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A Christchurch Outdoor Space With Clean Lines and Lasting Calm
When Emma wanted a white brick house for her new build, but could not find ones white enough, she went against the grain and turned to paint to achieve the crispness she wanted. The result is a bright white exterior that instantly sets a calm foundation for the entire outdoor space.
To strengthen the architectural language, she designed large steel planter boxes and set them into the deck. The result creates strong lines and anchors the pool area with structure. Raised forms guide the eye through the garden & frames the timber decking without breaking the flow.
Planting With Purpose and Quiet Confidence
Although Emma describes the planting as a random collection of botanicals gathered along her landscaping journey, each plant has been placed with intention. The mix of perennials, grasses and greenery adds softness & brings movement into the space. Textures shift with the breeze and soften the clean edges of the brickwork and steel.
This balance between structure and softness is what gives the garden its Palm Springs feel, without being tied to any single style moment.
Decking That Connects the Outdoor Rooms
The two deck areas were built by Dave & wrap around the pool to link the zones together. By doing this, one continuous outdoor room has been created, where lounging, dining and sunbathing can flow naturally between spaces. It shows how strong design choices do not need to be loud or complicated. Clean lines and thoughtful materials can shape a space with ease.
Nothing about these outdoor rooms is tied to one trend. Emma and Dave have layered their choices to create harmony. Every piece has been selected for long term value, so the space will continue to feel good year after year.
Outdoor Furniture That Completes the Space
Emma chose a selection of pieces from Ico Traders & The Outdoor Edition collection, to complement the architecture & support the way they live outside.
Benson Outdoor Sofa
The Benson sofa anchors a main lounging area beside the copper outdoor shower. Its deep cushions and relaxed lines make it an easy place to settle into at any time of day.
Orere Sofa
The Orere sofa brings a light streamlined silhouette. It fits naturally between the house and pool and creates a quiet moment for reading or morning coffee.
Paloma Extendable Dining Table
The Paloma table gives the deck a generous dining area for every day meals and long summer evenings. Its clean surface reflects the linear language of the planter boxes and sits comfortably within the architecture.
Benmore Bench
The Benmore bench tucks neatly under the Paloma table or shifts along the planter edge when extra seats are needed. Its simple lines echo the steel detailing used throughout the space.
Coromandel Chairs
A pair of Coromandel chairs adds sculptural shape and easy portability. Their wire form works beautifully with the steel planters & keeps the palette calm.
Waipuna Side Tables
The Waipuna side table sits beside the lounge seating as a practical piece for coffee, books and sunblock. Its soft curved shape pairs well with the stronger architectural lines and brings a small moment of convenience into the outdoor room without drawing attention. It is one of those pieces that quietly enhances everyday living.
Vanilla Sun Umbrella
The Vanilla sun umbrella completes the palette with gentle shade, with the oversized scalloped edges lending a vintage vibe.
Layering That Brings Everything Together
The success of the garden lies in intentional layering:
- Architecture with the planter boxes shower & deck
- Furniture with strong shapes and simple silhouettes
- Planting with grasses and textured greens.
Together these layers create a complete outdoor space that feels balanced and effortless.
Made for NZ Conditions
Each furniture piece offers flexibility, so the space can shift between lounging and dining as needed. This versatility keeps the outdoor areas usable throughout the day and across seasons.
New Zealand’s climate demands durability. Our powdercoated stainless steel and aluminium ranges are built to perform in coastal air and seasonal change which means the pieces will continue to hold their quality through time.
Timeless Design Over Trend Chasing
This outdoor space does not follow a “summer 2025” trend or any seasonal theme. The design is thoughtful. Every decision from the painted brick to the steel planters to the furniture reflects an investment in longevity. Emma and Dave have created an outdoor area that is built to last and will continue to feel calm cohesive and welcoming for many years.
Contact Emma Johnston Landscape Architecture
If you are thinking about your own garden and would like to connect with Emma, you can get in touch by email: [email protected]
