Chic Retreat
Sustainable Luxury Accommodation Experience
In August 2024, I met with Sarah and Darren Linton, who shared a beautiful vision: to create spaces that foster a deep connection with nature and with one another.
Their journey began with a clear and heartfelt mission, to redefine luxury by aligning it with sustainability and meaningful experiences.
The Design:
The soul of this garden invited reconnecting with nature, yourself and your loved ones, while embracing who you are and the way you live.
The garden is a sanctuary for relaxation, meditation and reflection, where every plant and stone is thoughtfully placed to foster harmony, tranquility and balance. It offers a space to clear your mind, embrace the present moment and appreciate the beauty around you without needing to understand it.
Interior design - Steiners, Interiors by Reputation
Feature Lighting - David Trubridge , Steel Designs - Lisa Sarah
Construction - Millys Gardening , Green Concepts ,Great Escape Gardens
Project management by Matt Bonham
Photographs - Onsite media
The paradise stepping stones gently guide you through the front of the garden, bringing light, energy and calm.
They form a path between the spa and yoga area, symbolising the flow of water from east to south to west.
The Rock water feature sits within a honey comb-shaped pond of schist river stones.
Pause, close your eyes and listen to the soothing sound of water cascading over the rocks.
Under Contruction 2026
Family Home on the Lake Front
A landscape inspired by a love of plants, the outdoors, and the moments that bring family together. This truly special place has been thoughtfully designed to become more than just a garden, it is a space where memories will be created, connections will grow, and generations will enjoy the beauty of nature.
Currently under construction.
This exceptional forever home brings together a talented team of designers and craftsmen, with architecture by DCA Architects of Transformation, interiors by Steiners Interiors by Reputation – Steiners, Interiors by Reputation, Home built by Rotorua Builders | Allen Building Services Ltd |, and landscape design by Milly's Landscape Design.
The garden has been thoughtfully designed to complement the architecture of the home while embracing and enhancing the natural beauty that already exists within the landscape. Through considered planting, natural elements, and carefully crafted outdoor spaces, the design celebrates the relationship between the home, the garden, and its surroundings.
A timeless landscape created with heart, purpose, and a deep respect for the character of the land.
Rural Life
Set within a beautiful rural landscape, the design embraces expansive views across the surrounding farmland and countryside.
It has been a pleasure working alongside such beautiful people to create a space that reflects both the character of the property and the needs of the family.
I’m excited to see this vision come to life and look forward to continuing the journey through the construction phase.
