Wonga Park

Originally designed & built by Franklin Landscape & Design over four years ago, the owners of this large property in Wonga Park decided it was time to refresh & upscale their pool & outdoor area.  The brief was clear: “Dave, make it epic.” The clients – Dave’s brother-in-law and his wife, Glenn and Lisa – had high expectations but, being kin, had an equal amount of faith in Dave and his team to deliver!

Wonga Park is located an hour outside of Melbourne, where residents enjoy the luxury of space: enough space to fit in all the features that make for great outdoor living. This backyard is the full entertainer’s-delight package, complete with a pool, spa, daybed, BBQ, fire pit and breakfast bar – all surrounded by lush new planting complimented by the backdrop of a well established garden. There’s also another fire pit and BBQ connected with the alfresco dining area.

Arriving at this property is a treat from the get-go. “We wanted to create a grand entry,” said Dave “to do the house and garden justice.” The black wrought iron gates themselves are impressive, bordered by beautifully crafted stone walls that took more than two months to build. Beyond the gates, the driveway is bordered by Italian Cypress trees (Cupressus sempervirens) underplanted with a Juniper grounder and a lawn sprinkled with Hornbeams (Carpinus sp.). The driveway loops around a classic-style garden situated in front of the house, featuring a fountain set amidst an ornate plant palette including Ficus pumila, red Geraniums, ‘Iceberg’ roses, Buxus sempervirens hedging and Pyrus calleryana ‘Capital’ trees.

In the backyeard, the style is modern-classic. The pool and spa feature Italian-made Bizazza tiles for a high-class finish. The circular spa overflows into the pool creating a seamless transition. The pool is surrounded by Sawn Basalt inlaid with Castlemaine stone, hand cut & laid in a ‘random’ arrangement to give it a rustic edge. Beyond the paving, artificial lawn was chosen as a ‘winter-proof’ option to withstand frost – the Yarra Valley is known for its cold nights & frosty mornings! But outdoor entertaining is not confined to summer. The fire pit and heated alfresco area provide warmth and comfort in the cooler months. The pool and entertaining areas really shine in the evenings, with a lighting scheme that creates a beautiful ambience. The result is an entertainer for all seasons!