Page 7 - Landscape-Issue160

PROJECT

planting scheme was introduced, with
a restrained pattern of blues, whites,
pinks and mauves. This not only reduced
maintenance and water requirements,
but allowed form, texture and seasonal
variation to define the experience.
The project also included the integration
of a new, informal restaurant, The Bakery,
onto the side of the Jonkershuis. This
new facility was seamlessly linked to
the historic core via a winding path in
exposed aggregate concrete, which is
wheelchair accessible. The surrounding
seating area, forest walk and sculpture
installations invite exploration, creating
a strong relationship between landscape,
architecture and visitors.
To support the client’s vision of a family-
friendly destination, CNDV also designed
a handcrafted play area beneath the
estate’s old Oak trees. This farm-themed
natural space features sculptural timber
acorns, Oak leaf swings, carved animals
and a wooden tractor – all inviting
imaginative play while referencing the
agricultural character of the site.
The La Motte project is essentially about
reconnection: people to place, buildings to
landscape and heritage to contemporary
life. The new gardens honour the estate’s
history, not by replicating the past but by
clearing space for it.

Soft landscaping and irrigation
Sustainability and functionality are
interwoven throughout the design and
implementation of the landscape. A
primary sustainability strategy was the re-
use of existing site material and the farm’s
rich, loamy topsoil was carefully removed,
stockpiled and reintroduced after
regrading, preserving the land’s natural
fertility and avoiding the environmental
cost of importing new soil. This process
also ensures that the reshaped terrain
remained in harmony with its original
ecological profile.
Planting was guided by both
environmental sensitivity and functional
use. The plant palette focuses on
indigenous and waterwise species, chosen
for their resilience, low maintenance
requirements and year-round visual
interest. These species not only reduce
water consumption but also support local
biodiversity and habitat regeneration.
Where possible, mature trees were
relocated rather than removed, retaining
their ecological value and maintaining
the estate’s mature landscape character.
Irrigation planning was tied to the
broader agricultural operation of the
estate and gardens are irrigated using
the same water source as the vineyards,
with schedules coordinated to ensure
efficiency and prevent overuse. Planting
zones were designed with hydrozoning
principles in mind, namely grouping
Winding paths through the forest provide universal access to The Bakery. The exposed aggregate concrete species by water requirements to optimise
closely matches the gravel in a colour appropriate to the werf palette irrigation use and simplify long-term care.

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