Long overdue improvements at an outdated condominium clubhouse with new paver pathways, patios, landscape lighting, decorative sandstone boulders, and landscape improvements.  A large amount of existing turf was removed, which qualified this project for the City of Santa Barbara's Smart Landscape Rebate program.

The plant palette for this project is an eclectic mix of drought tolerant plants including California Native Plants, succulents, and  subtropical cycads and palms. Some of the subtropical plants are also drought tolerant, proving that you don't have to use a lot of irrigation water to have a tropical look.  

Some of the more unique plants include:
Aloe 'Carpinteria Gem' - Carpinteria Gem Aloe
Aloe plicatilis - Fan Aloe
Cercis occidentalis - Western Redbud
​Cistanthe grandiflora 'Jazz Time' - Rock Purslane
Chamaerops humilis var. argentea - Atlas Mountain Palm
Encephalartos altensteinii - Prickly Cycad

The style of the landscape design for this 1960's Goleta tract home does not attempt to fight the "retro" style, but instead embrace it. Real turf was removed at the rear yard and replaced with artificial turf. The gravel paving and cobble swale complements the existing exposed aggregate concrete patios and walkways.  Simple rectangle and square shapes placed at angles provide interest and make the lawn area visually appear larger than it really is.  The corrugated raised steel veggie planters provide visual contrast in the garden as well as a functional element for growing edible plants.  

Installation of artificial turf, gravel and steel planters  by EcoLawn, Santa Barbara.  

Small yet fun residential project that features contemporary fencing, new cast in place entry stepping stones, and Trex decking.  Plants chosen in the design are primarily drought tolerant succulents such as Echeveria, Aloe and Agave.  

This is a project that was designed by Erin as an employee of Arcadia Studio Inc.  

http://www.edhat.com/site/tidbit.cfm?nid=141435&HT=SB

http://www.sbbeautiful.org/images/SBB%20Awards_%20Save%20the%20Date.pdf

The primary goal of the design of this residential project was to create a new entry experience to the front door and to create more level area for active and passive play in the front yard.  Hand crafted terraced boulder bank retaining walls were utilized to create a more level area without creating walls that were too high and imposing.  

This is a small outdoor sofa I designed and constructed myself to fit my small second level patio. The frame is constructed from Lyptus lumber, which is a Eucalyptus hybrid wood that is extremely dense and durable outside.  Seat Cushions by Fred's upholstery, Santa Barbara. 

Trees chosen for this condo project are Pinus elderica (Afgan Pine), Bauhinia blakeana (Hong Kong Orchid Tree), and Jacaranda.  The smaller plant material is a fun eclectic mix of low water use succulents, California natives, and subtropical plants such as Aloe 'Hercules', Agave desmettiana, Acacia cognata 'Cousin Itt', Agave 'Blue Flame' Echeveria 'Afterglow, and Arctostaphylos 'John Dourley'.  In the private patio area a ceramic pot fountain surrounded by decorative gravel with accent and path lighting provided the finishing touches.  Installation by Cold Springs Landscape. 

This 80 foot long constructed stream and pond draws upon local creeks and canyons for its inspiration. The informal organic design makes this water feature appear as if it was always a natural feature in the Landscape.