A custom patio surrounded by easy maintenance shade plants. river rocks aid in drainage and add interesting texture. Evergreen shrubs are balanced with a variety of colorful annuals, perennials and small trees to make this new landscape attractive and easy to maintain. The narrow side yard was transformed from wasted space to a lush conduit to the backyard flagstone patio. Natural river rock swales were created to better manage irrigation drainage and create visual interest. Hardy shade tolerant perennials and color surround the back patio, creating a lush and private retreat. Jeff Christian, The C2 Group