When this family relocated from Chicago to Sunnyvale, they traded a larger home for an 1,800-square-foot residence in the heart of Silicon Valley. With both parents working from home, the outdoor space needed to function as a true extension of the house—supporting daily routines, moments of retreat, and active family life.

The challenge was clear: a compact yard, a two-level floor plan, and a long list of priorities.

They envisioned a garden that could accommodate multiple uses at once—comfortable lounging, hot tub access, dining and entertaining, lush planting, and dedicated space for vegetable gardening and rotating seasonal planters. All of this had to fit within a limited footprint, while remaining visually calm and connected to the home’s upper-level living spaces.

Our approach focused on organization, elevation, and clarity of use.

Rather than treating the yard as a single open area, the garden was divided into a series of outdoor “rooms,” each with a clear purpose. Large-format concrete pavers and gravel joints establish structure and rhythm, while allowing water to drain naturally and softening the overall composition. Built-in planters provide opportunities for edible gardens and changing plant palettes without consuming valuable floor space.

A lower lounge zone anchors the garden, centered around a fire feature and framed by layered planting for privacy and softness. Above, a dining and gathering area connects directly to the home, covered by a pergola that defines space while maintaining light and openness. The hot tub is integrated discreetly into the layout, accessible yet visually balanced within the broader design.

Throughout the garden, planting was used intentionally—not as filler, but as a functional element. Evergreen screening creates enclosure, while a mix of texture and seasonal interest brings the landscape to life without overwhelming the small footprint.

The result is a garden that feels larger than it is—one that supports work, rest, and play in equal measure. By carefully layering uses and responding to the home’s vertical layout, the outdoor space now offers the flexibility and richness of a much larger property, thoughtfully tailored to a modern family’s daily life.

Opulands is a family-owned Bay Area company specializing in comprehensive landscape and hardscape design and installation. We transform outdoor spaces into stunning retreats by blending softscaping elements like lawns and gardens with hardscaping features such as paver driveways, patios, and outdoor kitchens. Our team is dedicated to creating functional and opulent environments that enhance your lifestyle. Experience the beauty and functionality of a meticulously designed outdoor space. Call us today at 800-239-6658 for more information.