comes to life in this expansive garden, enhanced by the presence of two Canary Island palms. Establishing dramatic focal points as they frame the pool area, these towering specimens are underplanted with Agapanthus (Agapanthus afri–canus), with beds of French Lavender (Lavandula dentata) nearby. Tucked beneath the palm on the right, a charming children’s cubby house is painted a gentle sage, harmonising with the garden’s soft tones and mimicking the hues of the main house.

Enclosed within a classic white picket fence, the expansive pool area provides an idyllic retreat for relaxation and leisure. The pool house, with its shingled roof, crisp white shutters, and stone paving, thoughtfully echoes the architectural language of the main residence. On either side of the pavilion, meticulously clipped low Buxus hedging frames a pair of ‘garden rooms’, each anchored by a large Tuscan-style ceramic vase. Along the rear boundary, an avenue of Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora Alta®) and pleached Manchurian Pears (Pyrus ussuriensis) form a lush, natural screen around the pool, ensuring privacy while painting a backdrop of glossy green foliage that shifts to rich gold and crimson hues in autumn.

As you head back towards the house, you encounter the covered entertaining room extending from the rear façade. The garden steps leading inside are flanked by sculptural stone water features, intro- ducing a contemporary edge and peaceful atmosphere through the gentle sound of cascading water. Within the loggia, a series of bi-fold doors open onto the garden, seamlessly linking the house to the surrounding vegetation. A large dining table, pizza oven, barbecue, and generous bench space allow for lively gatherings, while at the far end, a comfortable sitting area features an open fireplace – perfect for cooler evenings. Stone feature walls echo natural materials in the garden, reinforcing the connection to the landscape and harmonising with the water features.

Guides from Botanica World Discoveries will be in the garden to chat with visitors.

*Parking will not be available in Brandon Close, which is a cul-de-sac. Parking is available 350 metres away at North Road Reserve Car Park, which is approximately a 4-minute walk. Please refer to the map provided for parking options.

Step into this secluded garden sanctuary and discover a thoughtfully curated garden designed by its owner, who not only envisioned the poetic layout and planting scheme but also tends to much of the gardening herself.

As you approach the entrance on Brandon Close, a lush visual feast welcomes you – Lilly Pillies (Syzygium smithii), Pink Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica), Laurustinus (Viburnum tinus), and stately Capital Pears (Pyrus calleryana ‘Capital’). To the right, a tidy hedge of Chilean Guava (Ugni molinae) borders the pathway, while on the left, a thoughtfully arranged garden bed leads your gaze toward an inviting gazebo. Here, the harmonious blend of Chinese Pistachio (Pistacia chinensis), Ecklon’s Spurflower (Plectranthus ecklonii), and Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) creates layers of colour, texture, and subtle fragrance.

Near the gazebo, you’ll find graceful Hawthorn and Jacaranda trees and the striking purple spires of Pride of Madeira (Echium candi–cans). Camellias and hydrangeas are complemented by the soft green foliage of Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’. Lady Palms (Rhapis excelsa), their fan-shaped leaves lending a touch of the tropics, are planted alongside hardy New Zealand Rock Lilies (Arthropodium cirratum) towards the fence line. Following the path towards the pond, you encounter a gentle drift of purple Japanese Windflowers (Anemone japonica ‘Bowles Purple’) nestled beneath an ornamental Bechtel Crab Apple (Malus ioensis plena). Bearded Irises (Iris germanica) add a sculptural element to the setting.

Along the shady path to the waterfall, sheltered beneath the towering canopy of an American Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), you’ll find the South African native plant Fire Lily (Clivia miniata). Bird’s-Nest Ferns (Asplenium nidus), robust Cast-iron Plants (Aspidistra elatior), and Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena globosa) add life to this shaded scene.

