Establishing the studio over 25 years ago, his passion for architecture and fastidious attention to detail has helped evolve the studio into the industry-leading practice it is today.
As Australia’s foremost landscape design studio, Jack Merlo has forged a reputation for shaping landscapes unified by visual beauty and a meticulous attention to detail.
Through classical execution, industry knowledge and consideration for seasonal change, Jack Merlo cultivates landscapes defined by strong architectural lines, generous planting and elegant styling.
Jack Merlo was launched following several high-profile awards including a Gold Medal win at the London’s Chelsea Flower Show in 2005. Since then, the studio has embraced a collaborative design ethos, working alongside architects and developers to become one of Australia’s leading landscape architecture studios.
Through Jack’s personal involvement in every project, tailored outcomes respond directly to context, cultivating spaces in harmony with architecture and interior design. This hands-on approach ensures that each garden is a unique reflection of its surroundings, seamlessly integrating with the existing structures and interiors to create a cohesive and harmonious environments.
Drawing on extensive experience and long-standing collaboration with industry-leading designers and developers, Jack Merlo shapes exceptional botanical environments distinguished by attention to detail and high-quality natural materials. These partnerships enable Jack to stay at the forefront of landscape design, incorporating the latest trends and innovations while maintaining a timeless appeal. Each project is a testament to Jack’s commitment to excellence, where meticulous planning and execution result in gardens that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Jack Merlo gardens are compositions of seasonal beauty, where each seasonal transition is considered a primary pillar of design. The careful selection of plants ensures that the garden evolves throughout the year, offering a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. From the vibrant colours of spring blooms to the rich textures of autumn foliage, every season brings new interest and delight. This thoughtful approach not only enhances the garden's visual appeal but also creates a sensory experience that engages and inspires visitors year-round.
Through extensive experience, Jack Merlo and his team combine capabilities that span sectors and scales, delivering a bespoke response to clients’ specific requirements.
concept design
Every project begins with a client meeting where we discuss the brief, familiarise ourselves with the site and establish the intentions for it.
- Client consultation and establishment of expectations
- Site analysis and assessment
- Preliminary layout plans
- Mood boards and visual aids
- Feasibility studies
design development
During the design development phase, we collaborate with relevant consultants to further develop concept drawings for approval to then progress to working drawings
- Detailed site planning
- Planting design
- Hardscape design
- 3D modelling and visualisation
- Where applicable, the design development phase would include preparation of drawings for endorsement purposes
TOWN PLANNING
Where town planning approval is required, we will familiarise ourselves with site conditions, planning controls and any specific overlays. We are well-versed in regulatory compliance and can prepare documentation to guide projects through the approval process including;
- Regulatory compliance
- Master Planning
- Submission of Planning Applications
- Representation at VCAT and other tribunals as necessary
CONTRACT DOCUMENTATION
Once any permits have been issued and the design concept clarified, comprehensive working drawings are finalised for documentation purposes. Typical planting details, planting schedules, lighting plans, irrigation plans, and structural elements are finalised ahead of construction commencing.
- Construction drawings
- Irrigation and lighting plans
- Bill of Quantities
- Tender documentation
- Technical specifications
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Once construction begins, our involvement can be limited or ongoing depending on specific project and client needs.
- Quality Control
- Contract Administration
- Responses to contractor queries
- Progressive and final inspections
MEET THE PEOPLE
Behind the work
Jack Merlo is a team of landscape specialists whose combined backgrounds and professional experience introduce an eminent level of design and execution to every project.
Jack Merlo, Director
Piertra Siney, Studio Manager & EA
Ricardo Merlo, Brand Manager
Jun Yan, Senior Landscape Architect
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Cindy Clairine, Senior Landscape Architect
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Kubra Beyli, Landscape Architect
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Jo Fu, Landscape Architect
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