The Berkeley

Project Overview

What was the primary goal or objective of this project?

The owner requested a 100% zero-scape design with a Southwest-inspired landscape. We achieved this by incorporating pottery, artificial plants, turf, rock, custom sculptures, boulders, metal artwork, and palm trees, keeping the turf minimal at the front of the property for visual balance. Additionally, we created a striking water feature at the entry sign, with a sheet of water cascading from beneath it.

In addition to the landscape redesign, the pool deck and surrounding areas were outdated, so we removed the deteriorating decking and built segmented walls that guide visitors through a hammock garden, culminating at an egg chair pad, all enhanced with overhead shade.

A key aspect of the project was addressing the property's poor or nonexistent drainage. We rerouted all downspouts and connected them to the road or available stormwater systems, ensuring effective water management across the site.

Project Location

This project involved a comprehensive reimagining of the front entryway and common areas throughout the community, including the office and pool area. Key features included a newly paved pool deck, segmented walls, hammocks, egg chairs, and pottery, as well as custom metal cactus sculptures and artificial plants.

We also created a bark park with shade sails installed over both the park and the hammock garden to provide comfort and functionality.

Stormwater drainage was improved across the site, and pottery accents were strategically placed throughout to enhance visual appeal. The project was further elevated with several custom-designed 8-foot-tall artworks and a striking water feature along the street, boosting curb appeal and making a bold statement for the community.

Scope of Work

• 95% zero-scape design, significantly reducing the need for irrigation and maintenance.
• A Southwest-inspired landscape creatively integrated into a Southeastern environment.
• Custom elements, including metal cactus sculptures, segmented walls, pottery, and 8-foot-tall custom artwork.
• A fully reimagined pool area with a newly paved deck, hammock garden, and shade sails.
• A bark park designed with artificial plants and shade sails for comfort.
• A striking water feature along the street to enhance curb appeal and make a bold statement.

Design Inspiration

The primary goal was to eliminate the need for irrigation by creating a beautiful, sustainable landscape that would retain its aesthetic appeal for years with minimal maintenance. The design emphasized a balance between functionality and visual impact, ensuring the landscape remained both low-maintenance and strikingly attractive.

Highlight Features

• 95% zero-scape design, significantly reducing the need for irrigation and maintenance.
• A Southwest-inspired landscape creatively integrated into a Southeastern environment.
• Custom elements, including metal cactus sculptures, segmented walls, pottery, and 8-foot-tall custom artwork.
• A fully reimagined pool area with a newly paved deck, hammock garden, and shade sails.
• A bark park designed with artificial plants and shade sails for comfort.
• A striking water feature along the street to enhance curb appeal and make a bold statement.

Materials Used

Hardscapes: Pavers for the pool deck and walkways, segmented walls constructed from durable, weather-resistant materials, and custom metalwork for sculptures and garden features.

• Rock and Stone: Designer rock, egg rock, and boulders were used throughout the landscape for texture, accenting, and defining spaces.
• Artificial Elements: Artificial turf and plants were installed to enhance the zero-scape design and reduce maintenance needs.
• Pottery: Custom and decorative pottery strategically placed across the property to add visual interest and complement the Southwest-inspired design.
• Shade Sails: Installed in the bark park and hammock garden, providing functional and aesthetic shade structures.
• Custom Artwork: 8-foot-tall sculptures crafted from weather-resistant materials to withstand outdoor conditions and serve as striking focal points.

These materials were selected to support the project’s goal of sustainability, durability, and minimal maintenance.

Outcome

The completed landscape added value and transformed the space into a visually striking, low-maintenance environment that exceeded the client's goals. By achieving a 95% zero-scape design, the need for irrigation was virtually eliminated, resulting in a more sustainable landscape that requires minimal upkeep. The Southwest-inspired design brought a unique and bold aesthetic to the Southeastern setting, offering a fresh and engaging look.

The reimagined pool area, segmented walls, and custom sculptures added both functionality and artistic appeal. The addition of the hammock garden, shade sails, and bark park created inviting spaces for relaxation and recreation, further enhancing the property's usability. Improved stormwater drainage resolved long-standing issues and ensured the landscape's durability.

Overall, the project not only met but elevated the client's vision of a beautiful, sustainable landscape that would provide long-lasting visual appeal and functionality.