After moving from a landscaped acre in the Santa Ynez Valley of central coastal California, the owners purchased this property and created a plan with extensive hardscape. To the delight of their grandsons, an artificial sod putting green was installed. A shade structure for a large dining area surrounded by an outdoor kitchen (including a well-used pizza oven) divides the entertainment area from the vegetable garden. The large, raised beds are home to an ever-changing collection of vegetables and herbs all grown from seed. The backyard is surrounded by a narrow, concrete, raised bed for semi-dwarf trees, flower bulbs, herbs, and evergreen pines. A small rock waterfall and pond were installed in the corner of the yard to enhance the sounds of nature. Wildlife is abundant and incudes monarchs, bees, birds, occasional rabbits, a pair of ducks, and neighborhood pets. The side yard has become home for potted succulents and low maintenance plants. A greenhouse was erected this winter for growing seeds into starts, and housing delicate or out-of-season plants.
