About Us

CALDESIGN is the design studio of Claudia Anelli Lane – colour consultant/designer and partner Andrew Lane, a registered landscape architect. Established in Sydney in 2002, CALDESIGN offers an extensive range of landscape, interior and colour design services across a broad range of project types including residential, heritage, commercial, public domain and schools.

CALDESIGN combines local knowledge with international flair to provide unique and inspired solutions for every client. We can assist at all stages of a project, drawing on the expertise of trusted consultants and contractors to bring plans to reality and deliver high-quality projects on budget. We enjoy using recycled products and hand-selected materials and, where possible, integrate energy efficient systems into our designs.

Whether you are renovating, re-building or simply re-decorating we will personally guide you through the creative process to ensure that your dream is brought to life.

Services

Our services include:
 
       
  • Landscape Architecture & Garden Design
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  • Interior Design and Styling
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  • Colour Consultancy
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  • Advice, Concepts and Construction Documentation
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  • Project Co-ordination and Contract Administration
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  • Materials Sourcing and Supply
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Our expertise extends to:
 
       
  • Residential Design; Gardens and Homes
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  • Schools, Sports Facilities and Master Planning
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  • Interior and Exterior Colour Schemes
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  • Custom Swimming Pool Design
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  • Shade Structures, Courtyards and Entertainment Areas
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  • Interior and Exterior Product Selection and Advice
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projects

  • 1.waterview

    New Coastal Home, Newport Headland

    Located on the headland between Newport and Bungan on Sydney’s northern beaches this site commands views up and down the coastline as well as out to sea and across to Pittwater. Using this as inspiration our design objective was to create a garden that reflected the beauty and dynamism of the landscape. The garden needed to be functional and robust, able to thrive in a coastal environment and have a seamless connection with the house. We wanted to capture views from unexpected locations and ensure that every facet of our design complimented the site, the architecture and the landscape.

    Photos – Peter Brennan and CALDESIGN. Build – Adam Linton. Services provided – Design, documentation and project management.

    (View Project)

  • 1.view from the house

    Northshore Estate

    In 2007 we were asked by the owners of a property on Sydney’s upper north shore to come up with a scheme that would unify two separate but adjoining blocks of land. Both blocks contained numerous large trees including several heritage-listed Oaks and protecting these was a priority. In terms of the brief the owners wanted a garden for the long-term; one that could be enjoyed all year round, be great for entertaining and evoked a sense of relaxed formality.

    Photos by Peter Brennan and CALDESIGN. Build by Neil Beecroft Constructions, BCW Constructions and CALDESIGN. Services provided – Design, documentation, project management and planting.

    (View Project)

  • IMG_5465_a

    A New Home – inside and out

    The owners of this property in Pymble recently moved back from overseas and required assistance in planning their new residence. CALDESIGN was engaged to assist with all aspects of the development, inside and out. Claudia was asked to select colours and various materials and finishes for the Chateau-built residence, complimenting the work being undertaken on the garden by Andrew. This included the exterior and interior colour scheme, bathroom finishes and fixtures.

    The house and garden has really come together over the 18 months since the house was completed. We have just completed a side courtyard area and have commenced initial design work on a swimming pool, cabana and outdoor kitchen out the back, scheduled for completion this year.

    Photos by Peter Brennan. Build by HSA and CALDESIGN. Services provided – Site planning, DA and CC plans, colour and interior consultancy, landscape design and construction coordination.

    (View Project)

  • IMG_8027_a

    Pool and Shade in Roseville

    A small rear garden in the heart of Roseville lacked shade in summer and was in need of a complete rethink. Two options were prepared for a swimming pool and a shade structure and complying development plans were prepared for the preferred options. Recently completed the outcome is a neat, resort-style pool and covered entertaining area that flows directly off the living and dining rooms.

    The design features a fully-tiled pool with integrated water feature, frameless glass and timber balustrade, a light, translucent shade canopy, separate BBQ nook, LED lighting and a screened utility area.

    Photos by Peter Brennan. Build by Urban Escape and owner. Services provided – Planning, design and CDC plans.

    (View Project)

  • 09

    Home Renovation – North Turramurra

    The aim of this project was to update a 1960′s split level home by firstly creating an open plan living area that was family friendly, warm and inviting as well as functional and easy to manage. On the lower level several walls were knocked down to create one large interconnected space; the cathedral- style ceilings working perfectly with the open plan feel and architectural detail. Reclaimed hardwood beams added beauty and character to the clean, open space and wide Spotted Gum floorboards were laid over the old cypress pine boards to create beautiful, insulated floor.

