An Auckland backyard has been transformed into a tranquil summer destination.

Words  Soraya Nicholas     Photography Caroline Ducobu

Peter and Judy Kean were happy with the property they owned and were busy making plans to rebuild it, when suddenly everything changed. They had always admired the home next door, and after living beside it for 10 years, when it came up for sale they decided renovating might be a better option.

“We were actually drawing up plans to build at the time, but we fell in love with this place, and decided to renovate instead,” explains Judy. Since it had picturesque views to the harbour and a tennis court next door that their children were lucky enough to be able to use, they happily moved.

As part of their renovation plans, Judy and Peter opened the home to the view by incorporating a large glass balustrade to enhance their outdoor living space. The only problem was the immediate outlook, which did nothing to enhance the property.
With a very simple brief in mind, the Keans approached Mark Read from Natural Habitats, telling him that they wanted a swimming pool and water feature, as well as a new look for the garden.

“Everything had to revolve around the pool,” says Mark. “We basically transformed the area, which was previously just a sloping lawn, into a tropical themed outdoor destination which extended the outdoor living space, connected the landscape with the home, and greatly improved the look of the property.”

The pool area features “layered” walls and terraces, creating privacy and enhancing the steps down to the lawn. The plan uses Indian sandstone pavers all around the patio, and a swimming pool made from sprayed concrete, with glass mosaics around the waterline. Water jets flow directly into the pool, and there is also a jet machine so the Keans can exercise by swimming into a current.

“Another important part of the landscape design was the entrance to the home,” explains Mark. “There, we created
a sense of arrival, with the layered walls creating a louvered effect, so visitors could sense there was something there, while still keeping it private.”

The landscape renovation has made the small land area seem much larger than it actually is, and the Kean family couldn’t be happier with it. Their children spend hours in the pool, and summer has become even more enjoyable
for Peter and Judy, who love lounging on their deck and taking in the view.

Natural Habitats, 09 970 3488, www.naturalhabitats.co.nz

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