Natural Habitats scoops six Golds at top landscaping awards

Landscape New Zealand’s Landscapes of Distinction Awards, held at Ellerslie Convention Centre on Friday 15 August, saw leading design, construct and maintenance company Natural Habitats walk away with six golds, one silver and the Best Residential Project award.

Best Residential Project, and winner of two golds in other categories, went to a home and garden in Takapuna. The project included a major transformation of the original 1948 home and, consequently, an equally major landscape change was required to reflect the new home design.

Lead designer Mark Read said the result shows how landscaping can change the sense of dimensions of a house, making a large building inviting and homely on a relatively small space.

“What was an awkward, small space is now a generous, balanced, contained garden courtyard that warmly greets visitors. Most importantly, this house now looks and feels like a home,” he said.

The luxury lodges at world-famous Cape Kidnappers Golf Course, also designed by Read, won two golds at Friday night’s awards.

“The Farm” as it’s now fondly known, is the new luxury lodge at Cape Kidnappers, an eight iron from the Cape Kidnappers golf course and short gannet flight from the renowned colony.

“Golf fanatics and visitors to Cape Kidnappers consistently leave in awe of the natural beauty of the landscape. This project was extremely fulfilling and we’ve had great feedback from people who have visited since completion,” said Mark.

The project included a significant environmental regeneration aspect. The planting of native species such as manuka and kanuka were supplemented by the introduction of a range of coastal natives. For ambience around the lodges, native grasses, wild flowers and wild lavender were used.

The swimming pool, also designed by Natural Habitats, showcases the stunning views out towards the sea (see photos) and is the signature piece of the project.

Natural Habitats’ own head office, once described as ‘the chicken coup’ by Natural Habitats’ founder, Graham Cleary, won gold and silver.

“We addressed the original boxy, industrial feel of the building with careful plant combinations, and a central twin water-feature arrival. This turned ‘the coup’ into a showpiece of design creativity - essentially what we’re all about.

“Clipped griselinia and corokia hedging provide the framework, creating a sense of space and arrival. The twin water-features and precisely designed stairs add drama to the visitor’s arrival.”

Cleary, one of only four remaining founders of 25 years was also awarded a "distinguished service award" and a very generous citation by ex Landscaping NZ President Chris Ballyntine.

Natural Habitats Awards in detail:

* Best Residential Project (Takapuna) - Premier
* Landscape Construction Over $40,000 Residential (Remuera) - Gold
* Landscape Design Over $40,000 Residential (Takapuna) - Gold
* Landscape Construction Over $40,000 Residential (Takapuna) - Gold
* Landscape Design Over $40,000 Commercial (Cape Kidnappers) - Gold
* Landscape Construction Over $40,000 Commercial (Cape Kidnappers) - Gold
* Landscape Design Over $40,000 Commercial (Natural Habitats Head Office) - Gold
* Landscape Construction Over $40,000 Commercial (Natural Habitats Head Office) - Silver