We were joined by renowned Australian landscape designer, Paul Bangay, to celebrate the release of his new book Stonefields Through the Seasons.
Stonefields is located halfway between Kyneton and Daylesford, and surrounded by some of Victoria’s finest wineries, quaintest farmers markets, richest dining experiences and most awe-inspiring views. Positioned at the top of a hill, looking down a valley, the winds here can be strong and the climate is hot and dry, a challenging starting point for what was to become a complex and beautiful country garden.
Paul bought Stonefields 16 years ago and today, the garden is mature and more beautiful than ever – from the vibrant autumn colours in the woodland and evocative dormancy of winter to the jubilant flowering of the crab apple in springtime and perpetual rich harvest of produce.
The conversation reflects upon the inspirations of Russell Page, whose collection of designs and drawings are now housed in the Garden Museum’s archive, weaving in the effect climate change is having on the plant palette of Australia.
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Paul Bangay
Bio »Paul Bangay
Widely regarded as the foremost garden designer in Australia today, Bangay’s clients include a roster of the most prominent figures in business and culture. His extensive list of projects span private and public commissions in Australia and New Zealand, as well as further afield in Europe, North America and the West Indies.
Bangay holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Horticulture) from the University of Melbourne. In 1994 he was granted a Melbourne Arts Centre travelling scholarship to further his study of landscape design in Europe and the Americas. He won the Mobil Pegasus Award for the best contribution to the Melbourne International Festival of the Arts (1989). In 2001 Bangay was awarded the Centenary Medal for his contribution to public design projects.