Two Rocks Coastal Transformation
From Sand Dune to Magazine-Worthy Outdoor Living
Project Overview
This Two Rocks project began with a newly purchased coastal home sitting on a typical sand dune block – minimal usable yard space, failing retaining walls and challenging site conditions.
Our brief was simple yet impactful: transform the property into a functional, welcoming outdoor environment that felt like home and made the most of every square metre.
The Client Brief
Our client wanted a space to wander, relax in and truly enjoy. The existing yard in the home felt unusable and disconnected.
She envisioned a cohesive outdoor setting that was practical, designed for coastal living and aesthetically refined. The space needed to feel intentional, inviting and layered, rather than simply finished.
The Challenges
Like many coastal properties in Two Rocks and greater Perth, the block presented significant constraints:
- Built on a sand dune-based block
- Failing panel and post retaining walls
- Large volumes of exposed cap rock
- Multiple level changes requiring engineered retaining
- Wind-exposed location impacting plant and reticulation choices
- Council approvals required for multi-level retaining
- Limited and hilly site access
More than 150 cubic metres of sand and rock needed to be removed from site. Extensive rock breaking was required using a 10-tonne excavator and breaker – which was a week-long process that tested both machinery and patience.
Scope of Works
This was a complete outdoor rebuild, delivering in a carefully staged approach.
Site Preparation & Structural Works
Site works formed the foundation of the entire transformation. The first priority was remediation and structural stability:
- Removal of old pavers and failing retaining walls
- Excavation and removal of cap rock
- Installation of substantial limestone retaining walls across multiple levels
- Council approval management for engineered retaining
Outdoor Living & Functional Zones
Every element was integrated to create flow between zones. Once structural works were complete, we progressed to creating functional lifestyle areas:
- Construction of new decking to the alfresco
- Installation of a full reticulation system tailored to coastal wind exposure
- Paving installation
- Pergola construction
- Privacy screening for the outdoor shower
- Garden lighting installation
Project management of electrical and plumbing trades
Planting & Softscaping
Plant selection was carefully curated for coastal durability and client preference. All species were specifically sourced to withstand wind, sandy soils and salt exposure while still delivering softness and visual impact.
We also:
- Removed existing lawn
- Re-prepared subgrade
- Installed new lawn suited to the environment
- Installed edging and final detailing
Timeline & Workflow
The project commenced in May with council approvals and initial planning.
Given the scale of the excavation, retaining and site preparation required, heavy machinery was brought in early to manage the structural works. Once levels were established and retaining completed, we progressed into decking, services coordination, paving, planting and finishes.
Summer heat and coastal conditions required careful scheduling and workflow management. From the initial site visit and approvals through to completion and handover, the rear transformation took approximately eight months.
Following the completion of the backyard, we moved to the front yard. While smaller in scale, this phase still required:
- Working around existing septic systems
- Addressing site levels
- Additional retaining installation
The Transformation
What was once an exposed sand dune block is now a layered, structured and highly usable outdoor living space. The finished result delivers:
- Defined entertaining zones
- Seamless indoor-outdoor connection
- Privacy where needed
- Structured retaining that maximises flat, functional space
- Coastal-appropriate planting to soften hardscape elements
- Integrated lighting and irrigation for long term performance
The client described the finished result as “like walking into a magazine” – yet crucially, it’s not only visually impressive. It is practical, user friendly and built to last in demanding coastal conditions for many years.
Added Value
Beyond lifestyle improvements, this transformation aiding in increasing the property’s market appeal. Well-designed landscaping can influence resale value, particularly in coastal suburbs like Two Rocks where usable outdoor space is highly desirable.
This project demonstrates how thoughtful landscape construction can completely reshape both the functionality and value of a home.
Considering A Transformation of Your Own?
If you’ve purchased a new home on a challenging block or your existing outdoor space feels underutilised, we can help you reimagine what’s possible.
Kinetic Landscaping specialises in high quality landscape construction across Perth’s northern suburbs, including coastal areas where expertise is paramount.
If you’d like to discuss your landscaping vision, get in touch with our specialist team to book a consultation today!