A creative and beautifully laid out coastal garden with plants suited to the environment

When garden designer Elizabeth Ganguly retired to Pt Elliot, she used her professional experience, creativity and ingenuity to meet the challenge of establishing a garden in coastal conditions. Indigo Blue is just 400 metres from the sea and has superb views over farmland to the coast.

Resilient Australian native and Mediterranean species including succulents with interesting foliage, contrasting textures and bold architectural form were planted in generous groups to create striking combinations of foliage shapes and colours. Many plants have been clipped into spheres or flowing organic shapes typical of vegetation in coastal areas and the result is a spectacular and water efficient garden that fits beautifully into its surrounding landscape. Dotted throughout are pieces of sculpture suited to the coastal site and there are several features constructed from limestone rock by local stonemasons.

However, it was the Steam Ranger Cockle Train which passes the property that was the inspiration for the railway theme that makes the garden unique and adds a touch of fun! The main path to the house is bordered with sections of railway line, the garden shed is a re-purposed SA Rail goods’ van, and the adjacent chook house mimics its shape. Continuing the theme, there is a cute little round pill box-like structure that was once a rail-line phone box, old sleepers have been used to construct retaining walls, and signs including ‘Indigo Blue’ are replicas of railway station signs.

A ‘Gin Walk’ with juniper, citrus, cucumber and other botanicals used in making the classic G & T is another quirky feature, as is the beautiful bright blue mosaicked ‘sofa’.

A well-planned and innovative garden that will make you smile!

OPEN SUNDAY AND PUBLIC HOLIDAY MONDAY