    The spacious, modern kitchen using a Scandinavian palette was a knockout and featured in House and Garden magazine in 2004. The new living area flowed out onto a large outdoor deck acting like an extension to the dining area in the warmer months and an outdoor play area for the children all year around.

    A new foyer, loft bedroom and widened staircase were also constructed and sisal was laid throughout the bedroom and entry zone to complete the contemporary makeover.

    (View Project)

  • feb 17 2012 007_cropped

    Pool & Garden – before and after

    The entire rear garden of this Turramurra property needed redesigning and the pool a complete make-over. CALDESIGN provided a detailed concept plan and followed up with project co-ordination. The work involved reshaping, re-tiling and re-lining the swimming pool and integrating it with other new elements including large deck areas, walling, screen planting, access steps, lighting and frameless glass fencing. See the results by way of a few ‘before-and-after’ shots taken recently.

    Photos by CALDESIGN. Build – Neil Beecroft. Services – Concept design, working drawings and works coordination.

    (View Project)

  • IMG_5457

    Colour and styling – a gallery

    (View Project)

  • feature image_gregs

    A Rustic Courtyard in Glebe

    The owners of this 19th century terrace  were struggling to work out how best to improve their outdoor space so they could actually use and enjoy it. We provided a detailed concept plan and then oversaw construction, working closely alongside the carpenter to assist in the building and advise on detail. The garden is now a flourishing and enjoyable part of the property, providing an extra room to relax and entertain in.

    Photos by CALDESIGN. Build – Burns Carpentry and Andrew Lane. Services – Design and project management.

    (View Project)

  • pool corner cropped

    Pools and Surrounds – a gallery

    Take a look at some recent work involving pools and surrounds. More information upon request.

    (View Project)

  • 24-feb 2012 015-resize75

    Corner Block Garden, Roseville Chase

    The owners of this Art Deco-style home were completing their renovations when attention turned to the garden and entry area. Visually prominent and featuring a lovely curved parapet and new carport structure, the frontage required a design that addressed several issues at once. Building work had left a drainage issue at the front door and the new carport meant the main access corridor had shifted away from the front gate. A simple scheme to suit the sunny western aspect and compliment the neutral colour scheme and appealing period architecture was developed, with subtle level changes and other low-key features helping to successfully integrate house with garden.

    Snaps by CALDESIGN. Build by owners. Services – Layout and Levels Plan, Planting Plan + Advice.

    (View Project)

process

A project may involve some or all of these stages

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SKETCH DESIGN

1. After we meet and assess the site concept plans are prepared for discussion.

This stage can take a week to a month depending upon the project.

Fees (landscape) vary from $500 – $4,000 + GST (Average fee – $800 to $1,200 + GST). A quote is provided after the initial meeting.

Interior/exterior colour schemes from $400 + GST, styling from $285 + GST. Decorating advice, sourcing of materials and furniture and hourly consultations from $110/hr + GST.

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DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

2. Concepts are developed and draft plans are presented for review. If required, consultants are coordinated and approvals obtained. Preliminary costings are also considered.

Can take between 2 weeks and 2 months depending upon the project.

Fees are project specific and are often combined with Stage 3 – Detailed Design

Average fee range for this stage – $1,000 to $2,500 + GST.

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DETAILED DESIGN

3. If required, detailed construction documentation is prepared and approvals, if required, are obtained.

Preparation time depends on the nature and scale of the project. Can vary between 2 weeks and 2 years!

Fees vary depending upon the construction budget, level of detail required and complexity of the project.

Average fee – $2,000 to $4,000 + GST and may overlap with stage 2.

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TENDER & CONSTRUCTION

4. We provide full tender and construction phase services. Project co-ordination typically involves regular site meetings and periodic inspections. Site issues are resolved and sign-off, if required, is arranged.

Tender and construction periods vary greatly and are project specific and fees vary according to the level of involvement and degree of project management required.

A typical co-ordination fee for a $100,000 project would be around $2,500 or hourly at $150/hr + GST.

CREATIVE STUDIO

  • melbourne Oct 2011 232

    Welcome to Creative Studio!

    Creative Studio brings together like-minded and inquisitive designers and ‘students’ in a collaborative and supportive setting where ideas are shared and techniques explored. Our program of workshops and discussion groups feature a range of topics including art, interior design, interior styling & decorating, floral design, textile design, cake decoration, social media and marketing.

