Practical landscape drainage for new landscaping projects and existing gardens. We look at how water moves across your outdoor space, then plan solutions that work with the wider landscape.
Landscape drainage is about more than installing a drain. Ground levels, soil conditions, garden beds, lawn, paving and retaining walls all influence where water travels and where it collects.
At Art of Gardening & Landscaping, we consider drainage as part of the overall outdoor space—whether we’re planning a new landscape or improving an existing garden with ongoing water problems.
From drainage planning during landscape construction to improving the way an established garden handles water.
Planning a new garden or a complete landscaping project? We assess levels, surface water movement and the relationship between drainage, paving, turf, planting areas and retaining walls before the outdoor space is built.
Dealing with standing water, soggy lawn or runoff in an established outdoor area? We look at the existing layout and identify practical improvements, which may include changes to levels, surface drainage or affected landscape elements.
Explore genuine Art of Gardening & Landscaping projects, from front garden transformations to lawns, paving and planted outdoor areas.
These images show the wider landscaping context in which water management matters. They do not, on their own, document drainage installations.
This before-and-after project shows changes to ground levels, paths and planting areas—important considerations when planning where rainwater will flow.

Large lawn areas need suitable grading and drainage planning to help reduce persistent wet patches. The drainage system itself is not shown here.

Paved surfaces, adjoining garden beds and changes in level all influence how surface water moves through a residential landscape.

Raised planting areas beside lawn and paving highlight why garden drainage should account for soil moisture, runoff and surrounding surfaces.

Every property is different. The right garden drainage approach depends on where water comes from, where it collects and how the space is used.
Low spots and poorly directed surface water can leave areas wet after rain.
Managing runoff and changes in level without compromising how the garden functions.
Considering grading, soil and water movement where turf stays soggy.
Addressing water that collects near hard surfaces and access routes.
Improving drainage conditions around planting areas and raised beds.
Considering drainage as part of retaining wall and surrounding landscape construction.
Depending on the site, landscape drainage solutions may involve surface grading, channel drainage, subsurface drainage, or a combination of approaches. The goal is to manage water while preserving the look and usability of your outdoor space.
We assess the landscape first rather than recommending a single system for every property. Any regulated plumbing, stormwater connection or engineering work must be handled by appropriately qualified professionals

Good landscaping brings many elements together. Garden drainage should support how those elements perform—not feel like an afterthought.
A straightforward process for understanding the site and delivering landscape drainage improvements as part of your outdoor project.
We discuss your goals, drainage concerns and how you use the space.
We review levels, surfaces and where water collects or travels.
We develop a practical landscape approach and identify any specialist work required.
We integrate the agreed drainage works with the surrounding landscaping.
From front gardens to backyard drainage, we work on residential landscapes across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. Our focus is on practical outdoor improvements that consider both function and appearance.
Whether you’re planning a complete landscaping project or dealing with a persistent wet area, we can discuss the site and the appropriate next steps.
Service areas include Glen Waverley, Mount Waverley, Wheelers Hill, Burwood, Camberwell, Balwyn, Kew and surrounding suburbs.
We work across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, helping homeowners plan, build and improve outdoor spaces with a practical, complete approach to landscaping.
Planning a new landscape or looking to improve existing garden drainage? Tell us about your project.
The terms overlap. Garden drainage often refers to water management in lawns, soil and planting areas, while landscape drainage can also include paving, retaining walls, paths and overall site levels.
Yes, depending on the cause and site conditions. Existing backyard drainage problems may be addressed through changes to grading, surface drainage or other suitable improvements. A site assessment helps determine the right approach.
Drainage is considered during landscape planning and construction where relevant. This helps coordinate levels, hard surfaces, lawn, garden beds and retaining walls rather than treating water management as a separate afterthought.
Possible causes include low points, compacted or poorly draining soil, unsuitable grading and runoff from surrounding areas. The right lawn drainage solution depends on identifying the cause.
Drainage is an important consideration in retaining wall design and construction. Requirements vary with wall type, height, soil and site conditions, and some projects need engineering or other qualified specialists.
Stormwater connections and regulated plumbing work may require a licensed plumbing professional and relevant approvals. We can discuss how these requirements fit into the wider landscaping project.