Estate Front Yard
Succulent Serenity
A thirsty front lawn replaced with sculptural succulents, river-rock detailing and a geometric concrete drive. Low water, plenty of character.
How this project came together
The challenge
A concrete driveway with gravel either side, a brick wall, and mature planting around the perimeter. Out front, two sections of lawn split by a paver and gravel walk, with a drain pipe running exposed along the entry path. We recorded spot elevations, the existing walls and the property lines.
The design decision
The lawn came out and a drought-tolerant front garden went in. Modern concrete pads, smooth stucco walls and gravel inlays give the entry its structure. Swapping one ground cover for another wouldn't have changed how the front of this house works. The geometry had to change with it.
The build
The planting runs on agave, blue chalksticks and phormium for texture and color, with silver carpet groundcover standing in for the lawn. LED path lights and wall washers pick out the design and keep the entry usable at night.
The Design Process
From survey to buildable plan
Every project is measured, drawn, and approved before a shovel goes in the ground. These are the actual drawings for this property.
-
100%Base Plan
This base plan shows an existing property with a central residence and attached garage. The site features a concrete driveway leading to the garage, bordered by gravel areas, a brick wall, and mature perimeter vegetation. The front yard includes two lawn sections separated by a walkway composed of pavers and gravel, with an exposed drain pipe along the entry path. Utility placements, including spot elevations, existing walls, and property lines, are identified to inform future landscape development.
-
100%Conceptual Plan
This conceptual landscape plan features modern concrete pads, smooth stucco walls, and gravel inlays to create a clean, contemporary entry. Drought-tolerant plantings such as Agave, Blue Chalksticks, and Phormium provide texture and color, while Silver Carpet groundcover replaces traditional lawn. Integrated LED path lights and wall washers highlight the design and improve nighttime visibility.
Before We Built It
The space, rendered in 3D
Homeowners approve a photorealistic model of their own property before construction starts, so what gets built is what they signed off on.
Before & After
The property as we found it
Drag the handle to see the same view before construction began.
Before After
Finished Project
Succulent Serenity in detail
5 photographs of the completed project.
Planning something like this?
We build Complete Landscape Design, Planting and Driveways & Pavers across Southern California
Design, permits, materials, and construction are handled by one in-house team. A designer will walk your property, talk through what's realistic on your lot, and show you what the space can become.
- Estate
-
Front Yard Emerald Entry
San Luis Obispo -
Complete Backyard Contemporary Courtyard
Greater Los Angeles