One goal for this project was to initiate a particular ambiance and identity with the front yard and entryway and continue the same into the backyard. Enhancing privacy for backyard activities was a major consideration.

Overall space is not extensive. This landscape project is on a typical, or slightly smaller than normal lot on which the home inhabits a large footprint. One challenge was to define separate usage areas without producing a feeling of reduced scale or crowding.

Starting at the sidewalk in front, we use low maintenance plants that are selected to provide varying color and texture, height ranges, and shade areas.

The stone walk provides an instant transition from "city" concrete to a "casually elegant", custom entrance .

In the back yard we augment existing rock to create a sculpted hillside that looks natural and integral to the site. This elevation blocks sight lines and provides a solid barrier for privacy enhancement. There is no artificial feel at all. Fencing is completely out of sight. The home's occupants have a scenic dale in which to meditate or entertain.

Variety and depth of color, as well as sustainable low maintenance are provided by careful selection of plants and by incorporating a seemingly random locating pattern for individual plants.

Variations in texture add interest and depth to this not-overly-large yard space. Notice that each plant's leaves are evocative of a particular mood. Wispy, feathery fronds, to sharp needles, some upright and others bowing under their own weight, the viewer's eye is never bored.

River rock establishes a natural backdrop while inhibiting weeds and erosion.

Formal lawn area gives way gently, with no formal border, to more natural edge plantings. Note that a trimable edge is maintained throughout.

Tucked away in the taller foliage is a meditative spot with rustic bench. Removed from line of sight from most of the yard, this is a place to watch birds and wildlife, read, or simply sit. Proximity to more formal entertainment areas detracts little from this hideaway.

The backdrop of almost solid plant life, taller than the yard fence, is mirrored by tall leafy plantings between the entertainment patio and the more private retreat.

A place in the sun!

Literally a center spot for sun lovers and those who love casual entertainment. Level stonework provides an easily maintained solid surface for traffic and entertainment.

At night, the warmth from the stones will radiate into any gathering and invite guests to stay just a bit longer.

The house becomes an attribute of this lovely outdoor homescape. Surrounded by color and a completely natural setting, our homeowner can accommodate family and guests or sit quietly in a soothing meditative niche.

Suburbia has taken a leave of absence. Welcome home to the outdoors.

more project photos...