Navajo
TOLUCA LAKE, CA
When you work with homeowners, you often have to find a balance between different tastes. When I first sat down with this wonderful couple, they each had something they wanted to include in the garden. One loved neat, formal gardens, while the other wanted something environmentally conscious that would attract pollinators. We were sure to include plants like Asclepias fascicularis, Echium candicans, Salvia greggii, and Lavandula dentata to attract pollinators like monarchs, hummingbirds, and bees, which we balanced with structured plants like Buxus japonica globes and Cupressus sempervirens.
The water feature, filled with lilies, serves as a centerpiece to the yard. Its gentle sounds and shimmering ripples create atmosphere and bring the space to life. At night, lights at the bottom of the water cast reflections that bounce across the building’s facade, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere.
Since these homeowners love hosting parties and events, we tried to create an inviting atmosphere from the moment you walk up to the front door. The original architect incorporated asymmetrical layering throughout the home’s design, and we wanted to echo that in the planting.
As you approach the house, you pass beneath a large magnolia tree adorned with pendant lights hanging from its branches. At the top of the stairs, a simple seating area offers a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the yard.
Lighting makes a big difference; not only does it highlight the design but makes the space feel warm and welcoming at night. Since we get such great summer weather here in Southern California, I always make lighting a priority so we can spend more time outside enjoying our outdoor spaces even during the hottest months of the year.
These homeowners have an amazing view of a nearby the 4th of July firework show from the comfort of their front yard. To make the most of this, the water feature was designed at bench height so it can double as a a bench during the show.
They wanted their side yard to be more than just a place to charge their cars. This corner of the house always has soft, dappled lighting, making it a perfect spot to relax outdoors in the summer. We added structured plantings, plenty of lighting, and comfortable seating to transform the space.
