Projects

Muddy and bare backyard to sunken private garden

Before: The backyard of this corner lot house had no privacy, and no where to go but up.

After: A flagstone patio, over a french drain, surrounded by plants with a tropical vibe.

Before: The sloping backyard had a parking space but little room for respite or outdoor dining

After: A retaining wall creates a level terrace filled with lush groundcovers and an arbor with twining wisteria

Before: The view from the back deck was obscured by bamboo and dominated by a parked car

After: A statue of St. Francis presides over a lush, meditative landscape of fruit trees, roses and low-water groundcovers

Before: Dry grass didn't beckon the family outdoors. The row of shrubs becomes the future privacy hedge.

After: A semi-private front yard seating area, surrounded by water-wise plants.

In use: Redbud leaves and drinks glow gold in the afternoon light

Before: The family dog loved digging up the bark around the trampoline

Planting day: A patio of dig-proof pavers. The maple and groundcovers will drink up the overflow from an outdoor shower, not pictured

Before: The cracked former driveway before the plants arrived.

In use: A garden party (even on a winter night) enlivened by bistro lights, potted olive trees and curved concrete cuts for creeping thyme

Before: Newly constructed

retaining wall and bare earth.

After: The stark wall is softened with spreading groundcovers. The pop of orange flowers adds zest to the white background.