Edna Walling Historic Toorak Garden

Timeless elegance for a classic home

Set within Toorak’s prestigious Montalto Estate subdivision of 1927, our Toorak client occupies land originally part of one of the area’s grand 19th‑century estates. The subdivision produced a distinctive loop‑road layout and a collection of generous allotments intended for architect‑designed homes, giving the precinct its cohesive Interwar character. Among the first residences commissioned was a home for Dr. E. Rosanove, positioned on a sizeable garden allotment and complemented by a landscape design created by renowned Australian garden designer Edna Walling.

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About Edna Walling

Edna Walling is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most influential and enduring landscape designers. A pioneer whose work set the benchmark for naturalistic garden design throughout the 20th century. Celebrated for her masterful integration of architecture and landscape, Walling’s gardens combine flowing plant palettes, stonework, and a deep sensitivity to place. Her commissions were highly sought-after among Melbourne’s most distinguished households, and her few surviving gardens, including the design at About Edna WallingMontalto Avenue, are now considered culturally significant examples of Australia’s horticultural heritage.

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DVH's journey through time

When we first met the owner, it was immediately clear that this was no ordinary garden. A newly constructed tennis court had left the surrounding landscape in disarray, with heavy machinery disturbing soil structure, compacting key areas, and compromising the established plantings. Restoring the integrity and elegance of the garden became the responsibility of DVH Horticulture. What began as selective pruning and careful reshaping of overgrown trees and shrubs soon evolved into a comprehensive rejuvenation, culminating in the introduction of our DVH Fine Turf Program to elevate and refine the property’s Sir Walter Buffalo lawn.

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A classic garden reborn

The garden now feels naturally reconnected to the character of the home. What was once a disturbed, uneven landscape has become a cohesive, elegant outdoor space the owners genuinely enjoy, whether stepping outside for a quiet moment, walking along the renewed paths, or simply appreciating the revitalised greenery from indoors. With its restored structure and refreshed lawn, the garden brings a timeless calm back to the property.