images: Envision Landscape Studio - click to enlarge
This Danville, CA, design by Colin Miller of Envision Landscape Studio in Walnut Creek won a Gold Award this year from APLD (Association of Professional Landscape Designers), and it's no wonder that Miller was also named 2014 Designer of the Year.
Stucco walls and planters contain the steep slope, which was planted with grasses and perennials to extend the view out into the hills beyond. The modern stainless steel and Ipe water feature cools the environment, and the arbor in the first photo, also constructed from steel and wood, provides shade from the hot sun.
Miller made use of existing concrete walls that were retaining the hillside, and he also left in place the concrete paving. Stairways connect to paths of crushed rock that wind through the upper part of the landscape.
In effect, Miller created a series of linked garden "rooms" that are large enough for entertaining both family and friends at any time of day or night -- a stunning design perfect for the outdoor lifestyle.
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