Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show 2025
The garden draws inspiration from a nostalgic era, echoing the distinctive style of mid-century Australian residential homes. It captures the spirit of a time when proud homeowners dedicated their weekends to cultivating gardens that reflected personal pride and achievement. This vision is deeply rooted in my own family’s tradition of weekend gardening—a shared practice among many in our aging community, including those now living with Dementia and Alzheimer’s.
By honoring this legacy, the garden not only celebrates family heritage but also acknowledges the broader community affected by these challenging conditions. It aims to raise awareness and appreciation for the caregivers, families, and support networks who walk this journey alongside them.
We are privileged to partner with Dementia Australia, whose involvement brings meaning and credibility to our mission. Through the garden’s design and storytelling, we seek to engage visitors emotionally and intellectually, shedding light on the struggles faced by those impacted by Dementia.
The garden’s aesthetic is a unique blend of mid-century Palm Springs charm and distinctly Australian character. From the house façade to the carport, every element is crafted to evoke warmth, boldness, and welcome. A manicured lawn, winding pathways, and a cozy front porch draw guests in and set the tone for a space that feels both familiar and inspiring.
Adaptable design elements allow the garden to suit various home styles, while the plant palette harmonizes with architectural colors, infusing the space with vivid hues and seasonal interest. Nostalgic furniture and conversation-starting accents invite visitors to pause and reflect, fostering connection and dialogue.
At its heart, this garden is more than a tribute to the past—it’s a vibrant, living space that celebrates memory, community, and resilience. It serves as a call to recognize and support those affected by Dementia, ensuring their stories are seen, heard, and honored.
CONSTRUCTION
Adam Hompas Landscapes
This project simply wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of Adam Hompas and his incredible team. Adam and his crew have been deeply involved in every stage of the garden’s creation, generously donating their time and expertise. Their craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident in every aspect of the finished space, and they should all be immensely proud of what they’ve helped bring to life.
Jade Built Landscape Construction
Jade Built, a Brisbane-based landscape construction company, has generously contributed both consultancy and labor to the NOSTALGIA garden. Dylan has worked alongside Paul for over 20 years, building not only stunning gardens but a lasting friendship as well. We were also lucky to have Jade Built’s lead foreman, Josh Bolger, on-site for the event—his skill, leadership, and dedication were instrumental in completing the garden to such a high standard and on schedule.