Harmony Ranch | Harmony, CA

The surrounding coastal hills of this residence are prone to heavy winds and beautiful vistas. In an effort to shield this home from view from the road, a large grassy mound protects the home from prevailing wind and hides it from sight. The native and drought-tolerant grasses flow in the wind and simulate a contemporary version of the surrounding grass-covered hills. A mixture of pervious gravel and modular concrete situate use patterns, while the native mature Oak trees provide instant habitat.

The deer-fenced orchard and vegetable garden features raised planters, composting bins, and a pavilion, mostly constructed with locally sourced redwood.

Landscape Design: Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape | Landscape Construction: Madrone Landscape | Residence Architect: Studio 2G | Residence Contractor: Semmes & Co. Builders, Inc.

Fresh Family Friendly | San Luis Obispo, CA

This custom design build project in San Luis Obispo finishes out a a beautiful new residence tucked into a gradually-sloping site with a majestic oak tree overhead. A new board-form concrete retaining wall levels the project area, creating a nook for a large swim spa just off of the main patio area. One deck encircles the spa, providing for seating and integrated, safe accessibility, while a mirroring deck extends the raised patio space underneath the oak with minimal impact to the tree. A leveled lower patio area functions as a secondary seating area and transition to a large sweeping lawn area. A modern layout of concrete stepping stones connects the upper decking with another, smaller seating area in the corner. An assortment of flowing grasses, hedging plants, ferns, and Japanese maples provide year-long interest, privacy, and vibrance to the space.

Landscape Design Build: Madrone Landscape