    Our guest-educators are all talented designers and artists passionate about their craft and enthusiastic about sharing their inspiration.

    Classes are suitable for everyone. They are hands-on and practical. Workshops for children are scheduled for the second half of the year and dates will be announced in the NEWS section of our website.

    Check out the current and featured workshops in this section of our website for prices and class details.

  • clip_image001

    New workshop news “Dynamic room design”

    The Dynamic Room Design workshop provides the opportunity to explore and build upon your room decorating ideas and you will come away with a clear and concise plan of action to make your project a reality.

    Jennifer French, Principal of Inside Out Colour and Design, will guide you towards your finished room. Through a fun and interactive session, you will not only have access to Jennifer’s years of experience and knowledge but also gain insight from other participants.

    Bring along details of the room you would like to improve including photos, measurements and any objects you may like to incorporate into your design. Through the workshop you will create an inspiration board with fabrics, colours and images to help you on your way!

    When & Where: Times and dates to be confirmed. The address will be on your form.

    Price: $150 ph. Maximum participants – 12. Register your interest now in our Contact section.

Testimonials

  • Thank you Andrew and Claudia for your vision and professionalism during the year and a half it took to put together our new garden. There were some tricky moments during the project, as there always are when building on a difficult site, but we achieved great things and the end result speaks for itself! From an almost bare block of noxious weeds and a few random trees, we now enjoy a dense and thriving Australian garden all year round; full of bird life, colour and constant growth. We’re delighted with our garden and are happy to let you show it to prospective clients.

    Bob and Elaine Allo, Newport

  • We were thrilled with Andrew’s work. He turned our small Glebe backyard into something special – a space that is both beautiful and functional. He listened to what we wanted then came up with something that surpassed our expectations. The quality of the workmanship was excellent and we were thrilled with his choice of plants and unique touches, particularly the recycled wood fence. He also managed the project himself, which made the whole process quick and painless.

    Greg Hassall, Forest Lodge

  • We asked Andrew to provide us with an overall garden plan so that we could do the renovation of our tired old garden ourselves. Andrew was easy to talk with and quickly appreciated the current garden and came up with a plan that we were enthusiastic about. We can recommend his service. By accessing his knowledge and experience and his eye for design and colour our efforts to make a garden that is practical and attractive will become a reality.

    Private Clients, Pymble

  • I would like to thank you for your landscaping service which was first rate and the professional manner you conducted yourself with my many requests. Thanks.

    Greg Curtis, Turramurra

  • We are immensely happy with the design you have put forward and once again have found working with you to be an easy and enjoyable experience. Many thanks!

    Megan Andriessen, Normanhurst

  • What you have done is perfect! Plenty of options and sensational mood lighting throughout.

    Maurizio, TOVO Lighting

  • We engaged Andrew to solve a challenging design problem with a pool and shade structure for a small irregularly shaped backyard. From concept to detail design Andrew provided us with a creative and cost effective solution. Our family now enjoys their own small resort instead of just having a pool placed in our backyard. Andrew was a pleasure to communicate and work with and we have no hesitation in recommending his creative skills.

    Rod Wilks, Roseville

  • Thanks Andrew and Claudia for your work so far – I think it’s really valuable to have a clear picture on how to proceed rather than letting the trades make it up.

    Tony Locke, Maroubra

  • Dear Andrew,

    Your ideas and drawings have been great and given us a goal to work towards. Thanks also for sending the diagram with the levels which will be very helpful and also the plant list.

    Dr. Roger Stone, St. Ives

  • Andrew and Claudia were able to blend their experience in knowing what works and what was possible with our ideas of what we wanted to achieve. The attention to detail and meticulous approach made the extensive landscaping and construction work run smoothly to plan, avoiding the need to make adjustments as it progressed. This created an area which has both a wonderful ambience and understated charm and has provided us with an outdoor living area which everyone loves to be in throughout the year.

