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A
mature Valley Oak is the driving influence behind this rear yard design
for a Craftsman-Style residence. A meandering bluestone path weaves
around the oak tree, while a stone patio set on sand allows for ample
seating. Craftsman-style wood detailing such as the gridded trellis
unify the house and landscape |
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The
location for the portable gas barbecue is defined with an FSC Certified
Redwood arbor. Low volt lighting in the arbor allows for after dark
cooking. The stone patio is set on sand, not mortar, allowing rain
water to percolate into the soil under the oak tree. Wine
barrels purchased from a local vineyard serve as inexpensive vegetable
planters that give the space a rustic feel. |
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The
small curvalinear area of mowed turf was designed as a playspace for
a young grandchild. A billowing meadow with grasses such as Festuca
californica provides a more natural and drought tolerant transition
under the oak tree. The meadow was seeded with annual California wildflowers:
Poppies, Gillia, Yarrow, and Clakia, which bloom in flushes of color.
Over time, the grasses have filled in and provide a permanent cover
for the meadow. |
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A
custom 'bubbling rock' fountain was created from a locally quarried
rock. The water feature has a 'vanishing' basin, which provides a
natural look as well as a safety maintenance benefits. Many species
of birds are drawn to the bubbling water. Adirondak chairs provide
a casual seating area |
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The
front yard features a custom fence that steps down as it nears the
sidewalk and a dry-stack wall with boulders. This feature gives the
small front yard interest and a subtle grade change. |
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The
side yard is defined by a custom bult craftsman style fence and trash
enclosure. An existing wisteria arbor was extendedto create a focal
point off the dining room window. The existing driveway was sawcut
to provide a smaller patio space that blends into a crushed stone
walkway. |
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