Modern La Jolla Small Space Challenge








Location: A modern La Jolla Home perched on a slope with little flat yard space
Challenge: To create an outdoor space with BBQ, Fireplace, Water Feature, Dining Area and Seating Space




Torrey Pines Landscape Co., Inc created a design concept that met the clients needs while keeping the modern lines of the homes architecutre and the home owners style in mind. We integrated functionality, as well as finesse, to compliment their interior design and spared no expense in acquiring the highest-quality materials combined with our in-house craftsmanship to deliver a design that beckons anyone on the inside to come on out!
The outdoor room that we created needed to be cut into the existing slope and when viewed from the inside of the home, flows out as a natural extension of their modern interior design aesthetic. The entire look has clean & sophisicated feeling with its square lines and choice of materials. There is an economy of form....less is more in a modern garden.

Let's take a closer look:

This garden has an emphasis of clean hard-scape with bold architectural plantings. The patio itself, the caps for seating and the BBQ counter and back-splash are done in hand cut slate pieces of varied sizes. The entire slope side of the patio has an 8' capped retaining wall covered in smooth stucco with built in slate-veneered seating. There is an upright L-shaped water feature seamlessly situated in the southwest corner. The water spills from the top of the walls, trickling over imported textured tiles creating a soothing sound for this modern retreat without sacrificing horizontal space. The compact BBQ area is built in the entrance way to the back patio. It is easily accessible yet out of the way. Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) climbs up the wall along side the BBQ adding a delightfully fragrant smell in the spring. The planter above the BBQ has Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis'Prostratus') which trails over the wall is drought tolerant, fragrant and hearty. The outdoor firplace invites a cozy outdoor experience year-round. The area behind the fireplace has Oldham Bamboo (Bambusa oldhamii) whose imposing vertical mass creates a dramatic architectural backdrop. Because the container plants are fewer in number, they are actually highlighted and add drama. A few well-chosen planters in modern shapes and colors will do the trick. Cordyline 'Bronze Baby' and a variety of Echevarias add a punch to the BBQ area. Phormium 'Pink Stripe' takes the stage along the seat wall between the water-feature and fireplace.



There is an ever-growing trend toward a simple, contemporary garden - one that works for a smaller yard or for those seeking a water-wise or an easy-care garden. Controlling everything from design to construction, Harry Thompson and his dedicated team look to deliver low maintenance, water-wise gardens for any theme...modern included.

When it comes to bringing your vision to life, Torrey Pines Landscape Co., Inc., has the resources and talent to oversee your project from the initial planning stages all the way through to implementation.

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