Amazing Hardscapes

Tilted to one side to allow views out from the central platform, this "Nest" is enveloped in foliage, creating the illusion of sprouting from the forest floor like a plant. Trees grow up through the center of the platform, providing a canopy that protects and embraces the space while allowing dappled light to penetrate. — design and photography by Jamie Durie

Designer Jamie Durie created the "Nest" using age-old weaving techniques and a mix of recycled timbers, metal and twigs. Found objects woven into the ribbed frame create a wonderful textural feel, and recycled timber makes the space feel warm and inviting. — design and photography by Jamie Durie

In this serpentine deck by Jamie Durie, a narrow gap creates the illusion that the wooden deck continues seamlessly into the water. However, the water laps over a recessed area that's actually separate from the wood. — design and photography by Jamie Durie

Designed by Jamie Durie, this sculptural outdoor room combines natural and artificial materials finely crafted and rigorously engineered to create a dramatic focal point. The elliptical deck is encircled by terraced garden beds of concrete and rock, and cut off like an island by a reflection pond. A gentle ribbon of water spills over weirs in the garden beds into the pond, barely disrupting the stillness of the surface. — design and photography by Jamie Durie