Martin Residence – Cardiff by the Sea, CA

Perched on a bluff with sweeping views of the San Elijo Lagoon, this completely remodeled large Mediterranean garden offers a variety of features.  The rebuilding of the garden started when view killing fences and shrubs were removed, paint and stucco colors changed, copious amounts of compost and organic fertilizers tilled into the native sandy soil, and many new elements created.  The sand blasted pergola is used for both quiet repose, and as an outdoor dining area featuring a large granite table and built-in grill-buffet.  An in ground spa with water feature and copper fire bowl are dramatically perched on the edge of the bluff.  A look-out point reached by a gravel path that curves through olives, citrus, and lavender, as well as a more formal gravel garden show the versatile use of this permeable “hardscape” material.  A lighted “sports court” allows family and friends to play basketball as whim dictates.  Woven throughout these features is a Mediterranean palette of plants in reds, rusts, yellows, purples, and grays.