Foothills Sanctuary
This garden is a heartfelt tribute to the memory of our client’s beloved wife, who was an avid gardener. This serene space seamlessly blends Mediterranean and Native California flora, creating a healing and nurturing environment for both wildlife and visitors.
Designed by Carol Armour Aronson, this project not only fulfills its functional objectives but also stands as a living, breathing homage to love and memory, fostering a connection between nature and the human spirit.
Our primary goals were to preserve the existing trees, attract wildlife, and address soil erosion in the front yard. The existing terraces struggled with water runoff during rain events, leading to soil displacement. To combat this, we integrated a nearly invisible swale behind a terraced wall, effectively capturing and managing the water flow.
In the shaded areas of the garden, we introduced a variety of plants including Heuchera, Ribes viburnifolium, Festuca, and native California irises, creating a lush and verdant understorey. The sunnier spots now burst with vibrant buckwheat, sages, and Penstemons, adding a splash of color and life. Importantly, the central island remains untouched, preserving the original design crafted by our client’s wife.
The garden pathways are thoughtfully constructed with permeable materials, utilizing flagstone set in decomposed granite (DG) for the main paths and pure DG for the smaller trails, ensuring sustainability and ease of movement.
The backyard has been transformed into a pollinator haven, with a dedicated garden featuring milkweed, buckwheats, and yarrow to attract butterflies. Additionally, a shaded area hosts the charming Verbena ‘Lilacina de La Mina’ interspersed with Canyon Prince Rye grass, creating a peaceful retreat.
