While this simple landscape incorporated good materials and healthy plants, the low, monochromatic plantings didn’t add to the home’s presence or provide interesting views from indoors. In fact, they made the minimally adorned stucco exterior feel monolithic and bare.
As so often happens with smaller properties, the planting beds, trees and shrubs were scaled down with the intent of maximizing the outdoor space. The result, however, was an environment that lacked visual appeal and didn’t begin to meet its full potential.
Surrounding a beautiful mid-century home, this landscape had great potential, but was suffering from lack of attention. Decades-old hardscape was in decline—the asphalt drive had become unattractive and unsafe, rainwater collected in cracks and low points in the patio, and stone seatwalls were crumbling. Trees and plants had been suffering too, in this especially shady garden with significant drainage issues. It seemed that only the invasive buckthorn was thriving.
Simply put, the landscape didn’t provide the attractive views or inviting backdrop for entertaining that the homeowners desired. Today, however, the landscape impresses from the front entry to the expansive patio and beyond. Colorful new plantings, healthy trees, and the addition of sophisticated stonework and low-voltage lighting set just the right tone for lively gatherings.
