Roseville Couple Gets a Garden Designed for Entertaining
A small backyard on a golf course is transformed into the ultimate place to host wine and cheese parties
When Benjamin Dickerson of Simple Elegance first arrived at this property the backyard was nothing but grass that turned into a giant bog with the slightest amount of rain. The couple who owns the home wanted a yard that would better suit their entertaining needs, while still accommodating their small dog and grandchildren.
Looking out from the preexisting small master patio you can see a new patio with a fountain that also serves as a fire element. The arbor above the master patio was also added as part of the project. “In order to ensure that it would not look like an afterthought, we matched the color of the wood to the trim on the house and selected stone for the columns similar to what was already in place,” explains Dickerson.
Project Highlights:
- Location: Roseville, CA
- Property size: 2,500 square feet
- Budget: $109,000
Simple Elegance
Rocklin, CA
The homeowners’ wish list included both a fountain and a fire feature. To save space and create a truly unique feature, Dickerson combined the two with a custom design. A carved pillar creates the illusion that the fountain is twisting upwards towards the sky. Mosaic tile work and a copper vine give the fountain decorative flair, while a poured concrete wall cap provides extra seating or a place to rest a drink.
A flame can be turned on and off at the top of the fountain. “Our clients did not need a traditional fire pit for roasting marshmallows, instead we elevated the height of the flame so that it can be appreciated by people standing and enjoying the cheese, wine and conversation,” says Dickerson. The water for the fountain gently cascades from around the flame and down the sides of the tiled pillar.
The plantings for this backyard garden were selected for drought tolerance and year-round color. Whether it is spring, summer, fall or winter this large planting bed puts on a show. Fall and winter color comes from the changing leaves of a maple, while spring and summer color comes from Lime Glow juniper and various perennials. This central portion of the garden also features a pondless waterfall and a dry streambed which helps with drainage. On the far side of these plantings is a lawn intended for the couple's grandchildren and dog.
The owners of the home are collectors of eclectic art and wanted a piece that could be enjoyed while hosting parties in their garden. A local artist in Auburn, Calif. made this metal butterfly, which Dickerson lit from below. “It’s kinetic art that moves with the wind, making it seem like it’s a living part of the garden,” he says.
With help from Simple Elegance, these homeowners got an incredible backyard garden that suits their needs. They now have a unique space for entertaining, enough open space for their grandchildren and dog to run around, and beautiful drought tolerant plantings.
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Contributing Author: Sarah Hutchinson, contributing writer for Landscaping Network |
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