Best design project - Luitjen Landscaping

Luijten Landscaping has won the Premier Design Award for its clever planning, lush planting and innovative pool fencing on a tight suburban site

The Orewa Sub-Tropical Retreat project turned a residential garden into a lush, resort-inspired haven – wowing judges and clients alike. It was praised for its spatial clarity and well-resolved layout, realising the homeowners’ vision of a Balinese-style retreat while integrating existing structures and natural contours.

Maximising space

“This cleverly resolved project demonstrates a very well thought-out response to a tight site, achieving the client’s brief with spatial clarity and finesse,” the judges said.

“The layout is compact, yet everything fits with purpose and ease, showing a clever mix of function and form.” The garden is experienced as a series of distinct yet connected zones, each tailored for family gatherings or quiet reflection. The design includes a swimming pool and spa, floating timber stairs, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and a gazebo with a louvered roof – all framed by dense, subtropical planting.

Vertical sleeper pool fencing, mixing timber and glass, was singled out as a standout feature for its ability to maintain privacy and ensure safety without making the pool feel closed off.

“The choice of construction material is particularly interesting – especially the cleverly designed pool fencing, which blurs the sense of containment to the pool area,” said the judges. The floating stairs were also highlighted by the judges, who described the feature as introducing “a sculptural quality, anchoring the design with its visual interest”.

When it came to the planting, judges noted the “lush and vibrant” scheme and “striking foliage

contrasts” as evidence of “great plant knowledge”. The layered greenery also creates a sheltered, wind-resistant microclimate and enhances the garden’s seclusion from neighbouring properties.

A passionate owner-gardener now maintains the garden, which has matured into a private sanctuary that continues to impress.