PTA LANDSCAPES UNVEILS IT’S LATEST LANDSCAPE TRANSFORMATION
04 Oct 2023
As part of its ongoing collaboration with the Australian International Academy of Education and in honor of the institution's 40th anniversary, PTA Landscapes undertook a pivotal project: the transformation of the Melbourne Senior Campus's school entry and frontage landscape in North Coburg.
The existing landscape had grown weary, characterised by uneven 1980s-style clay brick pavements, aging entry stairs, outdated furnishings and neglected garden beds.
PTA Landscapes design approach centered around redefining the entry experience to infuse grandeur and elegance and revitalise the school's identity. With a goal to create an unmistakable sense of arrival, making every visitor feel welcome. To achieve this, the team embarked on several key design initiatives. The locally crafted wrought iron gates, flanked by new rendered brick entry pillars, now stand as the guardians of the school's identity. The welcoming pavements, meticulously laid with tumbled bluestone slimline bricks in a herringbone pattern, set the stage for what lies beyond. 
While PTA Landscapes embarked on a comprehensive transformation, the team remained mindful of preserving elements that held historical or ecological significance. The original school front fencing was retained, along with an established native eucalyptus tree.
Every material and technique PTA Landscapes employed was thoughtfully chosen to align with the school's vision. The locally crafted wrought iron gates, a product of skilled artisans, not only provide security but also serve as a striking visual centerpiece. Bluestone pavers, renowned for their timeless appeal and durability, now grace the entry stairs, accompanied by gold anodized stair nosings and brass tactiles, ensuring both safety and elegance. The building's patio, a focal point of the project, was adorned with handmade Lamara Encaustic tiles, complemented by an Australian Bluestone border, resulting in a timeless and classic aesthetic that seamlessly integrates with the building's historical character.
Careful consideration was given to the selection of plant varieties, with an emphasis on creating a landscape that thrives throughout the year. Pyrus Calleryana, Malus yunnanensis Sychwood Ruby, and Acer x freemanii Autumn Blaze were chosen not only for their vibrant seasonal colors but also for their shade-providing properties. These trees set the stage for a vibrant underplanting that includes Hebe inspiration, Doryanthes excelsa, Agapanthus Blue, Ficinia nodosa, Orthrosanthus multiflorus, Gaura Pink, Limonium prezezii, and Lomandra lonifolia 'Tanika,' adding texture and colour across the seasons. 
The revitalised landscape has transformed the school's street appeal, reflecting its commitment to excellence. Visitors now experience a welcoming entry that embodies the school's values.
PTA Landscapes' meticulous work at the Melbourne Senior Campus celebrates the school's history while creating a vibrant and inviting frontage for its 40th anniversary, a testament to the power of thoughtful landscaping. 
Contact the PTA Landscapes team via the links below to get them involved in your next project.