Nestled among the rocks, clusters of Sea Lavender (Limonium vul–gare), Foxtail Grass (Pennisetum x advena ‘Rubrum’ Purple Fountain), and the hardy Japanese Sedge (Carex oshimensis ‘Feather Falls’) add texture and movement. As you wander further, a white Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) and a stately Maidenhair tree (Ginkgo biloba) come into view, along with a charming collection of salvias. Elegant Japanese Irises (Iris ensata), golden mounds of Stonecrop (Sedum album), and white Japanese Windflowers (Anemone hupe–hensis) are found near the pond.

Looking towards the Eastern side of the pond, a Red-flowering Gum (Corymbia ficifolia) and deciduous Dwarf Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstro–emia ‘Natchez’) catch the eye. Facing the lawn, garden beds burst with Calla Lilies (Zantedeschia aethiopica), Salvia ‘Hot Lips’ (Salvia microphylla ‘Hot Lips’), and a joyous floral cluster of ‘Little Sunrays’ (Euryops pectinatus). Yellow Asiatic lilies (Lilium spp.) add to the display with a sea of mauve-blue Catmint (Nepeta racemosa ‘Walk- er’s Low’) flowers, skirting the border. Layers of flowers and foliage unfold near the rear boundary, creating an elegant backdrop to the rest of the garden. Lilly Pillies (Syzygium smithii), Slender Palm Lily (Cordyline stricta), Velvet Groundsel (Roldana cristobalensis) and Elephant Ears (Colocasia esculenta) mingle with Daphne ‘Perfume Princess’ (Daphne odora x bholua), White Azalea (Rhododendron indica ‘Alba Magnifica’) and Snowball Bush (Viburnum opulus) to create a harmonious scene. Bottlebrush shrubs (Callistemon salignus ‘Great Balls of Fire’) and Cape Honeysuckle (Tecoma capensis) thrive near the pond, their blossoms attracting native birds. A graceful Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) stands nearby, with umbrel- la-shaped spring flowers emerging beneath new-season foliage. Cheerful Dahlias (Dahlia pinnata), two species of Spurflower (Plectranthus ‘Velvet Elvis’ and ‘Velvet Lady’) and Coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea) ensure the garden bursts with seasonal colour and vitality.

In the garden’s western corner, close to the potting shed, a magnifi- cent Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta) rises above its companions, commanding attention as a natural focal point. Beneath its dappled shade, flowering shrubs like Breath of Heaven (Coleonema pulchel–lum) and the New Zealand native Taupata (Coprosma repens) mingle with blooms of Bugle (Ajuga reptans) and the delicate floral sprays of Buzz Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii). Subtropical hints come courtesy of the feathery Robellini Palm (Phoenix roebelenii), a mature Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei), Double Pink Hibiscus (Hibis–cus rosa-sinensis) and the dramatic, cascading trumpets of Angel’s Trumpets (Brugmansia versicolor), their flowers swaying like lanterns in the spring air. The striking flowers of the Honeysuckle Fuchsia plant (Fuchsia triphylla ‘Coralle’) mirror the magenta foliage shades of Herbst’s Bloodleaf (Iresine herbstii), a Brazilian native.

Closer to the house, four wood-framed beds are planted with season- al vegetables and herbs. The nearby fence line features Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica), Nepalese Iris (Iris nepalensis), and Cream Fairy Magnolias. Near the terrace, weeping Cherry trees (Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’) are underplanted with a vibrant carpet of red Salvia. An ornamental Pear (Pyrus ‘Chanticleer’) anchors the lawn, surrounded by spring bulbs.

Myles Broad, one of the principal designers from Eckersley Garden Architecture, will be on site from 12pm–3pm to discuss the planting scheme with visitors. Annie Smithers and Susan Thompson will be stationed at this garden to talk to visitors about their farm-to-table ethos from 11am–1pm. A limited number of signed copies of Annie’s books are available for purchase from the Garden Day stall, located at Fairfield Hall, 225 North Road, Caulfield South.

*Parking is available in surrounding streets, North Brighton Station Car Park and Secure Parking located at 1 Asling Street, Brighton. Please refer to the map provided for parking options.

A celebration of food, form and foliage, Kelso is a vibrant and elegant expression of productive living. This remarkable property, situated around an 1853 Victorian home, is located on land that formed part of an original farm in the 1850s.

