Tropic plunder

This award-winning garden showcases the best elements of tropical plantings and refined hardscaping with a considered, elegant design and construction.

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There's something luxurious about tropical plants – the glossy greens and lush foliage create a resort-like atmosphere – that makes them a popular design feature for homeowners looking to find a relaxing, holiday vibe for their backyard.

With high-quality features and fittings, this garden from Exotic Living (exotic-living.com.au) has been suitably awarded, winning Gold and Best in Category and Landscaper of the Year (Residential Construction) for projects between $100,000 and $200,000 in The Landscape Association's 2025 Landscape Excellence Awards.

The brief

The owners of the garden were clear in their brief to their chosen landscaper, Exotic Living, asking for a garden with an entertaining area, spa, sauna, and firepit.

“Relaxed, tropical, and inviting” were key words, envisaging a setting where they could relax in their new spa, surrounded by lush tropical foliage.

Originally an underutilised and uninviting backyard, Exotic Living was tasked with creating a luxurious, resort-style hideaway centred around a white, polished-concrete spa. The homeowners wanted to feel like they were on holiday at home, surrounded by greenery, warmth, and a sense of relaxation at every turn.

The clients favoured light, neutral-toned materials, such as whites and creams, complemented by dense, vibrant green foliage. The garden needed to be functional and low maintenance, while also screening unsightly elements such as the carport, which was clearly visible from the main living space.

Practical challenges shaped the brief. Drainage was a concern, with water pooling near the rear of the home. The entry from the loungeroom, via wide sliding doors, was obstructed by a brick retaining wall one metre away, limiting access and making the space feel closed off. Privacy was also an issue, with neighbouring homes overlooking from a higher elevation.