This is an example of a mid-sized farmhouse full sun side yard landscaping in Philadelphia.

Creating 5-10 feet of defensible space around a home is key. After directly addressing the home's vulnerabilities to collecting embers, we planted low-lying, mostly-native foliage to protect the home from rolling embers. Should the home catch fire, this space also gives fire fighters safe space to address issues. Photo: Lesly Hall Photography

Custom water feature
Photo of a small southwestern drought-tolerant and full sun front yard stone water fountain landscape in San Diego for summer.

While homes in the urban wildlife interface (UWI) face greater fire dangers, homeowners can choose to make them much safer. By conscientiously addressing architectural vulnerabilities (home hardening), homeowners protect firefighters and reduce their chances of losing a home. An ember resistant Zone 0, effectively spaced and placed foliage supported with smart irrigation, and conscientious maintenance can add further defenses. Photo: Lesly Hall Photography

The first step of fire defense involves addressing the home's structure, as most homes ignite when embers access the interior of the home or build on the home's dry, flammable materials. The owners have taken a few key steps to address their home's vulnerabilities. They have also engaged the Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains to get a free assessment of the home's vulnerabilities as well as its "Zone 0," the first 5 feet around the home. Right now, a deep brick drive at the front of the home provides safe space for fire fighters to work should they need to defend the home.

Scott Burrows
Trendy gender-neutral medium tone wood floor and brown floor playroom photo in Brisbane with white walls

Design ideas for an eclectic landscaping in London.

While most every home has and needs rain gutters, they too can catch flying embers and hold them at the base of the roof. Here, we've addressed that vulnerability by placing a fine wire mesh over the top of all gutters, preventing the collection of both embers and leaf liter. From this view, it is possible to see that the elevation of the ember-catching trees protects the elevated deck side of the home. Note that the golden seed heads seen here are from a hydrated, native Deer Grass, not invasive arson grasses like Feather, Fountain or Pampas. Photo: Lesly Hall Photography