Designed in collaboration with Eckersley Garden Architecture in 2019, the rejuvenation of this established garden has been thoughtfully carried out to improve both visual appeal and edible production. “We have always been very conscious of living as sustainably as we can, so incorporating food-producing plants was important in our brief to Eckersleys when we updated the garden. It is also bringing the land back to what it was originally used for,” the owner explains. The result is a layered, immersive garden experience where abun- dance, structure and softness exist in harmony.

Upon entering the property through double gates, a linear garden bed along the red brick driveway bursts with newly planted herbaceous perennials, designed to attract pollinators and support a productive ecosystem. Banana plants, broccoli, and fennel plants offer shape and texture. Added sculptural interest is provided by two works by Australian artist, Greg Johns, positioned among Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’). A delightful mix of small flowering perennials, including bright yellow Billy Buttons (Craspedia globosa) and Agastache Elite Blueberry (Agastache hybrid) plants, is shaded by a majestic Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora), which is estimated to be over 100 years old. Of a similar age is the recently installed 100-year-old Elkhorn, a very special gift from a friend who’d inherited it from her mother.

Walking further down the driveway towards a Rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum) and a large Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), you pass Maidenhair trees (Ginkgo biloba) on the right and an impressive commercial kitchen on the left before arriving at the rear garden, tucked behind the modern extension. It is here that the true heart of the garden reveals itself. Large water tanks are screened with passionfruit vines, while narrow garden beds are replete with parsley, sage, mint, and strawberries. Sleeper-edged vegetable beds are laden with seasonal offerings. Four olive trees and a swathe of potato plants grow along the fence line while a Dwarf Pomegranate (Punica granatum ‘Nana’) bears its eye-catching fruit. Nearby, the arms of an espaliered fig spread across an exterior wall, and sweet and slightly tangy Midyim berries (Austromyrtus dulcis) grow in pots. A wooden deck area with a dining setting is partly shaded by Virginia Creepers overhead.

As you continue toward the southern entrance, the garden reveals further delights. A magnificent cycad anchors a lush corner, while a soft carpet of Australian Violets (Viola hederacea) and Baby’s Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii) cushions the base of the stately brick façade. To the right of the pergola/outdoor dining area, the broad boughs of a significant 80-year-old Pomegranate (Punica granatum) catch your eye. Behind the pool, rows of Tahitian Lime Trees (Citrus latifolia) are softened by rivers of Creeping Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Prostrata’) and Lord Howe Wedding Lilies (Dietes robinsoniana) provide a graceful backdrop for thriving rhubarb. Handsome pots containing Mountain Cabbage Trees (Cassonia peticulata) guide you along stone pavers, bordered by a lush carpet of Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens). The L-shaped verandah overlooks a collection of five rose bushes underplanted with bright Elephants Ears (Bergenia), offering tranquil views across both the garden and the pool.

Sinuously curving garden beds frame a deep green lawn, punctuated by fruiting trees – crab apples, avocado and lemon – and a stunning Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana). Beneath its canopy, vibrant underplantings of Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), Blechnum nudum ‘Silver Lady’, and Bergenia cordifolia add texture and richness.

An elegant Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) keeps company with a large Feijoa tree (Acca sellowiana) while a Tree Gardenia (Gardenia thunbergia) climbs the home’s front façade, completing the vibrant scene.

As visitors continue to explore, the garden’s edible purpose continues to reveal itself in gentle layers. Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus), strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa), and other productive varieties are woven seamlessly among ornamental plantings, ensuring the space remains both beautiful and bountiful.

A selection of plants on this property have been grown from heirloom vegetable and flower seeds sourced from The Diggers Club, ensuring the garden is as sustainable as it is stunning. Designed in collabora- tion with Eckersley Garden Architecture, Michael from ABH (Aleister Branwen Horticulture), and the owners themselves, the landscape’s thoughtful layers pay tribute to both tradition and innovation.

Landscape designer Kate Seddon will be stationed at this property from 10am–4pm to speak with visitors.

