ELENA

In the midst of the bustle of the San Francisco Bay Area we created this richly layered, lived-in landscape appropriately scaled to the needs of a very active California family. Surrounding a reimagined Monterey Colonial home, this sun drenched site allowed us the opportunity to create distinct outdoor living spaces each with its own unique flavor.

Courtyards of crushed gravel and Texas Limestone capture the warmth of the afternoon light through the foliage of mature live oak and Redwood trees surrounding the site, while lush play lawns and a swimming pool activate outdoor living areas that are anchored by groupings of olive, and dogwood trees. Antique limestone basins are repurposed into fire and water features to provide gathering points for family conversation and connection.

Mediterranean climate plantings are well suited to this dry site, and are grouped according to the sun and shade patterns. The strong foliage variations are grouped into balanced, aesthetically pleasing compositions. The silvery hues of the olives, the rich greens of the Rosemary, and Laurel combine to exude a soothing calm inviting the family to linger. A classic from the 1920’s is now revived to be equally livable and relevant for generations into the 21st century.