Shane Kingsbury has been designing incredible outdoor spaces for years, bringing together creativity, practicality, and a deep understanding of each site. As Co-Director of Inspired Exteriors, he’s all about creating landscapes that not only look amazing but also work beautifully with the home and lifestyle of the people who use them. In this chat, Shane talks about his journey into landscape architecture, how client expectations have changed, and why a well-designed garden is one of the best investments you can make. Whether you’re dreaming of a backyard makeover or just love great design, there’s plenty of inspiration here.
What inspired you to pursue a career in landscape architecture, and how did you come to co-lead Inspired Exteriors?
I actually started out thinking I’d go into architecture, but after sitting in on a Landscape Architecture lecture at UNSW’s open day, I was hooked. I decided to give it a year, and I quickly realised I loved the mix of creativity and problem-solving. After uni, I worked with different design firms and home builders before joining Inspired Exteriors. A couple of years later, Charlie asked me to come on board as a partner, and together we shaped the business into the boutique, design-focused firm it is today – which couldn’t be a better fit for me.
Do you think client expectations in landscape design have changed over the years?
Absolutely. Clients today want more than just a beautiful garden – they’re looking for spaces that are sustainable, easy to maintain, and that truly complement their lifestyle. There’s a much bigger focus on things like water efficiency, biodiversity, and making sure the design compliments the home’s architecture. We take all of this into account, designing custom landscapes that aren’t just beautiful but also practical and built to last. From smart irrigation to drought-tolerant planting, we ensure every garden is crafted to thrive for years to come.
How do you approach designing landscapes that are not only beautiful but also integrate with a site’s natural and architectural features?
For us, great landscape design is all about working with the site, not against it. Every space has its own character – whether it’s an existing pocket of native plants, a unique topography, or a home’s architectural style – and we make sure our designs enhance those elements rather than compete with them. We always consider things like site conditions, sunlight, and the surrounding environment to create gardens that don’t just look beautiful but feel like they truly belong.
Are there any signature design elements or principles you aim to incorporate into every project that is distinctly you?
I’m a sucker for curves – they bring a natural, flowing feel to a space that makes a garden more inviting. Whether it’s curved garden beds, bench seating, or pools, I find organic shapes create a sense of ease and comfort. That said, every design is tailored to the site and client – sometimes crisp, straight lines are the perfect fit. It’s all about balance and making sure the landscape feels right for the space.
What does your role as Co-Director & Principal Landscape Architect entail?
My role is a mix of creative direction and working closely with clients. I’m involved in everything from day-to-day operations to guiding clients through the design process, making sure their vision comes to life. Behind the scenes, I collaborate with our team to refine each design and keep our standards high. When it comes to larger commercial projects, I focus on big-picture planning and coordination, ensuring every detail aligns with the brief and our design philosophy.
With a variety of projects in your portfolio, how do you keep the quality high while still tailoring designs to each client?
It all starts with understanding the client’s vision and pushing creative boundaries to bring it to life. But great design isn’t just about ideas – it’s about execution. That’s why we’ve built strong relationships with top suppliers and manufacturers, ensuring we can source the perfect materials, furniture, and products for each project. This attention to detail means every landscape we create isn’t just beautiful but also built to last.
How do you communicate the value of thoughtful and expert landscape design to clients who may initially see it as an optional expense?
I always emphasise that landscape design is an investment, not an expense. A well-designed garden can really boost the value of your property, but more importantly, it’s a space where your family can gather, unwind, and make memories. When people start to see their garden as an extension of their home, it’s easy to understand how much value it can add. It’s not just about picking the right plants; it’s about creating a space that’ll bring joy for years to come and will continue to pay off in the long run.
What are some of your favourite plant species for creating outdoor spaces that are visually impactful?
Over the years I’ve been inspired by incredible garden designers like Piet Oudolf, Jinny Blom, Tom Stuart-Smith, and Angus Stewart, who have really influenced how I think about planting. But honestly, designing and building my own garden has been a game-changer for me. It’s my personal testing ground, where I get to experiment with different plants and see what works. There’s something so valuable about actually seeing how a plant grows, how much care it needs, and how it thrives in different conditions. Right now, I’m loving plants like Achillea ‘Terracotta’, Ligularia gigantea, Stachys byzantina, Westringia ‘Blue Gem’, Scaevola ‘Purple Fanfare’, and Anemone ‘Snow Angel’. They each bring something special to the table, and when used in the right spots, they really make a garden come to life and stand out.
What steps do you take to ensure clients are fully informed and comfortable throughout the design process, especially when discussing costs and timelines?
I always make sure we’re on the same page from the start, especially when it comes to budgets, timelines, and expectations. I believe that clear communication is the key to making the whole process smooth and stress-free. From the very beginning, we’re open and upfront about what’s involved, so there are no surprises later on. I really encourage clients to share their thoughts and feedback at every step – whether that’s during the initial consult, refining the design, choosing materials, or adjusting things to fit the budget. It’s all about keeping the conversation going and making sure everyone feels comfortable and informed.
For clients considering professional landscape architecture services, what advice would you give to ensure they get the most out of their investment in Inspired Exteriors?
If you’re thinking about investing in professional landscape design, my advice is to focus on how the space will work for you and your family, not just how it looks. A great garden should fit your lifestyle and add lasting value to your property. It helps to have a clear idea of how you want to use the space, but also be open to new ideas. Trusting the process is key! The best results come when we work together, combining your vision with our experience to create something that’s beautiful, practical, and will stand the test of time.
