Half of this Coral Gables townhouse courtyard was completely unusable space -- bare dirt surrounded by dying ficus shrubs. Because the heavy shade and root competition from existing oaks would make growing grass an uphill battle, we instead decided to continue the existing Chicago brick patio into a large walkway that would double as usable patio space for entertaining guests. Elevating the soil level solved a previous grade problem that left a drain overexposed and unable to channel runoff water. Plants that do well in dappled shade such as liriope, purple tibouchina, perennial begonias, and phalaenopsis orchids, provide a tasteful burst of color while respecting the dignified character of the brickwork. Japanese podocarpus replaces the ficus shrubs as a much cleaner and more elegant privacy hedge.