California Water Wise Landscaping

This California water wise landscaping project had its share of upsides that ultimately led to the perfect design for its residents. Talk about silver linings…. this property used to have a pool in the backyard. The clients pursued repairs for an obvious leak in the pool but ultimately decided it was too costly. And when they didn’t really enjoy or use the pool all that much it became an easy decision to abandon the pool, fill it in and start anew. With the impetus of a gaping hole in their backyard the couple decided to do a makeover for the entire property. In the front yard they wanted a designated front walk from the sidewalk to the front door. Adding new wrought iron fencing was also important to enclose portions of the front yard. Removing the lawn was another factor in the overall design. Adding a new walk and steps of interlocking pavers to the front door and stoop was one of the first of many new features of this San Diego landscape design in Sorrento Valley.

Removing the lawn gave way to the inspiration of creating a new side yard with a spot for seating and flagstone pathways. Incorporating a new concrete bench offered casual seating to enjoy the new colorful plantings which attracted hummingbirds and butterflies, all being very low maintenance and low water choices.

Having a blank slate in the backyard and so much more room without the pool the overall goal was to offer new outdoor living opportunities. A new fire pit on a circular patio of pavers included built in seating with a curved wood to allow the users to rest their backs against. A second round patio of pavers with a pergola set the stage for a new dining space. Bridging these areas were dry laid flagstones with a groundcover planted in the joint lines. Mixing the two elements of pavers and flagstone can be tricky, but the outcome here was quite seamless as the two hardscape elements were complimentary to one another. Saving some existing palms and yuccas did help create a more mature look and feel once the new plants were added. The clients were not expecting to have a major expense of entire new yard but certainly were very happy for so many new features that allowed them to have more positive experiences in their own home’s outdoor spaces while remaining water wise in their approach to the new landscape.