Mona’s garden was installed a few years ago as a naturalized garden – or “smart garden” with low water plants. This garden was meant to give you a lot of drama and function,  while keeping with  the new standards of gardening for California — reducing water in the garden and establishing low maintenance plants that fit bewaterwise.com guidelines,. I am thrilled to see that the plants and trees have grown to create a little oasis in the back yard.

 Large shrubs and trees were used to camouflage neighbors in the back and sides of the home.  Certain plants were chosen to encourage butterflies and humming birds. Mona really wanted to separate herself from the typical ‘track home’  back yard seen throughout her neighborhood— and I think– after walking through the garden today, we accomplished what Mona was looking for.

 But another part of the garden we didn’t share in the original posting was her patio and entraining area and   how we placed furniture to fit in the beautiful garden that was created for Mona

 – Please take into account I didn’t not design or install the beautiful pool.

Different ‘Rooms’ in Mona’s Garden

 Mona uses the back garden for countless parties and “get togethers” with her friends and family. The mid century ranch home is near Cal State Long Beach, in fact a typical track home in the area,  but her new  back garden  gives you the feeling of being in a resort.  This didn’t happen by accident but rather by careful planning of the back garden space and creating small ‘rooms’ to use for  a function.

  Two Focal Points:  the gorgeous pool and BBQ don’t over dominate the areas– instead blend with the naturalized garden. The cultured stone on the pool walls and BBQ set the color scheme for the rest of the back yard- including the garden.   

Space and Function:  three areas were designated to allow ample room for a lot of guests sit and feel comfortable.  Furniture for each area was picked for function and performance of space. Colors were chosen to reflect colors of the home and garden.  Decorations were chosen to fit the style of the home. The natural color of cement was used as a neutral on the patio floor and on the countertop of the BBQ. To add texture some areas of the cement was acid washed to define seating areas etc. Instead of a patio cover – lots of umbrellas for drama and create a spa like feel to the garden.

Room One: allows for great conversation among guests.  A comfy sofa and chairs placed near the large BBQ allows the cook to be involved in conversation while showing off her cooking skills

Room Two:   contains a table and 4 over sized chairs – a great to sit and eat under the umbrella or to watch swimmers in the pool  

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Room Three: contains four cushioned oversized chairs with a fire pit. The space for meant for spill over for eating space and/or a place to get cozy after swimming.

All of this – plus a beautiful garden was achieved in a typical back yard garden, the size of most 50’s style track homes in the Long Beach Area. Let me help you design the garden of your dreams.

Alford’s English Garden

                …where your garden begins