Landscape Design Project Clear Island Waters

The existing tennis court had fallen into disrepair, serving no purpose and detracting from the home’s overall appeal. The clients wanted a complete transformation into an open, peaceful space that was practical and easy to maintain. Given their love of golf, the idea was born to transform the old tennis court into a private chip-and-putt golf course. They immediately embraced the concept, and this marked the beginning of a unique and ambitious transformation.

The challenge became how to bring that vision to life within the constraints of a tight suburban site. Access was severely restricted, preventing the use of cranes or large machinery. Every element, from demolition to final installation, would need to be completed by hand or with small-scale equipment, requiring careful planning and significant manual effort.

The design aimed to replace the court’s rigid geometry with a flowing, natural layout. Concrete cut-outs would be used to introduce planting zones, soften the boundaries, and frame the golf course. Curved concrete edges and feature zones would define play areas while maintaining a cohesive visual flow.

A timber pergola would create a shaded entertainment area, surrounded by hand-laid travertine crazy paving, blending seamlessly into the green. Restored court floodlights would preserve a touch of the original site’s character while extending use into the evening. Lush vegetation, supported by a new irrigation system, would complete the transition from hard, lifeless surfaces to a vibrant, inviting landscape.

Golf Course:

A custom-designed chip-and-putt green, shaped with a sand and cement base to create realistic undulations, replaced the old tennis court surface. Precision seaming and gluing ensured the artificial turf sat perfectly, while over 1,000 bags of turf sand were broomed in to finish the surface.

Structural & Landscaping Works:

• Over 1,000 lineal metres of concrete cuts created soft, organic shapes, with each 500x500mm piece removed manually via wheelbarrows.
• Curved concrete edges and circular feature zones were poured to frame both play and rest areas.
• Garden pockets with mature planting were added to soften sightlines and enhance the natural feel.

Entertainment Zone:

• A timber pergola provides shaded seating and a zone for rest and entertaining.
• Hand-laid travertine crazy paving surrounds this area, adding elegance and texture.

Character Features:

• Restored tennis court floodlights allow for evening play.

The transformation of a forgotten tennis court into a functional and elegant mini golf course has become a true lifestyle enhancement for the owners. They now use the course nearly every day, including under the lights in the evening with friends, having fun and making bets – enjoying their passion for golf from the comfort of home. It’s a space that brings joy, movement, and beauty into their lives.

Every stage of the build demanded ingenuity and endurance. Tight access meant all demolition waste and new materials, from heavy turf rolls to plants and paving, were transported by hand. A custom wheeled board was even fabricated to move large turf rolls through narrow entry points. The sheer volume of manual work was matched by precision detailing, with perfectly formed curves and seamless turf joins.

The result is a backyard that is both beautiful and functional; a private golf course that enhances the owners’ lifestyle, preserves elements of the site’s history, and stands as a testament to creative design and skilled execution under challenging conditions.

As a premium landscape design and construction company, Lynx Landscaping transforms ambitious ideas into flawless outdoor spaces. Contact us today to discuss your vision and let us see how we can make it a reality.