We transformed this Carlsbad front yard from the traditional developer front lawn to a drought tolerant dynamic and inviting front yard living area. Creating an enclosed front patio allowed the owner to leave the front door open and have her dogs out front without having to worry about them running off. Check out the photos below.
This is what the property looked like before we got started. Notice that the only way to access the front door is to walk up the driveway, usually around a car.
We have added a low wall to create an expanded front patio. We also brought in boulders, and created a generous curving concrete entry path. Newly installed plants will require time to grow and develop character.
This is what the landscape looks like a little less than two years after installation. Cool plants definitely make it come alive. I like the contrast of the purple Cordyline ‘Red Sensation’ against the yellow stucco.
Varied colors and textures make the landscape interesting throughout the year. While a landscape like this requires more skill to maintain, it certainly requires less time and natural resources than the previous lawn, and the effort invested yields worthy returns!
