Current at: 12 May 2008
Turning a wall into a window on the world
A enquiring member of the public has a problem with her small courtyard garden in an inner Melbourne suburb. “I wouldn’t change it for the world,” she writes. “It is compact, shady in summer and totally private, but the wall at the far end is tall and very stark – not a good look at all.”
There are several possibilities here. Assuming the wall is part of your property – and if it isn’t you can probably get permission from the owner – you can paint it in a more subtle shade, say green or grey.
However, if you are handy with a paintbrush, and have an artistic bent, why not try for a trompe l’oeil, a painted scene which deceives the eye and makes it look like an extension to your garden. Alternatively, you could employ a professional muralist who will work to your ideas, suggest different angles and produce a startling effect which is also a work of art, but I have seen some excellent work done by talented amateurs.
The beauty of this solution is that it is limited only by the imagination. Your garden can be looking out to a tropical island, the pyramids of Egypt, the Sydney Opera House – anything goes.
An ornamental trellis is a more traditional answer and as well as softening the blank wall image can also give the illusion of more space. Another trick, suggested by the gardening expert on a London newspaper, is to have a toughened glass mirror set in a door frame or trellis arch.
Just as large mirrors in small rooms give an illusion of extra space, this will create the impression of a door through to another garden. The mirror will also reflect more light into the courtyard which although undoubtedly a pleasant bolthole on a summer’s day, sounds as if it may be a touch gloomy on an overcast afternoon in July.
That is also something to be considered when selecting plants. Most likely those that thrive in cool shade, say under the canopies of tall trees, will be best suited. Ferns are a possibility, especially if associated with a water feature (using recycled water of course).
Courtyard gardens can be rare gems, especially in the centre of cities were land is scarce. To get the best out of them consult an HIA garden designer who will be happy to offer advice.
Further information: Call 1902 973 555