Category: Environment

November 19, 2025

Why Soft Engineering is the Smarter Solution for Erosion Control

Erosion is a natural process where soil, rock, or other surface materials are worn away and transported by wind, water, or gravity. While it’s a vital part of natural ecosystems, erosion on your property can lead to costly damage, loss of valuable soil, and even structural instability. The good news? You don’t need concrete walls or heavy machinery to solve the problem. Soft engineering solutions work with nature to create sustainable, cost-effective, and beautiful erosion control.

Site ChallengesSustainability

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September 24, 2025

5 Plants to Attract Pollinators into Your Garden

Brisbane’s subtropical climate is home to a rich variety of native plants that support local biodiversity. By planting the right species in your garden, you can attract birds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, helping to create a healthier, more sustainable environment. Whether you’re planning a wildlife-friendly garden or simply want to support your local ecosystem, here are five native plants perfect for Queensland gardens.

PlantingSustainability

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July 30, 2025

Australian natives that give your garden the WOW factor!

Australian native trees, palms and plants can add stunning beauty, structure, and wildlife appeal to your garden. Whether you have a small space or a large property, there are perfect options to make your garden stand out. Below we have suggested 6 of our favourites that bring the WOW factor. They are known for their sculptural form or colour and make a key contribution to any garden.

Planting

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June 4, 2025

From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Backyard Landscape Ideas You’ll Love

From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Backyard Landscape Ideas You’ll Love Your backyard is more than just a patch of grass; it’s an extension of your home and can be transformed into a personal oasis. Whether you’re looking to create a space for entertaining, relaxation, or family activities, there are endless possibilities to design a backyard that suits your needs and reflects your style. Here are some creative backyard landscape ideas to help you transform your outdoor space.

Outdoor Living

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October 16, 2024

Nelson Street: A Residential Landscape Design Case Study

In the world of residential landscape design, each project presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This case study of Nelson Street explores the transformation of a rebuilt home.…

Case Studies

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September 4, 2024

Six Best Native Groundcovers for Spring Flowers in the Garden

In subtropical regions of Australia, a variety of native plants thrive and showcase their vibrant spring flowers. Although there are so many different varieties and species to pick from, we’ve…

Planting

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July 3, 2023

The Role of Environmental Design in Preventing Crime

Did you know that the design of outdoor spaces plays a significant role in the occurrence of crime? It’s actually a concept we’ve long employed in our work with local…

Sustainability

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November 29, 2022

The Year That was 2022

It’s been a year- this has been a challenging year hear at Orterra. We have had some amazing highs and some lows. We have been a bit quiet on the…

Studio News

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September 21, 2022

Weeds and How To Tell If You Have One?

For many gardeners and non-gardeners, the notion of weeds is that they are this very bad thing that grows too fast and makes the place look ugly. However, the issue…

Planting

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May 18, 2022

Why is Biodiversity so Important to Orterra?

If you have been following us for a while you might have seen us harp on a bit about biodiversity. It is one of our core company values. Our value…

Sustainability

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