We set out to create a feeling at Canada Gardens – a lifestyle. Canada Gardens is about looking up at the sky and having time to exhale. That moment when you finally release the tension and relax.

The development is an oasis of greenery against the urban skyline, so we created an urban country feel for a new kind of city living. We envisaged each apartment within the context of the full development, so that it feels like a private suite in a grand country house, with all amenities feeling like they belong to each resident.

The open-plan spaces and amenities have been defined in line with this, so the clubhouse is like residents’ living room, the roof terrace is the treehouse, etc., all linked by the central podium garden with flowers, bushes, grass and allotment beds for residents to grow their own fruit/veg.

Each element is in harmony, with greenery pervading and the design flowing from one area to the next. We dotted the gardens with dining areas, outdoor kitchens and BBQs, as an extension of residents’ private living space, creating a flow between indoors and out. Internal spaces are packed with plants, so nature flows from outdoors to in.

The super-lobby has trees indoors and a hanging garden from the library balcony above. Diffusers add the scent of orange, bergamot and lavender, bringing summer sunshine inside.

There’s a dog run for pets and a pirate ship play park, water feature and stunning indoor playroom with fairy tale lighting for youngsters, all connected by the flow of the podium garden.

The roof terrace, scented with oakmoss 3, delivers a deep connection to nature, with the open sky above. We created a versatile space, with areas to relax, giant Jenga and grassy areas ideal for yoga.

Working professionals have lovely work-from-home sheds surrounded by greenery. There’s a rooftop lounge and work-from-home area, a study and a phone booth over the super-lobby.

The community centrepiece is the clubhouse. It’s welcoming and brimming with greenery. It embodies the urban country vibe; the fragrance of fig trees provides a sense of summery escape.

Blending the urban country design into the homes, we mixed traditional touches with contemporary finishes, using light, medium and dark palettes for broad appeal. The kitchens and open plan living spaces encourage leaving your cares behind, with a laid back yet special vibe through touches like open shelves for pots/pans/ingredients. It’s a country kitchen feel with added cosiness.

Every element builds a sense of homeliness. We used muted tones and a range of textures to deliver homes that feel safe – perfect for city life. For furnishings, we focused on woods, naturally soft greys/greens and dark blue for depth. In bathrooms, handmade tiles and timber panelling add warmth. Throughout Canada Gardens, the overall feel is one of welcome. Of relaxation. Of home.