Bushfire & Drought Adaptation Design

Living in a bushfire-prone area surrounded by native bushland is beautiful, but it requires landscaping choices that reduce ember risk and increase safety.

Project Context & Scope

Residential landscaping project focused on developing a bushfire-resilient and water-efficient garden using regionally appropriate plants and locally sourced materials to support long-term environmental and economic sustainability.

Responsibilities & Contributions

• Researched suitability of plant species for bushfire-prone and low-water environments

• Designed garden layout to enhance soil health, passive resilience and maintenance efficiency

• Sourced and transported limestone from the property for rock walls and gabion retaining structures

• Implemented planting and hardscape construction through hands-on site work

  
  

Objectives

• Create a fire-resistant and water-wise landscape appropriate for Western Australian climate

• Minimise environmental impact by using reclaimed and locally available materials

• Establish a garden that reduces ongoing maintenance needs

• Reduce irrigation demand and long-term economic cost

  
  

Sustainability Impact Considerations

1. Local Material Sourcing: Limestone was collected entirely from the property, reducing transportation emissions and maintaining natural material cycles

2. Ethical & Climate Appropriate Planting: Agave plants, chosen for drought tolerance and fire resistance, were sourced second-hand from a local garden removal, avoiding contribution to global over-farming

3. Fire-Resilient Design: Limestone’s density and heat resistance, combined with Agave’s high moisture and low fuel load, were used to create natural firebreaks to reduce ember travel

4. Water Efficiency: Limestone’s porous qualities improve water distribution and erosion control, while Agave thrives with minimal irrigation and stabilises soil structure

5. Economic Sustainability: Material cost was near zero due to on-site sourcing; drought-tolerant planting reduces future water and maintenance costs significantly

Methodology

1. Species planted prior to bushfire season to test resilience under seasonal conditions

2. Rainfall-only (dryland) establishment — no supplementary watering or mulching

3. Surviving species identified and selected for ongoing propagation and future landscape use

   
   

Outcomes & Key Results

• Developed a resilient landscape supporting bushfire safety, water conservation and soil stability

• Reduced projected water usage via drought-tolerant planting and efficient irrigation planning

• Implemented natural fire-resistant zones improving property protection

• Demonstrated ability to apply sustainability principles in practical, real-world construction

• Delivered a visually cohesive landscape with minimal long-term cost and maintenance needs

  
  

Surviving species, June 2024 to November 2025 — Senecio serpens (blue chalkstick), Agave attenuata (spineless century plant), Aloe arborescens (aloe candelabra) & pigface