Against a backdrop of native oaks, this Atherton landscape 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.

This 1.5-acre Atherton estate was transformed into a “Mediterranean Journey” that complements the new home and pool with a multitude of landscape destinations.

Terracotta paving, hand-painted ceramic tiles, and eclectic Mediterranean plantings complement the romantic Spanish Revival architecture. Informal front yard seating invites the gardener to pause and admire their bounty. Permeable paving allows the driveway to percolate stormwater and minimize runoff. An eclectic assortment of foliage brings light and life to a side yard path. A one-of-a-kind cantilevered steel arbor creates interest as well as dappled shade. Cleaning and resetting the existing brick patio conserved budget without sacrificing style.

Thoughtful planning created a multitude of functional spaces for relaxed outdoor living at this Palo Alto home. 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, an infiltration basin collects runoff from the home’s downspouts and allows it to percolate back to groundwater.