Oasis in THE CITY

Channelling all the warmth and colour of a Moroccan riad, a compact backyard is magically transformed into a lush haven.

- STORY Bethan Lacoba | PHOTOGRAPHY Brigid Arnott

Brimming with plants native to Central America, Southern Africa and the Mediterranean, and designed with a distinctly Moroccan flavour, it's hard to believe this exotic garden lies in the inner suburbs of Sydney. The lush sanctuary was once a tired and underused space sandwiched between a traditional house and garage. Looking to transform it into “a functional haven of outdoor living and lifestyle”, the owners contacted landscape designer Adam Robinson. “They wanted the space to be broken up into zones to maximise functional use and be able to enjoy little moments in different areas, chasing the shade around the movement of the sun,” says Adam. To that end, he cleverly sectioned the ordinary rectangular yard into segments by using a variety of paving patterns and plant groupings that worked around existing palms.

The new layout includes a dining zone, seating for relaxing, a barbecue on a cantilevered bench and a water feature. “We incorporated elements like fountains, lush greenery, vibrant colours and intricate patterns, marrying the ethos of tradition with contemporary flair,” says Adam.