The Queensland Garden

Surviving shrubbery, Paddington 1992 (Catherine Brouwer)

In thinking about what is appropriate in the garden of an old house, it is important that it should respect the period and style of the dwelling. At the same time, it should allow for contemporary expression of some garden ideas, and serve the constraints of the modern street and lifestyle.

Find out the history of the garden. Old photographs, local government records and real estate plans can provide valuable evidence. Early drainage plans sometimes show where paths or the bush-house lay.

You should also search the site for clues. The garden of an old house bought for restoration or renovation can appear to be completely run down. Look at what plants remain. The house might have a vernacular "cottage garden" established in a simple honest way with limited means.

Remnant garden, Paddington 1992 (Catherine Brouwer)

This style of garden may no longer be appropriate when the front of the house and the fence are restored. Learn about the varieties of plants that are most suitable for the particular period and style of house and garden. Look at specimens in unaltered gardens throughout the older suburbs.

An old split rail fence, once common in Brisbane gardens, might be restored or allowed to age slowly, adding to the garden's traditional charms.