Ballara’s garden seamlessly blends heritage with modern planting schemes across nearly 3000 square metres of carefully designed grounds. The late Edwardian home, notable for its gabled terracotta roof and original stables, was renovated by RossTang Architects, with interior design by Georgina Jeffries. The expansive, well-proportioned grounds were created by Kate Seddon Landscape Design, forming a harmonious retreat where tradition and innovation coexist.

Entering from Selwyn Street, visitors encounter semi-formal gardens framing the driveway and porte-cochère. A large Lilly Pilly (Acmena smithii) and Spotted Gum (Corymbia maculata) flank the entrance, while White Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica x fauriei ‘Natchez’) line the fence. Underplantings include Dwarf Pittosporum (Pittos–porum tobira ‘Miss Muffett’), Japanese Silver Grass (Miscanthus ‘Eileen Quinn’), Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus ‘Nico’), and Windflowers (Anemone x hybrida ‘Honorine Joubert’). The rear path is bordered by Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia), New Zealand Rock Lily (Arthropodium ‘Te Puna’), Cape Lily (Velthemia bracteata), Sedum (Hylotelephium spectabile ‘Autumn Joy’), and a carpet of Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens).

Beyond the internal gate is a Mediterranean-inspired grove of citrus, apricot, nectarine, and pomegranate, underplanted with lemon-scent- ed thyme, creeping thyme, woolly thyme, and trailing rosemary. White Dwarf Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis intermedia ‘Oriental Pearl’), Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera ‘Fastigiatum’), and Sweet Lili Agastache (Agastache aurantiana ‘Sweet Lili’) add seasonal colour. Avens (Geum ‘Totally Tangerine’), Torch Lily (Kniphofia ‘Ice Queen’), Savin Juniper (Juniperus sabina), and Grecian Foxglove (Digitalis aevigata) offer texture with Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis), White Correa (Correa alba), and Silver Bush (Convolvulus cneorum).

A stone-paved courtyard sits beneath Camphor Laurels (Liriodendron tulipifera ‘Fastigiata’), opening to a sunny lawn bordered by sweep- ing, curved beds of trees and ornamentals. The transition from struc- tured front gardens to the relaxed, richly planted rear demonstrates Ballara’s evolving landscape of light, scent, and seasonal change.

In a narrow bed along the length of the attractive timber pool fence are Silvergrass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Eileen Quinn’), Silver Bush (Convolvulus cneorum) and Seaside Daisy (Erigeron karvinskianus). Towards the stables-turned-pool house, you’ll find a striking Pacific Madrone (Arbutus menziesii), White Cedar (Melia azedarach ‘Elite’), shrubs of pink Chinese Fringe flowers (Loropetalum ‘Burgundy’) and Smoke Bush (Cotinus coggygria ‘Grace’). A family of weeping Lilly Pillies (Waterhousea floribunda) forms an L-shaped border along the north and west fences. Soft Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens) spreads around steppers, creating a lush, inviting feel, and more Savin Juniper (Juniperus sabina) spreads under tall Eucalyptus. Mounds of Spurge (Euphorbia characias) and Dwarf Pittosporum (Pittosporum ‘Miss Muffet’) provide dense low cover amongst New Zealand Rock Lily (Arthropodium cirratum ‘Matapouri Bay’). Bearded Iris (Iris germanica), Silver Mist (Helichrysum petiolare ‘Minus’), Foun- tain Grass (Pennisetum ‘Red Buttons’) and spring flowering bulbs create pockets of interest on either side of the lawn, and a foreground view to hedging of Sweet Viburnum (Viburnum odoratissimum) and Orange Jessamine (Murraya paniculata).

