For a client that loves to garden, we created lots of areas to plant around a relatively small grassy area for dogs. Vegetable gardens are tucked into the traditionally underutilized side yard, where there is plenty of sun.

Traditional garden plants such as roses and salvias mix with edible plants such as artichokes, herbs orange trees and olive trees. Xeric shrubs provide structure in this dynamic space.

A dryset limestone patio creates a sitting area that doesn't interrupt the function of the grassy space. A kitchen garden by the porch incorporates herbs into an attractive and fragrant planting for easy access while cooking. A creek bed along the side of the yard directs water to the front yard.

A required drainage berm was amended with great soil and planted with traditional garden plants, xeric shrubs, and edible plants. The berm creates a nice backdrop for a small sitting area.