5 Minutes With Anthony Wyer Of Wyer Co
We chat to Anthony Wyer, founder of Wyer & Co. – a Sydney based landscape design practice that prides its self on creating connections between landscape and architecture, exterior and interior, environment and individual.
Since 2005, Wyer & Co. has organically grown substantially and now is comprised of a team of 30 across design, construction, and maintenance. In this interview, we provide you with an insight into Wyer & Co., their design philosophy and the challenges of working in this evolving industry.
Can you provide a short introduction to your firm?
I didn’t start my career in landscape design. Instead, a background in structural landscaping has afforded me the ability to understand how things work, or don’t work when it comes to design. It wasn’t until working alongside mentor Will Dangar, that I was exposed to what can be described as ‘simply great design’ – a value and passion brought through to the establishment of my own practice, Wyer & Co. in 2005.
Can you discuss some specifics about Wyer & Co?
Wyer & Co offers a holistic, end-to-end landscape service for residential and multi-residential properties. We are designers, landscapers, horticulturalists and construction specialists.
Collaboration is central to our success. Whether it’s a client or sub-contractor, having the opportunity to work with great people to deliver something beautiful, as it was envisioned, is truly rewarding. We are also privileged to collaborate with the nation’s leading architects, builders and interior designers.
Do you have a design philosophy that you apply to your projects/process?
It starts with design. Each landscape is taken on its own merit ensuring it sits comfortably as an extension of home and environment.
That said, I really enjoy what we’re doing now – a considered mix of exotics, natives and succulents. It takes a lot of experience to get the balance and combination of plants right.
What are some of Wyer & Co’s highlights?
For us, the transformation is the most rewarding – seeing the garden thrive and people enjoying the space – showing it off to their friends and neighbours.
We have a number of really special projects in the pipeline, including a complete garden renovation at Macmasters Beach. The landscape is a sloping block with endless views. And as part of our scope, we have introduced a number of new, usable areas across multiple levels. Navigated by stairs the garden is divided by new sandstone retaining walls. Texture plays an important role in the introduction of crazy paving and bush hammered sandstone together with a rough stucco render. The budget has allowed for a comprehensive plant palette including 30 mature trees which, when placed alongside the landscape’s existing natives (Banksia, Melaleuca), will ensure the garden looks full and established from the outset.
What are some of the challenges of working in your industry?
The industry, like a garden, is constantly evolving with landscape and architecture now thought to hold equal importance. It takes a lot of experience to ensure the right balance.
As designers, what/who/where do you get inspiration from?
As designers, travel offers inspiration and the opportunity to broaden the way we approach design. There is always something to be learnt by experiencing new places and how they make you feel. But our greatest inspiration often comes from the architecture and surrounding environment – as designers, landscapers, horticulturalists and construction specialists we focus on building connections between these areas.
What advice would you give an individual starting their career in your industry?
The industry has evolved greatly over the years with many new specialities now available. And while it is important to experience as much as possible you should also take time to find the right person to mentor you. From a design perspective, it is important not only to have a good understanding of the practice but also, what’s involved in the building process. Spend time on-site working with people, understanding and learning the necessary communication skills.
What’s next for Wyer & Co?
We look forward to revealing our Macmasters Beach project later in the year but we’re also fortunate enough to be working on some other really exciting residential projects, including a rooftop garden with incredible harbour views and a waterfront landscape at Point Piper. We’ll also be celebrating our 15-year anniversary this Spring.
To Wrap Up…
Best place for a bite to eat in Potts Point?
Fratelli Paradiso
All-time favourite garden/outdoor space?
Botanical Gardens in Rio, Brazil
Favourite plant?
I tend to take an organic approach to planting with strong focal points supported by layers of textural interest. Lately, however, I have been experimenting with Cacti for their unique sculptural form, versatility and adaptability to extreme conditions – such as drought.
Your dream holiday destination?
Los Angeles, California – beautiful gardens, architecture and endless inspiration.
Your ultimate Sunday looks like…?
Surf in the morning with the family at Bondi, followed by lunch and a few drinks with my wife before winding down in front of a movie in the evening.
What does #livelifeoutdoors mean to you?
Being in the moment and experiencing it all – whether you’re entertaining, hiking, surfing or riding a bike – it’s important to make the most of it.
See more of work by Wyer & Co. here.
