A long time client needed a new backyard. Before I started the project, the overgrown vegetation was very tall, and there was no place to sit. A friend had told the owner, that a mountain lion could be living in the yard and no one would know. Gates and fences divided the space which made it feel small.
On demo day I flattened everything with a bobcat giving me a blank slate. I installed a concrete block perimeter wall in lieu of redwood fencing because the wall will hold up better over time and is less maintenance. The home is located off a busy street and the wall significantly reduces traffic noises for the homeowner.
I then installed a French drain to remove excess rain water, irrigation and concrete pads for the wine barrel planters, a lawn, raised garden beds. We wanted to leave the space open for having and easy flow for entertaining guests. A large patio of Arizona sandstone tile was installed. The patio is easy maintenance and adds color and texture and defines the space.
The owners enjoy time with the garden growing fruits and vegetables. It was important to create a space that was usable and peaceful for them to enjoy. I created raised garden beds from redwood, I installed a food grade plastic liner on the inside to prevent wood decay, I also installed a wire mesh under the boxes to prevent gophers or other critters from getting in.
The new space is being greatly enjoyed without any chance of mountain lions hiding in the weeds.