26 Sep Before and After: Front Yard
A deeply rewarding aspect of landscape design is the remarkable transformation that takes place in a client’s property between the very first site visit and the final reveal. Few things are more satisfying than watching an overgrown, cluttered, or outdated landscape evolve into a clean, modern, and welcoming outdoor environment.
In this San Clemente property, the journey from “before” to “after” was especially striking.
For decades, the front of the home was concealed by nearly forty years of unchecked growth, leaving the entryway hidden and the architecture overshadowed. Layers of multi-story bushes, succulents, palms, and segas dominated the space, creating a wall of vegetation that not only blocked the home’s character but also made the entry feel inaccessible.
The first step in the redesign process was the careful removal of this heavy vegetation. Clearing the plants and trees revealed the size of the yard and the architectural lines of the home itself.
With the fresh canvas, we installed new retaining walls, finishing them with decorative stone for both durability and style. These walls were strategically tiered, creating levels enhancing the sightlines while opening space for a new set of stairs and a clear, welcoming entry.
The use of tiers not only added function but introduced layers of visual interest, helping the front yard feel more dynamic and intentional.
The new walls and stairway also provided opportunities to utilize a thoughtful selection of plants. Replacing the dense growth, we curated plants that thrive in the Southern California climate and offer a refined, contemporary look.
Agave was chosen for its sculptural qualities, sage for its texture and fragrance, and olive trees for their timeless beauty and shade. Each plant was positioned to highlight the new architectural framework, working in harmony with the stone walls and the home’s exterior.
By varying the heights and textures of the plantings, we achieved a sense of balance and depth that the original landscape had been lacking.
The new walls and stairway also provided opportunities to utilize a thoughtful selection of plants. Replacing the dense growth, we curated plants that thrive in the Southern California climate and offer a refined, contemporary look. Agave was chosen for its sculptural qualities, sage for its texture and fragrance, and olive trees for their timeless beauty and shade.
Each plant was positioned to highlight the new architectural framework, working in harmony with the stone walls and the home’s exterior. By varying the heights and textures of the plantings, we achieved a sense of balance and depth that the original landscape had been lacking.
Call Paradise Designs to speak to one of our design and installation professionals and make your home a paradise!
