Fitzroy Courtyard

The previous owners of this site had failed to recognise the history and potential value of this courtyard. This site was originally one of Fitzroy’s first farriers, which dated back to the 1860’s.

When our client approached us the weeds and rubbish onsite disguised the true charm of this historic site. We were champing at the bit to get started on this design.

Working with the new owner we were able to come up with a design that utilised existing materials and was sympathetic to the significance of the site. The original bluestone was re used where possible to create new shape and form to the garden. Left over stone was used to create a raised bed with a seat shaped from a single ring of River Red Gum.

With the original stonewall at the back of the courtyard close to collapsing immediate remediation works were required. Steel posts were sunk and used to brace the wall whilst re-construction was undertaken elsewhere. The solution was to suspend a section of mesh between the posts and train Star Jasmine on the mesh.

The planting design throughout the rejuvenated garden beds is contemporary with a nod to nostalgia. Large plantings such as Miscanthus ‘Cosmopolitan’ create a bold statement while White Thyme meanders over the stone walls creating a courtyard garden which has not only withstood the test of time but will continue to thrive into the future.

Design and planting: Fitzroy Nursery

Construction: Bespoke Landscapes

Photography: Thomas Denning