Ultimate outdoor coastal retreat

Refreshed outdoor space in Merewether celebrating all the seasons.

The outdoor space at this Merewether residence has been transformed into a modern coastal oasis that can be used year round by the whole family.

When creative director at Octopus Garden Design, Gerrad Everson first visited the property he was greeted with an old fibreglass pool, an outdated Bali hut style pergola and a struggling lawn. Now, the space is unrecognisable, transformed into a luxe retreat complete with lush semi-tropical gardens, a new pool, sunken fire pit area, poolside pavilion, alfresco entertaining area and an outdoor kitchen.

“The decision was made to replace the failing pool with a new and bigger concrete pool turning it long ways on the block to utilise the space for additional alfresco and connect the pool visually with the house, only separated by a sunken fire pit area perfect for cozy evenings,” Gerrad said.

“The alfresco area was expanded to create a seamless flow from the indoor living spaces to the outdoors, while the struggling lawn was removed to make way for lush, semi-tropical plantings that would thrive in the coastal climate,” he said. 

The Bali hut pergola was also demolished and replaced with a sophisticated poolside pavilion, designed to serve multiple purposes as a home office, guest bedroom, or teenage retreat. It also has a bathroom which means no more wet feet through the house.

An overhead retractable, canvas roman blind has been incorporated between the existing alfresco and the new pavilion.

“I love how adaptable it is. It provides shade over the space whilst delicately connecting the structures enabling an intimate setting for long lunches,” Gerrad said. 

The sunken fire pit area features organic-shaped porcelain stepping stones and built-in seating using composite Millboard decking boards that don’t require any maintenance. Carefully placed lighting throughout the gardens means the space can be enjoyed throughout the evening as well and it provides a beautiful outlook from inside.

Gerrad said the new design has given the family a modern coastal outdoor space that’s versatile, stylish and low-maintenance.

Modern Edge Landscapes expertly constructed the outdoor haven. And it wasn’t all smooth sailing, with Director Liam Badzmirowski saying they had to overcome some significant site access challenges by having traffic redirected and all materials craned in over the house.

It was all worth it in the end and he said the clients were totally “stoked” with the final result.

“All the materials selected came together really well. It’s like a holiday space without going anywhere,” Liam said.

“Whether it’s a peaceful morning coffee on your deck, a fun-filled afternoon with family by the pool, or an evening spent around a fire pit, this outdoor space is the ultimate retreat,” he said.

“It’s about creating those special moments of escape and serenity, right at home”.

Read more in our Spring Edition of Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle Magazine or subscribe here.

Story Nathalie Craig | Photography Sophie Tyler