Woman sitting in front of modern house with two dogs, one small and one large, surrounded by well-maintained garden.

Intentionality, Originality & Creativity

CREATED BY SHONA WITH

SM Garden Designs is the result of this passion, founded with the goal of transforming outdoor spaces into inviting, functional, and aesthetically stunning retreats. I understand that while many people dream of having a beautiful garden, they often feel overwhelmed by where to start or how to bring their vision to life. That’s where I come in - helping clients navigate the design process, whether it's crafting lush garden beds, creating elegant entertaining areas, or designing pathways that invite exploration and relaxation.

A Look At The History Of S M Garden Designs

Clients To Date

76

20

Years Experience

120k

Plants Planted

Outdoor patio with a table, chairs, and potted plant

A FEW OF
our FAVOURITE
GARDEN CREATIONS

LANDSCAPING

Bougainvillea plant with vibrant pink flowers growing in a large beige pot next to a window.

PLANT SELECTION

A garden with white flowers, lush greenery, and a beige house with a metal roof under a clear blue sky.

GARDEN TRANSFORMATIONS

FROM THE BEGINNING

Forged From Love

Hello, I’m Shona McIntosh, and I’m delighted to share my passion for gardens with you. For over 20 years, I have nurtured a deep love for creating beautiful outdoor spaces that reflect the personality and lifestyle of those who call them home. What began as a personal passion has grown into something far more meaningful - a way to help others design gardens that bring joy, tranquillity, and connection to nature.

Every garden has a story to tell, and my role is to bring that story to life. I work closely with clients to create spaces that feel natural, cohesive, and uniquely suited to their needs. My design philosophy blends creativity with practicality, ensuring that every element serves both an aesthetic and functional purpose.

When designing country gardens, I am particularly drawn to a balance of formal and informal styles, using clean, symmetrical lines to highlight key entrances and focal points. I love incorporating a mix of shrubs, roses, and perennials to create year-round visual interest, and I have a deep appreciation for deciduous trees - their striking architectural beauty in winter and lush fullness in summer make them an essential feature in many of my designs.

A well-designed garden starts with careful planning and preparation. Understanding your space - its soil quality, climate, and water availability - is essential in selecting the right plants and design elements. Whether the goal is to create a privacy screen, establish wind and dust protection, or introduce shade for a more comfortable outdoor environment, having a clear vision is key to long-term success.

My love for gardening was deeply influenced by my mother and mother-in-law, both avid gardeners who instilled in me an appreciation for nature and the joy of cultivating beautiful landscapes. Today, I live in Goondiwindi, on the border of Queensland and New South Wales, with my husband and our three boys. Our home and surroundings continually inspire my work, reinforcing my belief that a well-designed garden is not just about aesthetics - it’s about creating a space where families can connect, unwind, and build lasting memories.

I look forward to helping you bring your dream garden to life - one that not only enhances your home but also enriches your everyday life.

Child climbing down wooden structure with treehouse, surrounded by trees and garden.

Client Appreciation

Feeling overwhelmed with the prospect of starting a new garden from scratch, we enlisted Shona’s help in drawing up a plan. She was able to create a garden that will not only be a beautiful outdoor space, but also ensures practical solutions for shade and dust control. The level of detail and thoughtfulness is exceptional and Shona’s helpful and approachable manner throughout the process, made the experience enjoyable and stress free.”

E. Woods North Star NSW
Sunlight illuminating white flowering bushes along a gravel path bordered by trees.

Gallery

Purple-flowering tree in a landscaped garden
Sunset with white flowers lining a gravel path surrounded by trees.
Garden with white roses, green shrubs, pathway, and a house with a metal roof under a clear blue sky.
Bougainvillea plant with vibrant pink flowers in a large beige planter in front of a window.
Outdoor patio with metal chairs, a small table with a decorative object, and potted plant by a building wall.
Garden scene with pink flowers in a pot, lush green grass, and trees in the background.
Lush garden with trees, flowers, and grass during daylight.
White pergola with climbing plants in a garden with flowering shrubs and trees in the background.
People gathered in a park with green grass and trees
Garden pathway with stone steps surrounded by lush green foliage and white flowering plants, leading to a house with a metal roof.
Garden path with stepping stones and manicured bushes
Single-story house with veranda, plants, and a metal roof under a clear sky.

Your Garden, Our Expertise 

Share your vision with us – tell us about your garden and the dreams you have for it. We’ll be in touch to discuss how we can turn that vision into reality. Whether you have a clear idea of what you want or are seeking expert guidance, you’ve come to the right place.