A Life Outside with Fran Hale of Peachy Green

With Spring on our doorstep, we’re gearing up for longer days, warmer nights and more time spent in the great outdoors. We caught up with landscape designer Fran Hale to hear her thoughts on architecture and design, Melbourne, sustainability and more…

Why did you pursue a career that enables A Life Outside?

Making gardens allows the blissful combination of art, design and nature. I grew up with an appreciation for the bush and plants and trees. Being outside, working with nature, and creating beautiful gardens is both immensely fun and rewarding.

How do you create a dialogue between your landscape design projects and the architecture/interiors they share space with?

We believe that the garden should be an extension of the house, seamlessly blending with the architecture and interiors. Our process involves collaboration with our clients and architects to understand their vision and aesthetic. We draw inspiration from existing materials on-site, such as patterns in the brick or textured stucco, and reflect these elements through our design. We aim to treat every window like a picture frame to the garden, creating lush green views.

How has moving to Australia (from New Zealand), and Melbourne in particular, shaped your approach to landscape design?

The vibrant Melbourne design culture and emphasis on sustainability has really influenced my approach to landscape design, and the unique native flora is a big part of our inspiration. The collaborative spirit among Melbourne’s design community has allowed us to learn and work alongside amazing creative architects and designers – it’s a city that loves design and loves gardens.

What does sustainability mean to you?

Sustainability means creating robust landscapes that last and age gracefully. We prioritise using natural, local materials such as stone and timber and select plant species that are water-sensitive and hardy. Improving soil health through composted organic matter and mulches, as well as harvesting water for irrigation are components of our sustainable practices. It’s about fostering environments that thrive naturally and contribute positively.

Could you share your process and criteria when selecting outdoor furniture for a project?

We focus on durability, functionality, and aesthetic beauty, shape and form. We choose materials that withstand the elements and age beautifully, such as sustainably sourced timber and weather-resistant metals. Comfort and usability are key, ensuring that the furniture enhances the outdoor living experience. We love a pop of colour and fun a great accent piece can bring to a garden.

Fran Hale of Peachy Green. Photography by Amelia Stanwix

Quick 6

Most inspiring garden/landscape design project?
Kröller-Müller Museum – Netherlands

Favourite regular outdoor hangout?
Yarra Bend Park river walks.

Favourite outdoor sculpture/piece of art?
The Field by Luciano Giubbilei

Must-see Australian landscape?
Purnululu National Park – the Bungle Bungles

What you love about A Life Outside?
A Life Outside allows for connection with nature. The opportunity to both feel grounded, and marvel at the wonders of the natural world.

Favourite Tait piece?
Trace Sunlounge for its simple form, clean lines, soft curves, cushy comfort… and what is better than catching some sun?

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Published 29 August 2024
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