Against a backdrop of native oaks, the “Luxe Life” landscape in Atherton is the epitome of a Califriendly™ site that conserves resources, provides habitat, and creates joy.

California native plants provide beauty while allowing the home to remain the star.

A new deck invites relaxation among a water-wise garden compatible with the native oak trees.

Gravel paving allows stormwater to percolate deeply into the soil, nourishing the local oaks.

Of course the garden includes spaces for people, including a fire pit surrounded by favored ‘Iceberg’ roses.

Of course the garden includes spaces for people, including a fire pit surrounded by favored ‘Iceberg’ roses.

Thoughtful planning created a multitude of functional spaces for relaxed outdoor living in this Palo Alto back yard.

The dining patio was sited in the shade of adjacent redwood trees, with a redwood pergola to create enclosure.

A grove of ‘Pink Lady’ apples hides an intimate deck suited to quiet conversation.

For evening entertaining, a fire pit surrounded by stone seat walls hosts gatherings of any size.

To reduce the owner’s maintenance burden, the home’s front lawn was converted to a stunning mix of native and Mediterranean plants.

Beneath a native Valley Oak, this infiltration basin collects runoff from the home’s downspouts and allows it to percolate back to groundwater.