In the heart of Queensland’s historic landscape, the enchanting Jimbour House stands as a testament to timeless elegance and rich heritage. Amidst its grandeur, a harmonious blend of beauty and functionality blossoms within the meticulously designed gardens, thanks to the creative vision of esteemed garden designer, Darryl Mappin. Working closely with David and Deborah Russell, the custodians of Jimbour, Darryl’s expertise has brought forth a seamless fusion of architectural marvels and captivating green spaces.
Darryl’s journey into garden design began with transformative experiences during his travels across Europe with his father. “Exploring grand houses and their magnificent gardens ignited my passion for the artistry of outdoor spaces,” Darryl recalls. Encounters with influential designers and a book on Russell Page’s works further shaped his understanding of garden design as an art form.
When David Russell approached Darryl with the opportunity to work on the gardens at Jimbour House, he was immediately captivated. Upon researching the property’s history, Darryl’s interest grew exponentially. Jimbour House’s historic significance, coupled with the chance to realise Russell Page’s principles on such a grand scale, excited him to be part of this exceptional project.
The design process for the northern garden at Jimbour House was a collaborative endeavour. Darryl and the Russells worked together to remove functional elements like a hills hoist and a car park, allowing them to create a garden that harmoniously blended with the house’s architectural splendour. The layout, hedging, and water features were inspired by Russell Page, while incorporating Millicent and Hilary Russell’s original plantings added historical references.
To ensure that the chosen plant species complemented the unique architecture of Jimbour House, Darryl sourced many colourful plantings from Hilary Russell’s original choices. “The colour scheme of blue, white, yellow, and red was carefully curated to harmonise with the architectural features,” he explains. Notably, the two stunning bougainvillaeas, now tamed, serve as vintage features against the house, preserving Millicent Russell’s contributions to the gardens’ history.
David Russell, expressed deep appreciation for Darryl Mappin’s pivotal role in the most recent phase of the Jimbour House Garden design. According to David “Darryl’s involvement in the most recent phase of the Jimbour House Garden design has raised it to a new level and one which we deeply appreciate”. He acknowledged Darryl as a major contributor to the gardens as they stand today, building upon the legacy of David’s grandparents and parents. “He has been a major contributor to the gardens as they now stand, along with the earlier work of my grandparents and parents” This collaboration has brought forth a captivating landscape that celebrates the historic significance and timeless elegance of Jimbour House, creating an enchanting experience for all who visit.
Throughout the design process, Darryl ensured a harmonious balance between the gardens and the architectural features by preserving original plantings, integrating historical elements, and adhering to Russell Page’s design principles. The result is a seamless connection between the gardens and the majestic Jimbour House, creating a sense of unity and serenity.
“The gardens at Jimbour House hold a special place in my heart, especially considering the scale of the project and its historical significance,” Darryl admits. The seasonal changes, particularly the jacaranda avenue in full bloom, create breathtaking approaches to the home. “Sitting in Deborah’s garden at night, with the water features shimmering over the stone capitals, creates a truly magical experience,” he reminisces.
Beyond appreciating the gardens’ beauty, Darryl hopes that visitors grasp the historical significance of Jimbour House and acknowledge the Russell family’s dedication to restoring, maintaining, and enhancing this iconic historical home. As visitors explore the gardens, they are invited to immerse themselves in the rich history and captivating beauty that surrounds Jimbour House, making it an unforgettable experience for all who wander its enchanting grounds. With Darryl’s transformative touch, Jimbour House Gardens stands as a living testament to the enduring magic of artistry and the timeless allure of history.
