Business Details
18 Years
experience
Expert Landscape Designers Melbourne
Arcadia Sustainable Design has been crafting innovative outdoor spaces since 2008, combining ecological principles with functional design. Our founder Gary Shadforth brings extensive expertise in horticulture, environmental science and landscape architecture to every project. With formal qualifications from Burnley College and NMIT, Gary has cultivated a practice that bridges education, sustainability and practical design solutions. We specialise in transforming urban spaces into thriving ecosystems that support biodiversity while meeting client needs. Our approach integrates site-specific analysis with client aspirations to create gardens that require minimal maintenance yet deliver maximum impact.Through strategic partnerships with trusted contractors, we ensure seamless execution from concept to completion. Our portfolio demonstrates how even challenging spaces can become beautiful, productive landscapes. We prioritise sustainable material selection and water-efficient planting schemes tailored to local conditions. For schools, we develop educational 'Learn Scapes' that enhance curriculum delivery through outdoor learning environments. Our 3D visualisation tools help clients fully understand proposed designs before implementation. This combination of technical expertise and creative vision has established us as leaders in sustainable landscape design across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Services
Landscape Design
Sustainable Gardening
School Gardens
Garden Consultation
3D Landscape Perspectives
Native Gardens
Contemporary Gardens
Planting Plans
Construction Documentation
Maintenance Scheduling
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of horticultural education and design experience
- Our designs integrate proven sustainable practices reducing garden maintenance needs
- We provide tailored solutions for both residential and educational landscapes
- Our 3D visualisation tools ensure clear design communication before implementation
- We develop educational outdoor spaces enhancing school curriculum delivery
Associations and certifications
- Australian Institute of Landscape Designers & Managers
- Feature Plants Landscaping Victoria
Services
Landscape Design
Our landscape design service creates functional outdoor spaces tailored to your property and lifestyle. We combine ecological principles with aesthetic considerations to develop gardens that enhance property value while supporting local biodiversity. Our process includes site analysis, client consultation and detailed planning documentation.
Sustainable Gardening
Sustainable gardening solutions focus on low-maintenance landscapes requiring minimal water and resources. We design systems that naturally manage pests and promote healthy ecosystems while maintaining visual appeal. This approach reduces environmental impact while creating thriving outdoor spaces for families and wildlife.
School Gardens
Specialised school garden design transforms educational spaces into interactive learning environments. We create 'Learn Scapes' that support curriculum delivery across subjects while promoting environmental awareness. Our designs incorporate food gardens, habitat areas and outdoor classrooms that engage students in hands-on learning experiences.
3D Landscape Perspectives
3D visualisation tools help clients understand proposed designs before implementation. This technology shows spatial relationships and material choices in realistic contexts. It enables informed decision-making and ensures the final outcome matches client expectations through accurate digital representations.
Garden Consultation
Personalised garden consultations provide tailored solutions for specific landscape challenges. We assess site conditions, discuss client needs and offer practical recommendations for garden improvement. This service suits homeowners seeking expert guidance without full design documentation.
People
Gary Shadforth
Principal Designer
Gary combines science qualifications with horticultural expertise to create sustainable landscapes. With teaching experience at Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne, he specialises in educational garden design. His approach balances ecological principles with practical functionality for residential and school projects.
Questions
What areas do you service?
We operate across Melbourne metropolitan area and regional Victoria for landscape design projects.
Do you work on school garden projects?
Yes, we specialise in educational landscapes that support curriculum delivery through outdoor learning spaces.
What makes your designs sustainable?
We use water-efficient planting, recycled materials and create ecosystems that naturally manage pests and maintenance needs.
Can you help with small courtyard designs?
We specialise in maximising small spaces to create functional, attractive outdoor areas for urban properties.
Do you provide 3D design visualisations?
Yes, we use 3D technology to show realistic representations of proposed designs before implementation.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We incorporate client feedback at every stage from initial consultation to final design documentation.
Reviews (1)
Andrew Smith
Jan 07, 2019
Report
Ive been building gardens designed by Gary for over 10 years now. I continue to be impressed by Gary's ability to identify what a client is after and turn it into a design that is both functional and very appealing. When the plans are constructed Gary's design abilities really become obvious. The mastery use of curves and balance along with plant selection to create a fantastic garden that continues to get better as it grows. Clients are always impressed and very happy with the end results, they find Gary very easy to work with.
