Small Space, Big Impact

A Backyard Glow-Up That Defies Size

Welcome to a backyard where size takes a backseat, and creativity thrives. In this blog, we're showcasing the journey of a smaller backyard that underwent a colossal transformation, debunking the myth that size limits the creation of a stunning outdoor haven.

This particular project happens to be for the home of Sarita and Brodie Holland, and we had the pleasure of discussing with them how this previously under utilised space has become a backyard of joy and entertainment for their family.

“Instead of it just being a backyard with a pool and spa, it really looks like a work of art out there and I can’t stop admiring our yard from the windows. I can’t believe this is ours. We’ve wanted this for so long.”

— Sarita Holland

Your backyard renovation attracted enormous attention and you generously shared the journey with your followers. We’d love to hear the story of what led you to this home and this reno project?

We have been wanting a pool for the kids for the longest time and actually when I was pregnant with the twins, we had a house with a pool but we needed a bigger home. We have since lived in 3 houses, none of which had a pool and so for each home, we enquired about putting in a pool, but we were never sure how long we’d be in those homes.

It wasn’t until we purchased this house that we knew we’d be here for the long haul and that it was time to deliver on our promise to the kids. The yard is small, so we wanted to make the best use of the space we have - and a spa was a non negotiable! For me, there’s no point having a pool without a spa as with Melbourne weather, the spa will most likely be used more.

You tackled most of the house renovations and interiors yourself. Why did you choose to engage a landscape designer for the outdoor areas?

We have had pool guys come out for quotes in previous houses but all they really do is pop a pool in (no disrespect, they’re amazing at what they do) without thinking about the space so much and so I really wanted someone who knew how to tackle the small space we have and make use of every inch of yard.

A pool is a big investment as is landscaping, so in the scheme of things, the design fee is such a small financial commitment and truly the most important aspect of the project for us.

There is no way we could have come up with anything even remotely as beautiful and striking by ourselves and it really was love at first sight (we loved Mint's initial concept so much that we didn’t make a single change haha!!).

Instead of it just being a backyard with a pool and spa, it really looks like a work of art out there and I can’t stop admiring our yard from the windows. I can’t believe this is ours. We’ve wanted this for so long.

I had seen Mint all over social media and I was in awe of how beautiful the designs were. Seriously dreamy!!

Then our dear friends Jarrad and Michael (Real Dads) had their backyard designed by Mint and they spoke so highly of them so it was decision made.

“A pool is a big investment as is landscaping, so in the scheme of things, the design fee is such a small financial commitment and truly the most important aspect of the project for us.”

— Sarita Holland

What does it mean for you to be able to custom create your own indoors and outdoors with your family in mind?

I am not good at visualising, so I really needed someone to design and show me exactly how it was going to look. The renders were the best, as I knew exactly what we were in for, which made the whole process all the more exciting!

Were there any compromises you made to your own style to accommodate another family member’s requests?

I wanted it to be visually beautiful but also low maintenance and practical. I don’t think we made any compromises, and we were pleasantly surprised at what a great size pool Mint was able to fit into the space.

What were your non-negotiables for the home and backyard to include?

A spa was a non-negotiable, as Melbourne is cold most of the year, so I knew a spa would be utilized more than the pool. I also wanted a built-in BBQ area and some greenery to break up and soften all the stunning architectural concrete. I love all the curves and the cactus too. I really do feel like our backyard is like stepping into a resort! Gosh, it’s just perfect for us.

Is it important for you to use the outdoor space year-round?

So important, as it’s an expensive investment, so you want to be able to get the most out of the space. I want my kids to want to be outside, and now we have everything we need to make it a fun place for them and their friends to visit.

What advice would you give to someone looking to upgrade their outdoors?

Definitely get it designed professionally - I can’t imagine skipping this step! It’s a small cost when you take into account how much the overall project is costing and it’s without a doubt the most important step. Get lots of quotes for the pool and the landscaping - I didn’t go with the cheapest quote, although they were all within a very close price range. I went with who I felt cared the most and also it came down to who could give me a pool the quickest. I locked it all in by May and had a pool to swim and finished yard by November! So lucky.

And finally, what are you looking forward to most with your new pool and landscape?

Well for one, the kids have never been more popular with friends hahaha - we have 5-10 kids here everyday and I love it although geez, we are going through lots of snacks!! I love that the kids have this fun backyard to enjoy and when they’re bored. Instead of turning to devices, they spend literally hours mucking about (and sometimes, ok most of the time bickering and wrestling) in the pool.
It’s so lovely to be able to create memories all year round with the family!!

What advice would you give to someone looking to upgrade their garden?

Do your research on the desired look that you want to achieve and contact a designer that resonates with you. We had an idea about what we liked, however without engaging a professional, we would not be ending up with the finished product that MINT have designed for us. In fact, we would probably have ended up spending more time and money procrastinating on the multitude of materials and still be waiting for a pool next year.

You both seem very hands on with selecting materials and finishes as well as getting your hands dirty around the house. Is this something you enjoy doing?

We both enjoy being part of the process and don’t mind pitching in. It’s very rewarding when you’re working with great people to see a project come together.

A huge thank you to Sarita and Brodie for sharing their journey with us as we created this stunning outdoor oasis.

We're dedicated to crafting landscapes that inspire beauty and enhance outdoor experiences. A special shoutout to the ACM Outdoors team for their meticulous craftsmanship that brought this vision to life!

Instagram: Sarita Holland // @saritaholland

Instagram: Brodie Holland // @brodieholland

Instagram: ACM Outdoors // @ACMOutdoors

Photography by @SallyGoodallPhotography