Specialists In Swimming Pools & Landscape Designs On Slopes & Large Acreage Blocks
Landscape Design +
Project Management
At PARC Concepts, we specialise in luxury pool landscaping and tailored outdoor design in Newcastle. We create premium outdoor environments, even for the most challenging blocks, heritage properties, or strict R5 zoning homes. Our team provides creative solutions for limited possibilities, addressing the unique challenges of properties across the City of Newcastle.
We have extensive experience designing for specific issues, whether you have a sloped or odd-shaped lot in suburbs like Adamstown Heights and The Hill, or need to navigate mine subsidence guidelines and coastal erosion in Merewether, Bar Beach, and Stockton.
We deliver custom landscape and pool designs built for your lifestyle and property needs that respect the historical character of heritage conservation areas like Hamilton and Cooks Hill, while still delivering a modern, functional outdoor space. We ensure a seamless process from concept to reality that is perfectly planned to suit your specific site, regardless of the challenge.
Why Choose PARC Concepts Landscape Design in Newcastle NSW?
Whether you're building a brand-new home, undertaking a full renovation, or planning a knockdown rebuild, our expertise ensures a seamless process from the start. We handle complex site conditions every day, transforming difficult terrain and regulations into standout features for your home. We work with you to create a fluid and functional connection between your indoor and outdoor lifestyle, helping to determine the best location for your pool and designing an outdoor living space that is both functional and cohesive.
Our solutions go beyond just aesthetics. We focus on fixing key issues like drainage while getting the most out of your investment with a landscape that is both beautiful and functional. Our experience with Newcastle’s unique regulations and neighborhoods means your project gets local expertise and compliance built-in from the start. Our forward-thinking designs are also perfect for families, with a focus on succession planning to ensure your outdoor space grows with you and your kids.
We create landscapes that are built for how you live and entertain. From a low-maintenance yet impressive front garden to accommodating regular entertainment, we ensure your outdoor space perfectly fits your needs. We also consider long-term accessibility to create better access for retirement lives. Ultimately, we craft signature features with your personality and characteristics at the core of every design.
Our Services
Landscape Design
From concept to completion, we create master-planned gardens and tailored outdoor spaces for all property types across Newcastle NSW. We bring together vision, structure, and practicality to transform your site, mastering the unique challenges of smaller blocks and tight access in suburbs like The Junction and Wickham. Whether you're building a new home, renovating, or doing a knockdown rebuild, our expertise ensures a seamless process from start to finish.
Pool Landscape Design
We provide integrated pool landscape design for all property types, specialising in creating cohesive designs that elevate your surroundings. Our solutions ensure your pool area feels like a natural extension of your home, perfectly suited to your lifestyle and property needs, especially in high-end coastal suburbs like Dudley and Merewether.
Acreage & Large Garden Design
Our expertise includes layered, functional gardens for estates and large homes. We provide thoughtful low-maintenance planting schemes and tailored zoning to create beautiful and manageable outdoor environments on a grand scale, particularly in suburbs with spacious lots like New Lambton Heights and Rankin Park
Sloped Block Landscape Design
We specialise in innovative landscape solutions for sloped blocks, featuring sophisticated drainage and elegant structural integration. Our designs turn challenging terrain in suburbs like Adamstown Heights and The Hill into a standout feature of your home.
Garden Room Design
We craft private retreats and custom garden rooms that become natural extensions of your home. We design and build tranquil, bespoke spaces for a range of uses—from secluded studios and home offices to multi-purpose family areas—in suburbs like Maryville and Tighes Hill.
Outdoor Amenities
We design and integrate a wide range of specific amenities to create dynamic, year-round living spaces. Our expertise includes building and installing features like outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, basketball courts, and tennis courts for clients in suburbs with spacious blocks and a strong family focus like Lambton and Garden Suburb, as well as high-end urban spaces in Kotara, and Islington.
Commercial Landscaping
We create striking outdoor environments and compliance-ready plans for a range of commercial projects, including hospitality, education, and public spaces. Our expertise includes designing and building engaging, safe, and imaginative outdoor spaces for new childcare centres in high-growth suburbs like Fletcher and Minmi, as well as crafting beautiful, resilient designs for hotels and holiday accommodations in high-end coastal areas like Newcastle East and Newcastle Beach.
Service Areas in Newcastle NSW
From the prestigious coastal properties of Merewether and Dudley to the vibrant, high-end family neighborhoods of The Hill and Garden Suburb, we have a deep understanding of the unique landscape challenges across the City of Newcastle. We deliver prompt, locally-informed landscaping for a wide range of properties, including the spacious estates in New Lambton Heights and Rankin Park, and the luxury urban precincts of Honeysuckle and The Junction. Our expertise also extends to the leafy streets of Kotara, Lambton, and New Lambton, and the evolving inner-city hubs of Wickham, Maryville, Islington, and Tighes Hill. Whether you live in a coastal home in Newcastle East, Newcastle Beach, or Stockton, or a hilly property in Adamstown Heights, our designs are tailored for your specific block, style, and council requirements.
