Structural & Decorative Retaining Wall Solutions

More Than Just Holding Back Earth

Retaining walls are among the most transformative elements in landscape design. While their primary function is structural - holding back soil to create level areas or prevent erosion - a well-designed retaining wall does so much more. It creates planting opportunities, defines spaces, adds architectural interest, and can turn a difficult sloping site into a stunning multi-level garden.

At David Claude Landscape Design, we’ve spent over 30 years working with Melbourne’s often challenging terrain, developing expertise in retaining solutions that are as beautiful as they are functional.

Retaining Wall Materials

Natural Rock Walls

Nothing matches the organic beauty of natural stone. Rock retaining walls can range from dry-stacked arrangements that appear to have existed for centuries to more formal coursed stonework. We work with local Melbourne stones including:

• Bluestone - Classic and timeless
• Granite - Durable and versatile
• Sandstone - Warm and textured
• Local basalt - Perfect for naturalistic settings

Rock walls develop character over time as lichens and mosses colonise the surface, making them particularly suited to gardens designed to feel established from the outset.

Timber Retaining Walls

Timber brings warmth and a softer aesthetic to garden retaining. Modern treated timbers offer excellent longevity while maintaining a natural appearance. Timber walls are particularly effective for:

• Lower walls under 600mm
• Garden bed edges
• Integration with timber decking
• Budget-conscious projects

Concrete Sleeper Walls

Concrete sleepers combine the durability of concrete with efficient installation. Available in various colours and textures - including convincing timber-look options - sleeper walls offer excellent value for taller applications.

Rendered Masonry

For contemporary properties, rendered blockwork walls provide clean lines and seamless integration with modern architecture. These walls can be finished in any colour and are particularly effective for creating defined outdoor rooms or pool surrounds.

Engineering Requirements

In Victoria, retaining walls over 600mm require engineering certification. For taller walls - common on Melbourne’s hilly eastern suburbs sites - structural engineering ensures walls are designed to handle:

• Soil pressure and surcharge loads
• Drainage requirements
• Foundation specifications
• Material and construction requirements

We work with experienced structural engineers who specialise in residential retaining applications, ensuring your walls are built to last while meeting all council requirements.

Integrated Design Approach

A retaining wall should never feel like an afterthought. At David Claude, we approach retaining as an integral part of the overall landscape design, considering:

Visual Flow - How walls guide the eye through the garden and create visual rhythm

Planting Opportunities - Terraced levels created by retaining walls offer perfect conditions for cascading plantings and vertical gardens

Access and Circulation - Steps, pathways, and ramps integrated into wall design for seamless movement between levels

Drainage - Proper drainage behind walls is essential for longevity and preventing hydrostatic pressure buildup

Common Applications

Steep Block Solutions

Melbourne’s eastern suburbs - Eltham, Templestowe, Doncaster, and beyond - feature countless properties on steep terrain. Retaining walls transform these challenging sites into usable, beautiful gardens with level areas for lawn, entertaining, and play.

Pool Surrounds

Retaining walls are often essential for pool installations on sloping sites, creating level surrounds while managing the substantial cut and fill involved in pool construction.

Driveway and Entrance Features

Front garden retaining walls create impressive entrances, managing level changes between street and house while adding architectural presence.

Garden Bed Definition

Even on relatively flat sites, low retaining walls can define garden beds, create raised planting areas, and add structure to the landscape.

Your Retaining Project

Whether you’re managing a challenging slope or simply want to add architectural interest to your garden, we can help you find the right retaining solution. Contact us to discuss your site and discover the possibilities.