Lawn Goodbye: Hello Pollinators & San Carlos Stay-Cation

My San Carlos clients contacted me last fall 2021 with their separate desires to update their property. This home is a special property as one of the original 5 homes built in the quaint San Carlos neighborhood near downtown. I had been recommended by neighbors of a former client who had hired me.

See The Urban Suburban Chic Backyard Destination project. January 2015 invitingspacesbykim.wordpress.com

After living in their home for over 18 years and completing the remodeling of their home, my clients decided it was time to work on their outside space. Their house was situated on a small lot. During the initial consultation Kim envisioned a larger courtyard area to create an inviting and useful space. When walking through the backyard the very established Camillia shrub, planted by Ruby the original owner which dominated the space, became an obvious focal point for the new landscaping plan. Ruby’s legacy was a significant part of many conversations through the project.

The project began with several factors to consider: the need to widen the driveway; an inviting path greeting visitors from the sidewalk. Grace’s desire to have pollinator-friendly plantings, specifically butterflies, incorporating several of her father’s personal Japanese Maples and very special smuggled plants from Japan ceremonial incense sacred Buddhist evergreen plant. As well, adding Native and colorful drought tolerant plantings; privacy between neighbors and especially for an updated front walkway into the courtyard and front door; a focal point with the bold blue fountain in the courtyard;

a newly designed wood fence and uniform pavers for the all of the paths; custom shape raised boxes for home farming; an outdoor dining area with a built-in BBQ; a larger area with a fire pit. Most significant, an update of Dana’s love of grass like a golf course but less of it maintaining the intention of less water usage.

Planters Front and Back —-

Different textures and pops of fun color!

Lighting for entrance paths, uplighting trees, evening entertaining and extending the visuals from interior viewing after the sun goes down.

The goal for creating this inviting space is for the next chapter of their life together as their daughter is now off to college. Dana and Grace now have more free time for entertaining friends al fresco and they wanted to have different areas to make that happen. They also wanted their garden to be a respite from the hectic days. Grace wanted a space for renewing her soul – a stay-cation almost as wonderful as putting her toes in the sand when on vacation. There is no place like your own garden to be able to slow down and embrace the gifts you have.

This has been a fun, collaborative and creative project combining distinct areas in a little space. Here’s to finding serenity in a year round oasis!!