Project Description

A traditional white Colonial style house requires a Colonial landscape.  However, in the 21st century, it needs to accommodate the demands of a young, boisterous family, and be environmentally responsible.  The house had stood on this property for several decades, with little change. When our clients purchased the property in 2009, they found the house and landscape to be in need of a major updating. Not only did the house receive a complete make-over, but the landscape was redesigned as kid friendly, for their young family. A new swimming pool, with energy-saving cover and a jumping-off ‘dock’, a patio with an outdoor fireplace, a sport court, are some of the amenities. Fine detailing in fences, gates, planters and stone work speaks to the tradition and craftsmanship of the house. Although the clients desired a large lawn for their young children, the water demand of this is balanced with a low water requiring plant palette which is predominantly Mediterranean and California natives. Many edibles, such as pineapple guava, blueberries, citrus, fig, and artichokes are spotted throughout the garden, with a predominance by the back gate where the vegetable garden is located, and which the children use to come and go from school. A selection of fruit trees and citrus lines the driveway.

Construction: McArdell Landscapes, Aquascape Pools

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Ecological Attributes

  • bioswale for stormwater retention, and to slow downrunoff & erosion

  • permeable paving

  • low water use plant selection
  • lawn area reduced from previous landscape
  • planting to attract beneficial birds, butterflies and insects
  • planting for habitat

  • LED and LED strip lighting

  • defensible space fire management
  • fuel reduction strategies
  • bioswale for stormwater management