Los Angeles

This is an incredible property. The owner not only has extraordinary taste, but was also not afraid to take risks and try unusual things. Building this garden together was an adventure and incredibly rewarding. The location is challenging. It is near the top of a ridge in Laurel Canyon, yet the house itself is located at the bottom of a long, narrow, curved and shared driveway. There are many micro-climates and idiosyncrasies to contend with, including odd sun / shade patterns as well as cold air sinking into small, natural depressions around the site. Coyotes, deer, rabbits and gophers are frequent visitors and must be considered along with the Stella, the resident French bulldog, and the pond full of koi fish. A plant palette of native California plants, succulents and a few exotics provided form, texture and color to offset the bold architecture of the house.