Portfolio: Framing a seating area
A shorter planting mix frames this seating area without overwhelming the space
Perched atop a retaining wall with stunning views of the western sky this patio area is a popular place to watch sunsets. The new planting defines this corner as a natural destination. Carrying the contour of the bed from the upper to the lower sections softens the hard edge of the wall and connects the inner and outer yards. By limiting the planting to lower-growing species we interrupted the verticallity of the retaining wall without overwhelming it, and ensured an open vista.
To illustrate how plantings change over time images are presented by growing season in reverse-chronological order.
First growing season
The meadow planting creates a strong foundation to anchor this seating area.
Perennials with a lower maximum height were selected for this planting to ensure that the view remained open.
Although some gaps still remain in the second growing season, the overlapping textures and shapes of plants in a meadow planting are starting to show.
Dense plantings create habitat and reduce the likelihood of weed growth.
Design plan & installation
Graphic display of planting area and species zones.
Seating area before installation.
Seating area with newly installed beds.