Steps
Step 1
What we started with was just a bare corner.
Step 2
We measured out the space we wanted and then started levelling off the space with sand as it had a bit of a slope in the corner. About 3.5 x 3.5m.
This was a HUGE workout transferring sand we had at the side of the house and transferring it to this corner - no gym day required.
Step 3
It was now time to start building the planter box with bench seat. Due to the location we built the back of the planter box off site and then moved it into place.
First step was to cut the posts to the height we wanted the planter box and bench seats.
We then treated the timber posts with a timber protector to protect them against rot.
Step 4
We pre-dug the holes for the posts to sit in and added cement to the bottom for stability. We used builders line to make sure our holes were in the correct positions. The "measure twice cut once" thing is pretty similar to holes, we learned that pretty quickly.
I did use the pincer post hole digger but I found a smaller shovel did a better job.
Step 5
We attached 3m long treated pine timber sleepers to our pine posts and moved them into place.
Once we were happy with the levels, we cemented in the posts.
Step 6
We then started to build out the frame for the bench seat and also the planter box. We also lined the interior of the planter box with plastic and drilled holes through the plastic and the bottom of the planter box to ensure water doesn't get bogged but when the sleepers move, no soil would spill out of the sides.
Step 7
Once all the framing was complete and the planter box finished, it was time to paint. We used left over fence paint in monument.
Step 8
We really wanted some natural timber accents so we used left over merbau decking for the seat. We sanded each board right back and stained it with a neutral timber oil.
Turns out an detail sander takes forever so I quickly switched to a belt sander. WOW what an arm and core workout - again no gym required this day.
Step 9
Once the boards were screwed onto the planter box seat frame we realised we needed to sand back again where the screws were and re-stain. So word of advice is to attach the boards, do a final sand then stain.
Step 10
We planted birds of paradise, banana palms, and bungalow palms. I think it is slightly bare so we will look to add more between each large plant, any suggestions are welcomed!
We also realised that our dog figured out if she climbs onto the planter box she can chat with the neighbours, so we quickly added some fence extensions. However, we think this made the green of the plants pop!
We love our new space and look forward to summer memories being made here.
