A Minimalist and Low-Maintenance Landscape for New Build in Hobsonville, Auckland

Planning Ahead

Kelvin and Jess had taken ownership of a new build property in Hobsonville, but their ‘house and land’ package didn’t include landscaping. With about a year to go until the projected finish of their home, Kelvin and Jess wanted to get the ball rolling on their outdoor design, so they reached out to Zones Landscaping. 

The couple was paired with Landscaping Consultants Louise Reeve and Logan Bridgens. Kelvin and Jess were laidback about the plans; they just wanted a modern, low-maintenance landscape to enjoy and relax around. 

Exploring the Possibilities

They didn’t specify a budget, only that they’d prefer to stay below $100,000, and though they had an idea of what they wanted, Kelvin and Jess were keen to hear different perspectives and have recommendations from Louise and Logan. Since the property was a new build, the lot was a blank canvas. There was plenty of time to discuss their options, find cost-effective products and suppliers, and come up with the perfect design.

Much of the design and planning stages took place over the course of stringent COVID restrictions, so many meetings were conducted virtually. This ‘downtime’ proved to be useful. Kelvin, Jess, Louise, and Logan were able to spend ample time perfecting the plans and choices so they could hit the ground running once the house build was complete. 

Starting the Build

With COVID restrictions coming to an end alongside the home’s build finishing, the landscaping could finally begin. Everything needed to be installed or built from scratch, but this presented an opportunity to create a truly bespoke yard for Kelvin and Jess. 

Over the next five weeks, the team whipped the landscape into shape. Timber fences were erected; classic paling on two sides and black horizontal decking timber fencing at the front boundary. Next came the readylawn, paver pathways surrounded by white chip stone, and retaining walls and planters. The final cost for the landscape came in under the preferred budget at $96,201.