Locations
Merewether NSW
Dudley NSW
Adamstown Heights NSW
New Lambton NSW
Stockton NSW
Charlestown NSW
Wickham NSW
Fletcher NSW
Call Us: +61 0467 826 678
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Email: beyondcontentment@parcconcepts.com.au
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Business Hours
Mon - Fri
7:30 am – 4:00 pm
Newcastle Landscape Design FAQ
Can you design pools on sloped blocks in Newcastle?
Yes, we absolutely can. Designing pools on sloped or challenging sites is one of our key specialities. We use proven structural methods, innovative retaining wall systems, and creative solutions to seamlessly integrate a pool into the natural terrain. Our designs are not just functional; they turn a difficult block in suburbs like Adamstown Heights, The Hill, and New Lambton Heights into a stunning feature of your home, ensuring both compliance and a beautiful result.
What approvals do I need for landscape projects in Newcastle NSW?
Navigating the approvals process can be complex, but we handle it all for you as part of our service. Depending on the scope of your project, you may need to submit a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) to the City of Newcastle council.
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This is typically required for larger projects and specific features such as a new pool, spa or swim spa, pergola, deck, or the construction of a permanent outdoor kitchen or fireplace. It can also apply to projects that involve significant earthworks, new fencing, a driveway, or large hard pave areas. Our team has a deep understanding of local council requirements and will guide you through every step, ensuring all permits and regulations are handled seamlessly to save you time and stress.
How long does a typical outdoor transformation take?
Project timelines can vary significantly depending on the scope and complexity. For a smaller project, such as a low-maintenance front yard with a "wow" factor, the entire process from consultation to completion typically takes 2–4 weeks.
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For a full-scale outdoor transformation that includes a pool and a comprehensive entertaining area, the timeline is generally between 12–18 weeks. To ensure complete transparency and peace of mind, we provide a detailed project chart that tracks every stage of your project, from initial concepts and DA & authority approvals through to final project management.
​How does PARC Concepts address heritage or R5 zoning constraints in Newcastle?
Addressing heritage overlays and navigating complex zoning is a cornerstone of our design process. For heritage properties, we thoroughly research the architectural characteristics and style of your home, combining that with your personal vision and lifestyle to create a tailored design. Our team has extensive experience working with the City of Newcastle council's specific regulations, including the Newcastle Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and the Development Control Plan (DCP).
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For properties in R5 Large Lot Residential zoning, we conduct a detailed analysis of the building envelope, bushfire zone, flood zone, and other site limitations as a guide for our design process.
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We don't see these regulations as limitations, but as a framework for creative, compliant design. We work to maximise your site's potential by selecting materials and developing solutions that respect the character of your property while seamlessly integrating your new landscape. We are experts in creating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces in precincts like The Hill, Cooks Hill, and Hamilton, where preserving heritage is paramount.
​Can you create custom outdoor living zones and amenities?
Absolutely. Creating tailored outdoor living zones is a key part of our expertise. We don't just install features; we design functional, year-round living spaces that perfectly suit your lifestyle and extend the comfort of your home.
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Whether you're looking to create a space for effortless outdoor entertaining with a built-in outdoor kitchen and fireplace, or a tranquil retreat with a custom spa and swim spa, your landscape plan can be tailored for diverse outdoor living. We also design bespoke recreational areas, from basketball courts and tennis courts to unique garden rooms and pergolas.
What should I expect from a landscape designer in Newcastle NSW?
A professional landscape designer brings a perfect balance of vision, structure, and practicality to your outdoor space. You can expect us to understand your site conditions, lifestyle, and long-term goals from the very first consultation. We translate your ideas into a detailed plan that balances aesthetics with function, ensuring a seamless process from concept to completion. We connect you with trusted local service providers and provide a design that is a perfect balance of creativity, clarity, and compliance, making it uniquely yours and perfectly suited for your Newcastle home.
What does a landscape designer in Newcastle NSW do?
A landscape designer in Newcastle NSW blends creativity with technical expertise to craft outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and functional. Our team considers everything from site levels, soil, drainage, and sustainability, and we are experts in complex solutions like retaining wall design. We also carefully select planting palettes to suit your specific microclimate. Whether you’re after a low-maintenance pool landscape design, slope-friendly solutions, or a full backyard transformation, our role is to guide you through every step so the end result is cohesive and enduring. We manage all compliance requirements for a smooth process.
Do I need to hire a landscape designer in Newcastle NSW?
Yes, hiring a professional landscape designer is the most effective way to guarantee a successful outcome for your project. A designer provides the comprehensive plan needed to do it right, do it once, saving you from costly mistakes down the track.
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More specifically, many new residential estates require a qualified landscape designer to produce a landscape design for their new homes and renovations. Likewise, the City of Newcastle council requires a professional to specify a landscape design plan for certain properties, including those with bush fire prone, flood zone, heritage, and mine subsidence classifications. This applies to both single and multi-residential and commercial developments.
