In an additional effort to conserve water while also contributing to the native plant and wildlife populations, we use drought tolerant perennial plants such as Echinacea and Salvia in our designs to attract pollinators and shrink the planting area of the thirsty annual flowers. The results were healthy plants, water savings and a happy customer.

Complete reimagining of this front yard entry to create massive curb appeal. Thirsty front lawn was removed and terraced to create multi-level space. Dramatic architectural entry was created with an elegant stone walkway greeting guests at curb, flanked by lightposts to guide their way and an integrated undulating retaining wall. Drought tolerant and low maintenance landscaping installed with a river rock mulch.

This custom home is an elegant paradise. It boasts an effortless flow from the open kitchen and lounge areas, to the outdoor pool and back again. And the prominently placed wet bar is always there at your disposal if you get thirsty along the way. These empty nesters love to cook, socialize, and enjoy the good life, and their meticulous attention to detail meant that every nook and corner fits perfectly into the big picture. High-end finishes and light fixtures are just the thing to accompany a vaulted living room and customized cabinetry in every room. Even the beloved family dog was taken into consideration and now has his own dedicated dog wash in the laundry room. The result is nothing short of spectacular, and we might be feeling just a little jealous that we didn’t get to keep this home for ourselves at the end of the project.

To create this landscape overlooking the Pacific Ocean just south of Santa Barbara, we terraced what was formerly a long, sloping, and water-thirsty grass lawn and planted the layers with drought-tolerant native plants. Dry-stacked stone retaining walls with integrated drainage add structural stability, and two levels of flagstone patio enable the owners to take full advantage of the balmy Mediterranean climate zone and ocean views. Pat Brodie Landscape Design Kurt Jordan Photography