To meet our Client’s needs for this project was a challenge. The site had many limitations including topography which limited the depth of the back yard space. Our design included large retaining walls to provide for level area approximately 30 feet form the back of the residence. The design features a meandering garden wall with natural landscaping to provide a natural separation from the edge of the wall. The varying sizes of planting areas were designed to break up the long linear shape of backyard.
The backyard has an upper level with a large patio area that is directly accessible from the residence and could be used for gathering and entertaining. The lower level has landscaped areas with a stone fire pit and built-in seating. The fire pit area offers exceptional views to the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The backyard design also includes a pond less water feature with a series of weirs pouring water out of a large stone wall. The water drops down into a basin filled with river stone that is surrounded by natural landscaping, varying sized boulders, and cut tree stumps. The boulders and stumps add to the natural character of the property and serve as seating areas near the fountain.
The landscape design incorporates many native and shade-tolerant plants, while focusing on mostly evergreen materials with a variety of colors, textures and blooming cycles. Use of native deciduous plant material balances the design and gives the property a natural feeling throughout the year. It was our intent to select plant material to provide year round interest, with vibrant fall color, showy spring blooms, and interesting bark color or textures and find opportunities to use the landscaping as a focal point whenever possible.
Our scope of work for this project also included the design of a terraced garden on the opposite side of the ridge. The Owner purchased an additional lot across the street and wanted to create a “park-like” space. Our design incorporated a series of terraced walls with flowering and fruit trees with a small vineyard. A meandering path traverses the slope and walls down into the multi-level garden space. Small seating areas provide a place to relax and enjoy the views to the surrounding mountain valley below.