the process

Drawing inspiration from Africa’s lush, fertile soil and diverse landscapes rich with native flora and fauna, Environmental Studios transforms living spaces into harmonious reflections of their surroundings. The process ensures that whatever is planted looks as though it was always meant to be there, seamlessly blending into the natural environment. Each design is an enchanting blend of precision, thoughtfulness, and beauty—making every home feel deeply rooted in nature.

the landscape designer gary cox

Gary Cox grew up overlooking the Indian Ocean on South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Lower South Coast. After earning a National Diploma in Landscape Design from Durban Technikon, he embarked on a diverse career that spanned the Lower South Coast, North Coast, and central Durban. His work encompassed a wide range of projects, including beachfront developments, schools, private residences, estate layouts, golf courses, and commercial and industrial landscaping.

A formative chapter in Gary’s career was his time working alongside the late Jeremy Stubbs in the KZN Midlands. Immersed in the region’s mistbelt forests and grassland environments, Gary developed a deep appreciation for the land’s shifting moods and natural rhythms. Under Jeremy’s mentorship, he cultivated a profound understanding of indigenous plant species and the ecological nuances of the South African landscape—an influence that continues to shape his work today.

Gary’s portfolio also includes residential and commercial projects in the Free State, where he gained valuable experience in cold-climate gardening. His passion for landscape design later took him abroad, where he spent four years as Head Gardener at Cranbourne Court, a 6.5-hectare private estate located in the Great Park between Windsor and Ascot in England. There, he led design upgrades, construction projects, and the ongoing maintenance of the estate’s gardens.

His time in the UK allowed him to explore a wide range of international landscapes and cultural influences, traveling extensively through Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama.

Upon returning to South Africa, Gary established Environmental Studios Landscaping, based in KwaZulu-Natal. From his studio, he offers bespoke landscape design and consulting services to a diverse clientele that includes private homeowners, eco-estates, farmers, developers, and architects.

the approach

My preferred approach to garden design begins with a deep understanding of the site and its natural elements. I draw inspiration from the land itself—its light, contours, vegetation, and broader context.

Collaboration is central to the process. I work closely with clients and all parties involved, from architects and designers to builders, ensuring that the project is guided by a shared vision. Successful landscaping requires a multidisciplinary effort, where everyone is aligned toward a cohesive outcome.

A key consideration is how the built structure sits within the broader landscape and how it can be meaningfully integrated into its surroundings. I always design from the inside out—connecting interior spaces with the external environment to create harmony between views, materials, and thematic elements.

Understanding the site’s orientation, or aspect, is fundamental. It influences countless design decisions and informs the most appropriate applications for the space. I see my role as a designer as one that bridges the past with the future—crafting landscapes that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, ergonomic, and enduring.

Scale and proportion are vital tools in shaping the atmosphere of a space. They influence how we feel within it and how we interact with it. I often strive for contrast in my work, as it awakens the senses. Subtle contrasts, though challenging to achieve, can offer the most profound and rewarding experiences.

I believe in protecting and celebrating our natural environment wherever possible, incorporating it thoughtfully into the design process. Sensitive areas deserve careful treatment, guided by respect rather than imposition.

Landscaping, to me, is a dynamic art form—alive and evolving. It embraces diversity through materials, particularly through plants, which transform over time. The goal is not merely instant gratification, but the long-term upliftment of a space.

“Landscaping is four-dimensional.”

the service

Every site—and every client—is unique, and each project requires a tailored approach. All jobs are assessed based on the client’s specific requirements and budget.

the result

lets connect

Environmental Studios is based in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and offers design services in collaboration with contracting firms across South Africa.

Contact:
Gary Cox
073 334 6744
gary@enviromentalstudio.co.za