About

I’m Nicholas, founder and head designer of Sheoak Design. I grew up in New Zealand chasing chickens through the backyard, tomato seeds dripping down my chin, a childhood that quietly set the tone for everything that followed. Gardening runs in the family; my father is a lifelong green thumb and still grows the best tomatoes.

Now with a family of my own, I understand the value of daily access to tranquil green space. My wife and I love nothing more than gathering with family and friends in our garden, a belief that shapes the way I design.

I’ve worked in the horticulture and plant industry since 2003, beginning in nurseries before completing a landscaping apprenticeship and further studies in sustainable landscape design at Swinburne. More than 20 years on, I’m still deeply engaged in the craft I love.

I’ve developed a Native Mediterranean style well suited to the Mornington Peninsula climate, though my work is always guided by my clients, ranging from Japanese and coastal gardens to formal, cottage, Palm Springs and tropical designs. Sustainability and a strong use of native plants underpin every project. I value the creative challenge.

My approach is grounded in stewardship, caring for the landscape we inhabit and recognising Australia as a singular environment worth protecting. I’m proud to play a small part in that story, leaving the world a little greener in my wake.

“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.”

- John Muir

Work With Me

Sheoak Design Philosophy

  • We begin by listening, then carefully observing the site, its aspect, architecture, history, location and existing landscape. Through collaboration and clear planning, and always mindful of your budget, we resolve beauty and function together to make full use of the space, adding value and amenity while creating an outdoor living space to gather, eat, marvel and play.

  • Respect for nature underpins everything we do. We favour native and indigenous planting with careful plant selections, durable and ethical natural materials and low-impact practices that endure both environmentally and aesthetically. We love to incorporate trees for shade and aspect planning, produce garden beds, fruit trees, bee hives, worm farms, compost bins and water smart irrigation systems to nurture the ecosystem that is your garden.

  • Guided by calm, beauty and connection, we design landscapes that bridge modern living and the natural world. Our gardens are places to slow the mind, enhance daily life and bring people together.