New lease on life for garden

LE JARDIN Garden Centre in Flaxton reopened on July 18 after a seven week $100,000 renovation.

The 95-year-old property and one acre of gardens had a major facelift.

Owner Brigitte Schiffer said she and partner Mal Lowe purchased the centre more than three years ago and it was a work in progress.

"The centre has been open a lot longer but we really wanted to create something very special here and keep with the historical ambiance of the property," Brigitte said.

"The house on site was one of the first built in Flaxton around 95 years-ago. It was built by the Dixons for their daughter.

"It is a beautiful space and we have turned it into something even more beautiful with the garden centre.

"We boast the biggest selection of roses on the Coast and specialise in old world roses with more than 70 varieties."

And after the seven week renovation, the centre has taken on a French provincial theme and re-opened with a new cafe, function deck and repaired miniature village.

"We have increased the function area and built a deck with covering for wet weather, the kitchen has doubled in size and the cafe has been fully renovated," Brigitte said.

"Everything has been repainted a creamy white colour and we spent three days fixing up the lighting and electrical in the village room."

The biggest challenge the couple faced was repairing the miniature village which had been around for more than 40 years.

"It was neglected for a long time but it has great historical value and is incredibly unique so we had to fix it up.

"We have created the inside space so the boutique gift shop spills out into the miniature village and opens up the room.

"When I was changing the village around it was very nostalgic, it took me back to my childhood."

Although Le Jardin re-opened yesterday, Brigitte said the centre was still a work in progress.

"There is still so much we want to do to keep growing and changing," Brigitte said.

"I want to create a kitchen garden space within a few weeks with a real rustic feel and grow fruits, vegies and herbs.

"We also want to push the outdoor function deck and cater to birthdays, showers, and small events."

The newly renovated cafe will offer a selection of cakes made by three local chefs.

"We want top notch products. And the cafe already has a huge following because our food is locally made or made on site using local products," Brigitte said.

Le Jardin Garden Centre is located at 342 Flaxton Drive, 54457077 or sales@lejardingarden.com.au.