CASTLECRAG RESIDENCE

Approaching this beautiful, elegant landscape designed by Nelson Thomas, there’s an immediate sense of connection between the architectural home and  surrounding gardens. Layers of green foliage and seasonal flowering create an immersive setting that feels both considered and deeply grounded in its environment.

Nelson Thomas reimagined the garden as the home and family needs changed, carefully adapting the spaces to work with the new architecture while preserving the thoughtful intent of Peter Fudge’s original design, which celebrated the site’s natural environment.

The clients’ played an active role throughout the process, bringing with them, their passion for plants and appreciation of the site’s unique configuration.

Planting is carefully layered, incorporating both native and exotic species to complement the existing footprint of the gardens and plant palette. Spiralling gardens that wrap around the home, create varied perspectives and garden experiences from every angle and outlook.

While planting remains central to the design, lighting also plays an equally important role. Thoughtfully integrated, it defines spaces, manages changing levels, and guides movement throughout the garden. This considered approach extends the family’s enjoyment of the garden beyond daylight hours, creating a safe yet cohesive relationship between built form and landscape – while revealing the garden’s character after dark. 

Sarah Marcellino of Nelson Thomas explains, “Outdoor lighting was an extremely important consideration. The level changes and transitions between different outdoor zones required wayfinding lighting to be subtle yet effective. Having the opportunity to uplight significant trees and planting created another dimension to the garden and extend the time our clients can spend outdoors.”

Linear 112 Path Lights illuminate the site’s natural level transitions, while Step Light Linear Recessed 120 fittings subtly light the timber staircase, leading visitors safely from the garden to the relaxed entertainer’s area above.

Accent 5 and Accent 11 spike lights highlight mature trees and key plantings of various sizes, creating depth and atmosphere at night. The adjustable positioning, with the Riser accessory, allows flexibility to adjust the light as the garden grows.

In addition, Inground Path Light 5 90D fittings line the driveway entrance to provide a subtle way-finder illumination.

The garden flows seamlessly around the house, with carefully selected plants and materials guiding visitors through each zone. Oversized steppers, expansive paved areas, and open lawns transition effortlessly, creating a strong sense of movement and cohesion throughout the landscape.

As Sarah notes, “My favourite part of the garden is the diversity of plants and contrasting foliage. Also the way the newly considered planting seamlessly blend with the existing trees.”