Cairns Landscape Architects
Experience in the Cairns Region
Cairns, situated in Far North Queensland, Australia, boasts a diverse range of landscapes that highlight its rich natural beauty and ecological significance. The region is home to the Daintree Rainforest, one of the world’s oldest rainforests, and the Wet Tropics, both of which are World Heritage-listed areas known for their lush vegetation and incredible biodiversity. Additionally, the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the world, lies just off the coast, offering vibrant coral formations and a stunning marine ecosystem.
The coastal areas of Cairns feature picturesque beaches like Palm Cove and Trinity Beach, where palm-fringed sands and clear blue waters attract numerous visitors. Mangroves and estuaries, such as those found at the Cairns Esplanade and Holloways Beach, provide crucial habitats for various plant and animal species. Inland, the region transitions into the Atherton Tablelands, a fertile plateau known for its rolling hills, waterfalls, and agricultural richness, as well as the Kuranda Range, which offers scenic views and rainforest trails.

The coastal areas of Cairns feature picturesque beaches like Palm Cove and Trinity Beach, where palm-fringed sands and clear blue waters attract numerous visitors. Mangroves and estuaries, such as those found at the Cairns Esplanade and Holloways Beach, provide crucial habitats for various plant and animal species. Inland, the region transitions into the Atherton Tablelands, a fertile plateau known for its rolling hills, waterfalls, and agricultural richness, as well as the Kuranda Range, which offers scenic views and rainforest trails.
Cairns also encompasses unique wetland areas and dramatic waterfalls like Barron Falls and Josephine Falls, which are particularly impressive during the wet season. The savannah and woodlands further inland feature more arid landscapes with open woodlands and grassy plains. In contrast, the urban landscapes of Cairns City blend tropical gardens, waterfront parks, and urban infrastructure, creating a harmonious balance with the natural surroundings. These varied landscapes make Cairns a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and tourists seeking a wide range of natural attractions.
Cairns Regional Council Landscape Design Requirements
The Cairns Regional Council has specific landscape design requirements to ensure developments align with the region’s environmental and aesthetic standards.
Key elements include the need for comprehensive landscape plans that address site-specific conditions such as soil type, existing vegetation, and drainage patterns. These plans must detail the selection and placement of plants, emphasizing the use of native species to enhance local biodiversity and reduce water consumption. Additionally, the council requires designs to incorporate features that minimize erosion and manage stormwater effectively, such as swales, permeable surfaces, and retention basins (Cairns Regional Council).
Furthermore, landscape designs must consider public safety and accessibility. This includes:
- ensuring clear sightlines for pedestrians and vehicles
- adequate lighting
- and accessible pathways that comply with relevant standards.
The Cairns Regional Council also mandates the inclusion of amenities like seating, shade structures, and waste receptacles to enhance the usability of public spaces.
Regular maintenance plans must be established to keep the landscaped areas well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing. Developers are also encouraged to engage with the community to ensure the landscaping meets local needs and expectations.
Citicene are landscape architects based in Brisbane, Queensland. We have broad experience across the state of Queensland and also Australia including the Cairns region.
Landscape Architecture and Design Projects delivered in Cairns
From Telstra and Optus telecommunication towers to individual landscapes for commercial developments, Citicene have delivered a range of projects across the Cairns region.
Citicene have the flexibility to work across Queensland and Australia including any projects in Cairns. Contact Citicene to learn more about how we can assist.