| 69 T T Sue Russell Landscape company spreads its net wide The bulk of projects are in the residential space. 101 Landscapes “Even though to the total appearance of a home, the landscaping is critical, often it’s the last thing to be given thought to…” CONTRACTING Having cut his teeth working for other landscaping businesses, Andrew Waterman decided eight years ago the time felt right to establish his own Aucklandbased company, 101 Landscapes. Situated on Auckland’s North Shore, the company offers its array of services over an area extending from the city centre right up to Warkworth and everywhere in between. Landscaping services are comprehensive in nature, and Andrew says he likes nothing better than to deliver all aspects of a job, from start to finish. “We undertake a lot of hard landscaping work. It is just myself and one other, so we’re both very hands-on.” When a project is of such a size and scale that outside help or input is required, Andrew has a pool of experienced contractors and designers he can call on. The bulk of projects are in the residential space; however, 101 Landscapes has undertaken work away from the home situation on occasions. Andrew says there’s been enough work coming in consistently to keep things ticking over well, though he acknowledges that the last year or so has been somewhat challenging for the industry generally. Eariler in the year, 101 Landscapes was working on a couple of projects, one for David Reid Homes, based in Greenhithe, and another in Long Bay. “We do quite a lot of work for David Reid. They appreciate the difference it makes when a home has been constructed, to actually complete the outside to a high standard. In terms of street appeal this can make all the difference in the world.” In fact, Andrew would go so far as to acknowledge that the most beautiful house in the street can be “let down” by a lack of attention to its surrounds. He is also keen to help younger people get into the industry. “You know with a bit of practical experience behind you and a network of skilled tradespeople you can call on, landscaping is a good career. It leads in all sorts of directions and it’s challenging, satisfying work.” Andrew notes that often, as one of the last people involved following a build, a landscaper is working with clearly defined, and sometimes, reduced budgets, to pull together a project. “Even though to the total appearance of a home, the landscaping is critical, often it’s the last thing to be given thought to, so over the years we’ve developed good skills in working with a fixed dollar to create a positive and welcoming outdoor appearance that adds real value to the overall build.” He stresses that when owners are working through the planning and costs of a new home, they would certainly benefit from having a pool of funding which has been set aside for the landscaping work, to finish the project off well. “Our go-to landscape supplier is Central Landscapes Supplies.We have used them from the beginning of our 101 Landscapes journey. “We love the wide range of quality products and the friendly service they provide from all of their Auckland branches.” Andrew has dyslexia and acknowledges that learning was always easier when a project could be approached in a hands-on practical way. “I think this is actually a strength to bring into the business. “I can see what will work and what won’t from a realistic perspective, based on years of doing.” Looking ahead, Andrew feels this year will tick along quite positively. He advertises through Facebook, and says this is a good way for him to put out lots of images and keep followers up to date on the latest project at hand.
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