On the eastern side of the pool, Sea Box (Alyxia buxifolia) is one of a suite of plants selected to grow in a challenging environment beneath a mature Manna Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis). The area also features a variety of Crassula species, including Ripple Jade (Crassula undulatifolia), Money Plants (C. ovata), and the shade-loving Fairy Crassula (C. multicava), as well as Peppermint Geranium (Pelargonium tomentosum). Along the west side of the garden, you’ll discover a tranquil seating nook shaded by a majestic Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla). Its sweeping canopy, dramatic buttress and aerial roots lend a feeling of awe to the setting. Beneath this leafy expanse, New Zealand Rock Lilies (Arthropodium cirratum), Forest Lily (Veltheimia bracteata), and the bold, glossy foliage of Tractor Seat (Ligularia dentata reniformis) plants thrive in the shade. This inviting timber deck area, designed by Kate Patterson Landscape Design in 2020, saw utilities relocated to create space for casual entertaining, including a barbecue, pizza oven, and bench space for food preparation. Nearby, the modern rear extension features elegant French doors opening onto a large, paved terrace. An arbour, draped with ornamental grapevines, frames the space. The terrace offers ample room for outdoor dining and provides easy access to the interior’s living and kitchen areas.

Along the narrow path between the house and garage leading to the front garden, native violets (Viola banksia) and climbing jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) soften the scene. Closer to Bay Street, you’ll find Rice Paper Plants (Tetrapanax papyrifer), Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis ‘Spring Pearl’), Grecian Foxglove (Digitalis laevigata), and Blue Spurge (Euphorbia myrsinites). This part of the garden also features Weeping Lilly Pilly (Waterhousea floribunda ‘Warners Select’), Mexican Sage (Salvia leucantha), Mediterranean Spurge (Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii), and Morrison’s Maiden Grass (Miscanthus transmorrisonensis).

Clipped Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica) and lavender spheres contrast with Lilyturf (Liriope giganteum), Reeves’ Meadowsweet (Spiraea cantoniensis), and Pale Purple Coneflower (Echinacea palli–da), bringing texture and movement to the front. Southern Magnolias (Magnolia grandiflora ‘Alta’™), Chinese Elm (Ulmus parvifolia ‘Todd’), Red Flame Tree (Brachychiton populneus x acerifolius ‘Jerilderie Red’), and Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica ‘Tuscarora’) add height and seasonal colour. Fan palms (Licuala ramsayi), Chusan palms (Trachycarpus fortunei), and screening from Lilly Pilly (Waterhousea floribunda) and Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica) complete the layered composition.

Scott Leung, one of the principal designers from Eckersley Garden Architecture, will be on site from 10am–1pm to discuss the planting scheme with visitors.

*Please do not park in Normanby Street. It is strongly recommended that you refer to the parking options on the map provided, which includes a public car park at The Baths, Middle Brighton (251 Esplanade, Brighton), located at the end of Normanby Street.

The landscape design at Normanby House presented Eckersley Garden Architecture with the opportunity to create an environment where echoes of the past are woven together with the bold language of modernity. Set on just over 1,000 square metres, this family home, with its double-fronted Victorian façade, is a testament to the endur- ing style of its era, standing as a proud reminder of Brighton’s rich architectural heritage.

Yet, beyond its traditional frontage lies a striking contemporary exten- sion by Pleysier Perkins Architects, whose dramatic concrete loggia shields the northern living areas as it sweeps gracefully eastward. This bold architectural form offers a sheltered outdoor entertaining area, complete with a sunken circular lounge area and fire pit, inviting both relaxation and interaction.

The challenge was to design a garden that would bridge these two distinct worlds; to pay homage to the home’s historical roots while embracing the adventurous spirit of its modern renovation. Eckersley Garden Architecture approached this task with sensitivity and vision, crafting a landscape that unites contrasting aesthetics into a harmo- nious whole. The garden’s layout was carefully considered to accen- tuate the transition from the dignified, ornate presence of the Victorian street frontage to the daring, sculptural forms at the rear. Plantings and materials were selected not only for their beauty, but for their ability to create dialogue between past and present – softening architectural lines, echoing period details, and introducing contem- porary flair. Throughout the process, every detail was thoughtfully orchestrated to ensure that both tradition and innovation could coexist. The result is a celebration of the home’s unique evolution, enveloping residents and visitors alike in an atmosphere that feels at once grounded in history and alive with possibility.

