This side yard has perfect proportions, beginning with its width, which is equal to the height of the architecture (this is an often-used design technique — imagine flipping down your house on its side into the yard — to calculate the dimensions of a garden space).Longer than it is wide, the side garden is nicely divided into thirds, and each slender band plays a part to create its drama and energy.To the left, against the home: A colorful bed with permanent plantings closer to the structure and seasonal plantings at the edge.At center: A graphic walkway comprising 30-inch-square pavers. I love the rhythmic vibe of this treatment. The strong lines have a magnetic quality that holds the entire side garden together and leads the eye to the seating area/patio as its destination.To the right, furthest from the home: An allee of trees. They will soon mature to visually offset the weight of the architecture — and give this side garden a sense of enclosure. Brilliant!