    Christopher Janssen, Warrawee

news - current projects

  • magazine article_Page_2

    Press Feature

    • Magazine ProfileOur recently completed project at Newport on Sydney's northern beaches is featured in the popular Backyard and Garden Design Ideas magazine (Issue 10.3). Entitled 'Coasting Along' the article profiles the headland property that we designed and built in collaboration with architect Peter Burford.
      Described as "a symphony of tantalising textures and coastal colours" the project involved the creation of a rich new garden landscape around a contemporary pavillion-style dwelling.
      Photos of this project can be viewed in the PROJECTS section under New Coastal Home.
      If you are interested in the full magazine article, further project details or a site visit please send your request via the enquiry form in the CONTACT section below.
  • RPS mp

    School Master Plan in Roseville

    • Landscape Master Plan & Stage DocumentationIn late 2012 Roseville Public School engaged CALDESIGN to prepare a landscape master plan to guide the school's development over the next 20 years. Recent building works had significantly altered many parts of the school and left several areas in need of repair. A more creative and integrated approach to the up-grading of grounds and outdoor facilities was needed.
      Our work has involved the re-design of play spaces, sports facilities, performance spaces and entry 'gates'. We have addressed issues regarding legibility, circulation, parking, traffic, access and vegetation.
      We are currently working on constructing stages 1 and 2 of the plan.
  • izaks front fence - news

    Pymble Residence – Pool, Cabana and Outdoor Kitchen

    • Design, Document and OverseeHaving recently completed interior and exterior design work on this project - see A NEW HOME- INSIDE AND OUT in our PROJECTS section - we have just completed work on a side courtyard garden and feature privacy screen.
      Forming the backdrop to the main living and formal dining rooms, this area provides a quiet, secluded zone to relax in, with running water, lush planting and timber work creating a soothing atmosphere.
      We are now undertaking initial design work on a proposed pool, cabana and covered outdoor kitchen area in the rear garden. This will involve preparation of complying development plans, costing, tendering and works co-ordination for a 2013 completion target.
  • forest lodge concept a_crop

    A New Courtyard Project – Inner West

    • Concept DesignHaving recently visited a nearby project of ours the owners of a terrace house in Forest Lodge have engaged CALDESIGN to redesign their garden and improve connections with adjoining living areas. A generous courtyard space with plenty of potential, the brief is to create an inviting, functional, easy-care oasis.
      Well, we love the pond and the giant Dracena that shades it. And we like the mature Cordyline nearby and also the large Casuarina down the back. We also like the Bangalow Palm and the Raphis coming through from next door.
      But we're not so fond of the treated pine deck, white lattice fencing or spider webs. They're going.
  • IMG_4251

    Courtyard Makeover -Turramurra

    • Design and DocumentCALDESIGN recently completed the re-design of an enclosed courtyard space tucked away at the rear of a historic property in Turramurra. This was a long-awaited stage in a series of renovations undertaken by the owners and represented an important chance to make use of a part of the site neglected for some time.
      The opportunity to create an outdoor room that acted as an extension of their new kitchen and living area was discussed over a period of months during which time several design options were prepared. The preferred scheme underwent a process of evolution until a final design was agreed upon and submitted for approval by a private certifier.
      Recently completed the courtyard features a large covered area with built-in BBQ, ponds, large-format granite paving, hardwood decking, new screen planting, LED lighting, stone walling and custom rock work.
  • wilks sketch elevs - news

    Creating Street Appeal in Roseville

    • Planning and Concept DesignThe frontage to this single-storey house in leafy Roseville requires a complete overhaul. CALDESIGN was recently engaged to come up with a scheme that would make the most of a generous setback and dramatically improve street appeal.
      The brief required a total re-think of virtually every aspect of the garden including car parking, vehicle and pedestrian access, circulation, planting, legibility and drainage.
      Our design features a new double carport structure that references the existing facade, a car turning bay and widened vehicle entry, new pedestrian pathway and steps, front boundary and garden retaining walls, an entry arbor and a pergola-covered courtyard with water feature and integrated privacy screen.
  • hudson before_31-1-12 024

    Carport, Courtyard and Pool (Heritage), Gordon

    • Full DA Submission, Consultant Co-ordinationOne of Ku-ring-gai's last remaining Edwardian weatherboard cottages was the subject of a recent commission involving proposed ancillary works. The owners were keen to relocate their carport forward of its current position in order to make better use of the garden area opposite their main living area. This would allow the construction of a courtyard space that would extend their entertaining area. Modification to an existing fixed window awning would also allow much-needed light into an adjacent bedroom.
      We designed the new carport to include an integrated and easily accessible bin enclosure as well as storage cabinet for wine.
      The owners also wanted to explore the idea of incorporating a swimming pool into the rear yard. Leaving a deep expanse of lawn intact we designed the pool and spa to have minimal impact, locating it in a clearing toward the rear of the yard - in an area little used and surrounded by lush sub-tropical vegetation.
      Development consent was recently granted after it was demonstrated that the proposal would result in no loss of heritage value and that several functional deficiencies had been addressed.
  • locke part plan - news

