07/05/2026
We love revisiting gardens we’ve designed and installed to see how they’ve grown over time. A recent stop at this Santa Margarita property was a wonderful reminder that thoughtful design ages well.
Our design goal was to complement the owners’ elegant ranch-style home while celebrating the surrounding beauty of the Santa Margarita Ranch. From the beginning, weathered steel, natural stone, and hog panel fencing established a timeless, rustic character. Four years later, the hardy, low-maintenance plantings have filled in beautifully, thriving in the North County heat and completing the vision.
At its heart, this project was about bringing family and friends outdoors. From the day it was completed, the large flagstone patio, custom-welded fire pit, landscape lighting, bocce court, and cozy hot tub nook have provided a welcoming backyard retreat for the family to share. This garden also reflects the personalities of the homeowners—one of our favorite parts of the design process. One owner, a craftsman, built the beautiful outdoor bar that has become a natural gathering place. The other, an avid gardener, inspired us to weave espaliered peaches, apples, and figs alongside her thriving raspberry patch—adding beauty as well as a delicious seasonal harvest. 🍑🍏🌳
One of the unexpected joys of our work is the relationships that grow alongside the gardens. It’s fun running into these homeowners around town to hear what’s blooming and which pollinators have stopped by for a visit. We’re honored whenever we’re invited back to see how a landscape is maturing—this visit even came with a jar of homemade raspberry jam! The sweetness of it all!
