Hilltop Retreat

At Growing Rooms, we love designing outdoor spaces that feel like an escape – and this Bellevue Hill hilltop retreat is the perfect example. Elevated above Rose Bay and Double Bay, this garden was designed to take full advantage of the spectacular views while creating a private sanctuary for everyday living.

We worked closely with our clients to craft a landscape that blends seamlessly with the home’s architecture by Luigi Rosselli Architects. The result is a series of functional outdoor zones – from a resort-style pool area to lush green terraces – all designed to flow naturally with the hillside setting.

Designing for Bellevue Hill’s Unique Landscape

Bellevue Hill is known for its sweeping harbour views and steep terrain, which require thoughtful planning. Our design balances structure and softness – integrating natural stone, architectural planting, and carefully designed retaining walls that bring stability without compromising style.

By layering greenery with elegant paving, we created a modern yet timeless look that complements the coastal lifestyle of nearby Rose Bay and Double Bay.

Rear Garden – Screening, Layers & a Cosy Fireplace

This hilltop retreat is all about creating a space to unwind. In the pool zone, the Growing Rooms Landscapes & Pools team installed ‘Slender Weaver’ bamboo along the boundary to provide both privacy and softness. In front of the bamboo, diverse layered planting introduces shades of blue, green, and grey that connect each garden bed and level change, ensuring a seamless visual flow across the property.

The outdoor dining and entertaining spaces are positioned to capture cooling breezes and breathtaking views.

Sandstone steps guide you down to a sunken fireplace area – a secluded, cosy spot perfect for family gatherings or relaxed evenings with friends. Framed by lush greenery and overlooking harbour views, this retreat feels like a private sanctuary high above the bustle of the Eastern Suburbs.

Front Garden – A Tropical Welcome

The front garden tells a different story. With lower light levels, we embraced shade-loving tropicals to create a striking entrance experience. Acer palmatum brings fine texture and seasonal colour, contrasting beautifully with the bold leaves of Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’ and Philodendron ‘Rojo Congo’. As you open the front door, this layered composition provides an immediate focal point – setting the tone for the home beyond.

A Retreat Brought to Life

From initial concept through to construction and final planting, we handled every detail of this transformation — the layered gardens, sandstone steps, tropical entrances, and private entertaining zones — to create a cohesive, liveable retreat that reflects both the home and its spectacular Bellevue Hill location, built to the highest standard so it will flourish for years to come.