The front garden is a tribute to the property’s history, anchored by two venerable trees: a Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) and a Silver Elm (Ulmus minor ‘Variegata’). Though both have endured the trials of time and weather – evident in limbs lost to recent storms – they continue to evoke an atmosphere of a bygone era. Their gra- cious canopies are joined by the delicate outline of Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum ‘Dissectum Seiryu’), whose filigree leaves shift in the breeze, and the robust, Australian native Tuckeroo tree (Cupaniopsis anacardioides). Beneath these giants, a selection of underplantings adds softness and rhythm to the garden: New Zealand Rock Lilies (Arthropodium cirratum) punctuate the shade with their star-like blooms, while Fringed Iris flowers (Iris japonica) and Windflowers (Anemone x hybrida) gracefully infuse the scene with fragrance year- round. Broad-leaved Velvet Groundsel (Roldana petasitis) adds a bold textural punch, counterbalanced by the compact, glossy foliage of Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis ‘Oriental Pearl’).

Over the years, the owner’s careful additions – favourite plants chosen for their beauty and personal meaning – have enriched the garden’s palette, ensuring continual interest through each changing season. Extending along the eastern boundary, a slender garden bed posi- tioned along the driveway echoes this theme of nuanced repetition and botanical harmony. Here, recurring Tuckeroo trees (Cupani–opsis anacardioides) provide structure, while the whimsical foliage of River Wattle (Acacia cognata) brings softness. Vertical accents of Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata) climb and shift with the seasons, adding living texture and an evolving colour palette to the architecture. Next to the garage, custom-crafted steel planters offer a dedicated space for growing vegetables, blending utility with aesthetic appeal and encouraging a deeper connection with the landscape.

At the rear, the garden shifts into an overtly modern expression, mirroring the bold architectural language of the home’s contemporary extension. Centre stage is claimed by a Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia), whose vibrant purple blossoms provide a dramatic counterpoint in the summer to the geometric lines of the sunken entertaining area. The pool is embedded within deep, layered borders, its presence softened by a lush interplay of plants drawn from the tone established at the front and side gardens.

The landscape at Normanby House is a testament to creative vision and thoughtful stewardship – an environment where the echoes of history combine with modern design to form an environment of enduring beauty.

• The gardens are open from 10am–4pm.
• Ensure you have your ticket/s to scan at each garden, as they are a condition of entry.
• You can start your tour at any of the gardens. Carpooling and/or public transport are highly recommended to help avoid parking problems and traffic congestion. We encourage patrons to walk between gardens, where possible.
• Refer to the map to plan your route and for other helpful informa- tion about public transport, local cafés, parking and amenities.
• No public lavatories are available in the private gardens. Please use public facilities as detailed on the map.
• The stalls and raffle tables at this event are cashless. EFTPOS facilities are available.
• Surveillance systems are operational in the gardens.
• Dogs and picnics are not permitted.
• Photography and videos of the houses are not permitted except by assigned professionals commissioned by the NGVWA. Official photographers and videographers will capture footage and images on the day for use in NGVWA social media and subsequent Garden Day promotions. Please advise the photographers/videographers or the volunteer garden attendants if you do not wish to be photographed.
• It is recommended that visitors wear sensible shoes. There may be hazards in gardens that affect access, including steps, steep inclines, gravel paths, narrow paths, rocks obscuring clear access, water features, split levels and swimming pools. Please use handrails for stairs where available.
• Volunteer garden attendants and NGV security personnel with first aid training will be present in each garden.
• Some gardens have areas that are not accessible to ticketholders. Please follow the instructions of the volunteer garden attendants and security personnel at all times.
• Please come prepared with your own water bottle, sun hat, sun-screen, umbrella, and raincoat, if necessary.
• Please note, parking will not be available in Brandon Close, which is a cul-de-sac. Public parking is available next to North Point café (2B North Road, Brighton).
• Convenient parking for the Normanby Street garden (Normanby House) is found at The Baths, Middle Brighton (251 Esplanade, Brighton), which is situated a short walk from the garden.