DIGS is the premiere luxury real estate lifestyle magazine serving the most affluent neighborhoods in the South Bay and Westside of Los Angeles, California.
Issue link: https://www.southbaydiggs.com/i/226629
[ARCHITECTURAL LANDSCAPING] photography by paul jonason Landscape by park Slope Design WRITTEN BY QUINN ROBERTS Over the years, the home has evolved into a personal retreat where one can enjoy happen, outdoor kitchens and fire features are being installed on patios, decks and the same comfort and perks they'd find on a luxurious getaway. It's no different in the backyards. This allows homeowners to linger outside with their guests, and it creates South Bay, where homeowners are opting to transform their residence into a resort- a beautiful environment for entertaining. Night lighting, heating lamps and even like hideaway. Nothing says private oasis like lush landscaping, and some key trends sound systems set the mood for an outdoor social space. are redefining how we look at outdoor space. When it comes to the types of plants homeowners are choosing, the focus is on Relaxation is the main driver behind landscaping today. Blending the interior and succulents and native or exotic plants, flowers and grasses that are appropriate for exterior of the home is one way to create a relaxing environment. The use of bold the local climate. Varieties from Mexico and Australia also are used. Regardless of colors in outdoor spaces brings the indoors outside, with shades of orange especially their origin, all are low-water plants. "Low water doesn't have to be barren plants," popular at the moment. Grabel notes. "People used to think of low water as in cacti, but now it is more than Water features also contribute to a relaxed environment. The soothing sound of water inspires homeowners to install various types of fountains in multiple exterior spaces. While sculptural fountains remain a top pick, a popular alternative at the moment are basalt (volcanic rock) fountains. Architectural pottery has also become an important way to create a relaxing outdoor space. Gone are the days of heavy concrete pots and dreary colors. Now, it's all about brightly colored glazed pots from Thailand and Vietnam. "People are staying home more to create a safe haven that is a comfort zone," says Joan Grabel of Park Slope Design in Redondo Beach. "Even people who don't have a lot of money are doing it on a different scale. You want it to feel peaceful at home." Turning an outdoor space into a social place is another huge trend. To make it that. You can get an incredibly lush look from succulents using agave and other plants. It doesn't have to be sparse." In a similar mind-set, many homeowners are focused on using only what they need and using efficient irrigation methods like drip irrigation. Most have sensors installed so that when it rains, the automatic watering systems shut down. National trends in organic eating and a raised awareness about sustainability and environmentally sound lifestyles have upped the interest in growing edible plants and gardens at home. Organic potting soil, planter mix and fertilizer are in high demand by homeowners. "People really want a functional space," Grabel notes. "Land has become so precious that you want it to be aesthetically pleasing and functional." ARCHITECT | DESIGN | BUILD 12.13.2013 121