Who We Are
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Niwa is the Japanese word for garden. We draw on the philosophy of wabi-sabi to create layered green spaces perfectly suited for contemporary living.
Connecting people with nature is at the heart of what we do. We believe that every garden has its own character and that intuitive design goes beyond aesthetics; it reflects your personality and responds to your needs to create a space that’s truly unique.
OUR CORE VALUES
Connection: We believe that everyone has a subconscious desire to connect with nature. Using biophilic design and the concept of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), we create green spaces that are immersive and restorative.
Respect: With an intimate knowledge of how, where and why plants grow, we use the ideal species for every location based on its individual microclimate. Where possible, we aim to use sustainably sourced materials.
Quality: We believe that a great garden design is the foundation for a thriving green space. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the design process; we connect clients with a trusted team of suppliers and nurseries to ensure the best materials and plants are used for your space.
Innovation: With an award-winning principal designer, we believe that site-specific challenges are the seed of growth.
Communication: We are committed to being honest and accountable to our clients, suppliers and contractors.
Meet Ben
Inspired by his love of the Australian landscape and influenced by his Japanese heritage, Ben created NIWA Designs.
Ben is a creative thinker, plant enthusiast and people person. When he’s not working, you’ll find him rock-climbing, surfing or getting his hands dirty gardening and creating things. Ben has a passion for wellbeing and believes that gardens can heal, restore and bring people together.
Over the years, Ben has travelled the world to see a variety of different plants in their natural habitats, in botanic gardens and in private gardens. Through these trips, he has experienced the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and the work of iconic landscape architects including Isamu Noguchi and Roberto Burle Marx, which influence his work. Ben has been inspired by the magnitude of Yosemite National Park, the beauty of autumn leaves in Kyoto, the rawness of remote conservation areas of South America and the horticultural skill of Gardens by the Bay in Singapore. When on home soil Ben is constantly inspired by Australian landscapes, daily mindfully connecting to the beach and bushland, taking note of the perfect imperfections found in nature.
With over 16 years of horticultural experience and 7 years landscape design experience, Ben has been involved in designed stunning commercial and residential greenspaces including inner-city courtyards, coastal homes and public spaces.
Photography by Andrea Aschner of Asch Creative
Ben Miura - Principal Landscape Designer and Creative Director of NIWA Designs.
Awards
Ben is a multi-award winning landscape designer.
Ben was the Senior Landscape Designer for eight projects recognised by The Australian Institute of Landscape Designers and Managers (AILDM).
2020
AILDM Plantscape Design – Finalist – Landsberg Garden Design
AILDM Residential Landscape Design Less Than 50 sq. m. – Finalist – Landsberg Garden Design
2019
AILDM Plantscape Design – Gold – Landsberg Garden Design
AILDM Residential Landscape Design less Less Than 50 sq. m. – Sliver – Landsberg Garden Design
AILDM Landscape Design Rooftop – Gold – Quercus Gardens
AILDM Residential Landscape Design 50 – 150 sq. m. – Silver – Quercus Gardens
2017
AILDM Residential Landscape Design less than 50 sq. m. – Gold – Querucs Gardens
2016
AILDM Residential Landscape Design less than 51-150 sq. m. – Gold – Quercus Gardens