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Beyond compliance, a professionally designed landscape is a key investment that significantly boosts your property's value. A designer ensures the right plants and materials are chosen for your site, which helps to avoid costly mistakes and provides an efficient staging of your project with a solid plan from start to finish.
What should I budget for landscaping in Newcastle NSW?
Budgets for landscaping in Newcastle NSW vary significantly depending on the scope, size, and materials. A small courtyard makeover may be achievable for a modest sum, while large-scale works such as a swimming pool landscape design or integrated retaining walls can run into the tens of thousands.
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It's important to understand that a total landscaping budget includes more than just the physical construction. It consists of the professional landscape design and planning budget, followed by authority approvals fees and applications to bodies such as the City of Newcastle Council, Hunter Water, the NSW Rural Fire Service, and Subsidence Advisory NSW. You also need to account for professional consultants like a Surveyor, GeoTech classification report, Structural engineer, and Bush Fire Consultant, Certifier etc which all contribute to the final building and construction cost.
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We recommend starting with a clear budget range so we can design within realistic parameters. Our approach is always to balance your vision with practical, cost-effective solutions.
What is the best time of year to do landscaping in Newcastle NSW?
Autumn and spring are generally ideal for planting and construction due to milder weather. That said, with Newcastle's temperate climate, we design and build year-round, tailoring our project timelines to the seasons. If you're planning a project like a swimming pool landscape design to show off your swimming skills by Christmas, the planning and design process should begin in late summer or early autumn. This timeframe is essential as it allows for a couple of months to develop a concept design that you'll absolutely love. It also provides enough time to produce all of the necessary documentation for authority approval applications, and then a few months for the assessment of your plans and gaining formal approval. Finally, the approved plans will be quoted by a builder and a contract signed before construction can commence. And remember, most desirable builders are booked well in advance. This strategic approach ensures ample time for planning, approvals, and construction, so your new outdoor space is ready to be enjoyed when you want it.
How to choose a landscape designer in Newcastle NSW?
When choosing a landscape designer, look for a professional who brings a perfect balance of vision, structure, and practicality to your project. They should take the time to understand your lifestyle and long-term goals, not just your site's physical conditions. Review their portfolio for projects that reflect your aesthetic, whether you're drawn to a low-maintenance garden, natural rock retaining wall ideas, or a modern swimming pool wall design.
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A top-tier designer must possess expert, locally-informed knowledge of Newcastle's unique challenges. This includes extensive experience with sloping blocks and the complex compliance requirements for sites with bushfire, flood zone, heritage, and mine subsidence classifications. They should be experts at navigating specific approvals with the City of Newcastle Council, the NSW Rural Fire Service, and Subsidence Advisory NSW.
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Ultimately, a great landscape designer ensures your project is more than just beautiful. They create a plan that balances aesthetics with function and is uniquely suited for your home. By handling every detail, from initial planting palettes to selecting the right professional consultants and managing the entire project, they guarantee your investment is handled with the highest level of care, so you do it right, do it once.
Do you offer landscape design services in Newcastle NSW?
Yes, Parc Concepts is based locally and proudly serves the entire Newcastle region and beyond. We offer expert landscape design across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens, and the Hunter Valley, providing tailored solutions for the unique character of each area.
Whether you're looking for intimate courtyard design ideas and poolside designs in urban and suburban areas, or require large acreage landscape design for rural estates and vineyards, we have a deep understanding of the local landscape. Our team specializes in solving complex problems for our clients, including sloped backyards and other challenging locations, ensuring your final space is both practical and inspiring.
Can you help with pool landscape design in Newcastle NSW?
Absolutely. Pool landscape design is one of our key specialties in Newcastle NSW, and our service is a complete project management solution. We handle every detail, starting with helping you find the best location for the pool and determining the ideal size and shape of the pool with your lifestyle and block in mind. We also help you select the most suitable type of pool, whether it's a fibreglass, pre-cast concrete, situ concrete, plunge pool, container pool, or a swim spa.
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Our expertise is crucial for navigating the complex challenges of designing on sloping blocks in suburbs like Merewether, Dudley, and Adamstown Heights, or for properties in bushfire zones or with heritage overlays. We provide low-maintenance pool landscape design solutions that factor in safety, privacy, planting, and long-term durability. For a situ concrete pool, we design the steps and depth with your needs in mind.
We ensure a seamless process by handling all the necessities, from the pump and filter location to accessories like an in-ground blanket box, skimmer box, and dedicated storage for pool toys. We also help determine the best way to fence the pool with flow and connectivity to your home and to ensure the best view line from both inside and out.
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Whether you're after small backyard pool design ideas or a complete swimming pool garden design, we manage the entire project, ensuring all specialist consultants and approvals are handled. The final touches, from finishes like mosaic and pebblecrete with waterline tiles to the selection of coping and paving—are all considered to create a space that is both functional and inviting.