    Staged Re-building in Maroubra

    • Concept Plans, Construction Detailing and On-going AdviceNearing certification, the owners of this knockdown-rebuild project have implemented our design in stages. Careful consideration has been given not only to the sandy soils and coastal climate but also to the manner in which the design is detailed. Much of the construction work has been handled by the owners with assistance when required from local contractors so clarity, flexibility and simplicity are key ingredients in the design.
      Self-sustainability was an important part of the new home and so sand-loving natives and an edible garden zone has been integrated into the layout to compliment other energy-efficient systems present.
      Planting includes Acmena, Alpinia, Banksia, Buckinghamia, Cordyline, Correa, Cupaniopsis, Dianella, Dietes, Drepanostachym, Elaeocarpus, Lomandra, Syzygium and Westringia.
  • glebe_3

    A Courtyard Makeover in Glebe

    • Design and ConstructionThis garden was completed in late winter and has since flourished into a thriving and inviting courtyard space for the family of three. A raised garden bed made from old railway sleepers and original serpentine path were retained in the design.
      A new decked platform was built at the rear, with a bed of clumping bamboo cut into the corner. This accommodates a dining table and room for casual seating and there is an adjoining BBQ nook paved in sandstone. Another area of decking was constructed over an old patched concrete path, connecting the main garden with the back door and side access gate. Stone-capped plinths are incorporated into the upper landing to support rustic urns planted with sun-loving plants.
      The garden also features a raised bed full of diverse Mediterranean and Australian plants with Andersite rock and a rustic palisade-style fence along the boundary.
      We got our hands dirty on this job and boy, didn't we enjoy those crisp August mornings, great Glebe coffee and all that sunshine. The splinters have just about disappeared.
      Thanks to Steve Burns of Burns Carpentry for his portable stereo…and expertise.
  • ellalong steps

    Pedestrian Access and Custom Timber Work, North Turramurra

    • Concept, Working Drawings and BuildA steep driveway was making it difficult for visitors to negotiate the entry to this home and additional privacy was sought for an adjoining carport area. CALDESIGN had previously renovated the interiors and redesigned the garden and driveway areas. A final sympathetic treatment was required to provide safe pedestrian access and privacy to the carport and entry area.
      Hardwood steps and landings were carefully designed and constructed to flow through a steep gap in the garden and to meet existing landings. A matching timber handrail was included as well as low voltage lighting and dry sandstone walling. The driveway area was screened using rough-sawn hardwood stakes secured vertically with small gaps to maintain light and air flow. The pattern effect of different hardwood colours in unison provides an attractive alternative to standard fencing.
      For details and images please use the Enquiry form on our Contact page.
  • 10-bastow

    Pool and Garden Makeover, Turramurra

    • Concept Plans and Works Co-ordinationBringing an old, tired pool back to life and creating fresh, inviting and functional areas around it was the desired outcome for the new owners of a spacious north shore property. With three water-loving and sporty children, 'modernising' the pool and garden was essential however it was more than a simple exercise in improving the presentation.
      Our plan revolved around increasing the width of the pool surround and thereby significantly altering the shape and character of the pool to improve access, circulation and relationship to the house. And by designing generous deck areas at both ends of the pool, re-building and adding new walling and redesigning the pool fence layout new usable spaces were created inside and outside the swimming area.
      Before and after shots of this project have just been added to the PROJECTS section. Additional details of the pool restoration and other features can be requested via our Contact page.
  • 1.1. cloister after_jan 2010_resized

    Restoration Work in Dulwich Hill

    • Concept Plans and Working DrawingsHaving previously undertaken master planning and staged documentation for the new senior school campus CALDESIGN recently completed the up-grading of junior and middle school grounds at St. Marouns College, Dulwich Hill. Collaborating once again with architect Anthony Gan part of the work involved the redesign and restoration of the historic cloister in the heart of the school.
      The work included the renewal of the symbolic centre-piece and featured the repair of original sandstone paths and steps, new period planting and large grassed areas. Additional features include architectural lighting, ornate steel balustrades and corridor tiling.
      For further details please use the inquiry form in The CONTACTS section below.

contact

To make contact, please use the details below

Phone:   0413 607 104
Email:    studio@caldesign.com.au