Business Details
18 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Landscape Design Solutions in Melbourne
Arcadia Sustainable Design, established in 2008, is a Melbourne-based landscape design practice led by Gary Shadforth. With a science degree and diplomas in horticulture and applied design, Gary combines decades of experience in environmental science education, horticulture, and sustainable design. The business specialises in creating functional, eco-friendly outdoor spaces for residential and educational clients, prioritising low-maintenance gardens that enhance biodiversity and property value. Services include tailored landscape plans, 3D perspectives, school garden development, and sustainable material selection. Arcadia collaborates with trusted contractors to ensure designs are executed precisely, offering end-to-end project management.The teams expertise extends to indigenous gardens, contemporary designs, and child-friendly spaces, reflecting a commitment to innovation and ecological balance. Client consultations focus on understanding individual needs, site analysis, and budget considerations. Projects range from urban courtyards to large-scale school Learn Scapes, integrating curriculum-aligned outdoor learning environments. Arcadias work has transformed neglected spaces into thriving gardens, as evidenced by its portfolio of before-and-after case studies. The practice remains dedicated to advancing sustainable landscaping through education, community engagement, and practical, resource-efficient solutions.
Services
Landscape Design
Sustainable Gardening
School Gardens
3D Perspectives
Council Plans
Garden Consultation
Native Planting
Courtyard Design
Plant Reports
Maintenance Schedules
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- Gary Shadforth holds a science degree and diplomas in horticulture and applied design with 20+ years in sustainable landscaping
- Specialise in low-maintenance, water-efficient gardens that support local biodiversity
- Offer end-to-end project management from consultation to construction coordination
- Pioneers in educational 'Learn Scapes' integrating school curricula with outdoor learning
- Proven track record transforming neglected spaces into award-winning gardens
Associations and certifications
- Australian Institute of Landscape Designers & Managers
- Feature Plants Landscaping Victoria
Services
Landscape Design
Arcadia creates custom landscape designs tailored to client needs and site conditions. Services include site analysis, concept plans, and detailed construction drawings. Projects integrate sustainable practices to ensure ecological balance and long-term usability.
Sustainable Gardening
Specialist sustainable garden solutions focus on water efficiency, native plants, and low-maintenance designs. Services include material selection, biodiversity planning, and resource-conscious layouts. Ensures gardens thrive with minimal environmental impact while supporting local wildlife habitats.
School Gardens
Designs curriculum-aligned outdoor learning spaces for schools. Services include 'Learn Scapes' with food gardens, frog bogs, and outdoor classrooms. Integrates pedagogical goals with functional, engaging environments that enhance student learning and environmental awareness.
3D Landscape Perspectives
Provides 3D visualisations to showcase design concepts before implementation. Helps clients understand spatial relationships and material choices. Enhances council approval processes and ensures clear communication of design intent for residential and commercial projects.
Garden Consultation
Offers expert guidance on garden improvements, plant selection, and layout optimisation. Includes site visits, soil assessments, and tailored recommendations. Designed for homeowners seeking to rejuvenate tired spaces or create functional outdoor living areas.
People
Gary Shadforth
Landscape Designer & Owner
Gary combines a science degree with diplomas in horticulture and applied design. With 20+ years in sustainable landscaping and education, he specialises in transforming spaces into functional, eco-friendly gardens. His expertise spans indigenous planting, school grounds, and contemporary designs.
Questions
What landscape design services do you offer?
We provide full-service landscape design including site analysis, concept plans, 3D visualisations, and construction documentation for residential and educational clients.
How do you incorporate sustainability into gardens?
We prioritise native plants, water-efficient systems, recycled materials, and designs that support local biodiversity while minimising maintenance requirements.
Can you design gardens for schools?
Yes, we create educational 'Learn Scapes' integrating curriculum-aligned features like food gardens, outdoor classrooms, and wildlife habitats for primary and secondary schools.
What is your design process?
Our process includes consultation, site analysis, concept development, detailed planning, and optional construction coordination with trusted contractors.
Do you service regional Victoria?
Yes, while based in Melbourne, we offer design services across metropolitan and regional Victoria for residential, commercial, and educational projects.
Reviews (1)
Andrew Smith
Jan 19, 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.
