Sustainable Gardens - John French Landscape Design
Eco-Friendly

Sustainable Gardens

Create eco-friendly gardens that work with nature. Water-wise design, native plants, and sustainable practices for environmentally conscious homeowners.

From $2,500 per project
5.0 (50+ Reviews)
25+ Years Experience
500+ Gardens Created
Multiple Award Winner

What's Included

  • Water-wise design principles
  • Native and drought-tolerant plants
  • Rain garden and swale design
  • Sustainable material selection
  • Habitat creation for wildlife
  • Organic maintenance recommendations
  • Reduced irrigation requirements
  • Carbon-conscious plant selection

Designing for a Sustainable Future

Climate change is making sustainable garden design more important than ever. Melbourne’s changing rainfall patterns and water restrictions mean we need gardens that work with nature, not against it. But sustainable gardens aren’t just practical – they can be every bit as beautiful as traditional gardens.

Our Sustainable Design Principles

Water-Wise Design

Water is precious. Our sustainable designs:

  • Select plants suited to Melbourne’s rainfall patterns
  • Group plants by water needs (hydrozoning)
  • Minimise lawn areas or use drought-tolerant alternatives
  • Design efficient irrigation systems
  • Capture and use rainwater where possible

Working with the Site

Instead of fighting your site’s conditions, we work with them:

  • Use rain gardens to manage stormwater naturally
  • Plant for natural drainage patterns
  • Select plants suited to your soil type
  • Work with existing slopes rather than against them

Sustainable Materials

The materials we specify matter:

  • Locally-sourced stone and timber
  • Recycled and reclaimed materials where appropriate
  • Permeable paving that allows water infiltration
  • Low-embodied-energy options

Habitat Creation

A sustainable garden supports local wildlife:

  • Native plants that provide food and shelter
  • Water sources for birds and insects
  • Habitat structures like log piles and rockeries
  • Avoiding pesticides and herbicides

The Benefits of Sustainable Gardens

Lower Water Bills

Water-wise gardens can reduce outdoor water usage by 50-70%. That’s good for the environment and your wallet.

Less Maintenance

Plants suited to local conditions are healthier and require less intervention. You’ll spend less time fighting pests and diseases.

Wildlife Value

Sustainable gardens support birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects. They become living ecosystems, not just decorations.

Future-Proofing

As climate conditions change, gardens designed with sustainability in mind will be more resilient and adaptable.

Sustainability Without Compromise

Sustainable design doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. Our sustainable gardens include:

  • Colourful, seasonally interesting planting
  • Quality hardscape and structures
  • Comfortable outdoor living spaces
  • All the elements of a beautiful garden

The difference is in the choices we make – choices that benefit both you and the environment.

Ready to create a beautiful, sustainable garden? Contact us to discuss how we can help.

Our Process

1

Sustainability Assessment

Evaluating your site's water use, soil health, and opportunities for sustainable improvement.

2

Water Strategy

Developing a water management plan including capture, storage, and efficient irrigation.

3

Sustainable Design

Creating a design that integrates sustainable practices with beautiful aesthetics.

4

Implementation Guide

Documentation including sustainable material sources and organic maintenance advice.

Our Work

Sustainable Gardens example 1Sustainable Gardens example 2Sustainable Gardens example 3
Questions

Sustainable FAQ

Common questions about our sustainable gardens service.

A well-designed sustainable garden can reduce water usage by 50-70% compared to a traditional garden, through appropriate plant selection, efficient irrigation, and water capture.

Not at all! Sustainable gardens can be as formal or relaxed as you like. Sustainability is about smart choices, not a particular aesthetic.

We specify recycled and locally-sourced materials where possible, including recycled timber, local stone, and permeable paving options that allow water infiltration.

Still have questions?

We're here to help. Get in touch for a free consultation.

Free consultations available

Ready to Discuss Sustainable?

Book a free consultation and let's create something beautiful together.

No Obligation Quote
25+ Years Experience
Award-Winning Designer