Comprehensive Landscape Concept Brief – Pool Integration, Retaining Wall Redevelopment & Outdoor Living Enhancements Project Overview The client is installing a new swimming pool, which has been formally approved. The goal is to redesign the surrounding landscape so that the pool integrates seamlessly with a naturalised retaining system, improved yard levels, and an upgraded outdoor living layout. The existing sandstone block retaining wall conflicts with the approved pool design and must be replaced. The brief requires a visually natural solution using sandstone boulders, along with fencing modifications and a compliant BBQ area that fits cohesively into the new landscape. 1. Pool Area Integration (Using the Exact Approved Location) The pool must remain exactly as positioned in the approved DA/site plan. The immediate goal is to create a cohesive landscape design that ensures: Smooth transitions between the pool deck and the new natural boulder retaining wall behind it. A visually appealing outlook from the pool looking uphill, which is one of the primary sightlines. The pool fence is to be relocated closer to the sun-bathing/pool house area to: Meet DA requirements (BBQ must be outside pool fencing). Create better functional zones. Open up a usable pocket on the right-hand side for the BBQ area. 2. Pool Fence Realignment (DA-Compliant) The BBQ is not permitted within the pool fenced area. The fence will be adjusted to run closer to the pergola/sun deck near the pool house. Fence realignment objectives: Maintain compliance. Create a north-facing BBQ pocket just outside the fence, closer to the house. Ensure smooth integration with the stonework, pathways, and pool circulation space. Designer should propose fence positioning that is functional, elegant, and cohesive with the terrain. 3. Retaining Wall Redevelopment – Natural Sandstone Boulder System The existing four-tier sandstone block retaining wall will be removed entirely. Replace with a naturalised sandstone boulder retaining design, featuring: Large boulders arranged in organic formations (not block-style walls). Terraced, informal levels that retain soil but look natural, not engineered. Planting pockets integrated throughout for shrubs, natives, and occasional small feature trees. Optional built-in central stone staircase or winding pathway leading from upper yard to pool. Design intent: The area should resemble a natural sandstone hillside with lush pockets of vegetation. The boulder wall must interact seamlessly with the pool edge, visually and structurally. 4. Reuse of Existing Sandstone Blocks (Secondary, Practical Use Only) The existing sandstone blocks will be recycled, but not used as a major visual feature. They may be repurposed: Along the back fence line, where a more formal retaining edge may be appropriate. To help raise and level the upper yard by up to 500 mm (final height to be assessed). To subtly improve grading and drainage where beneficial. These blocks are not part of the primary aesthetic; they are functional and used only where boulders are not suitable. 5. BBQ Area Integration The new BBQ area must sit outside the pool fence, as per DA conditions. Preferred location: Right-hand side of the pool. Tucked into the pocket created by the new fence alignment. Adjacent to the pergola/outdoor entertaining area. North-facing. The BBQ area should: Be sized appropriately for built-in or freestanding equipment. Blend with the natural boulder landscape (e.g., soft plantings, stone edging, informal screening). Feel practical, accessible, and visually integrated rather than detached or forced. 6. Grading & Yard Functionality The project should aim to improve flow and usability across the entire yard: Smooth transitions from: Alfresco/pergola → pool → natural boulder landscape → upper yard. Upper backyard to be moderately raised and properly levelled using recycled sandstone blocks where required. Retaining structures should: Solve the current conflict between the pool and the existing block wall. Reduce steep visual massing. Create a more organic, inviting slope with practical circulation. 7. Planting Direction The planting theme should emphasise: Native or water-wise species. Softening shrubs, grasses, and groundcovers. Strategic pockets of established feature plants or small trees. Layered planting to merge the pool area with the boulder slope naturally. Low-maintenance species that thrive in local conditions. Overall aesthetic: natural, lush, cohesive, low-maintenance, Australian native-inspired. 8. Required Deliverables Stage 1 – Concept Design Top-down concept plan including: Approved pool layout Revised fence alignment Natural boulder retaining configuration Pathway stair integration BBQ area location Grading concept and block reuse locations Preliminary planting zones Perspective render from key sightline: Standing beside the pool, looking up toward the retaining wall. Stage 2 – 3D Modelling (after concept approval) Full 3D model showing: Pool, fencing, boulder wall Levels and terracing BBQ integration Planting Lighting (optional) 9. Summary of Design Intent The vision is a natural, organic backyard environment where the pool feels integrated into the land, not imposed on it. Key outcomes: Replace the engineered block wall with a natural sandstone boulder landscape. Improve usability of the upper yard. Create a compliant and attractive outdoor BBQ zone. Adjust fencing for function and compliance. Produce a visually stunning outlook from the pool area toward the landscaped slope. I’m flexible on style and welcome your creative direction as long as the scheme feels cohesive and low-maintenance. Please share a brief outline of your approach and a couple of similar residential projects so I can see how you’ve blended gardens with outdoor living before.