Thoughtful. Sustainable. Garden Design.
Mid-Century Texas
In drought-prone Central Texas, this 1/2-acre, single-owner mid-century property (circa 1961) was landscaped in water-thirsty St. Augustine grass, resulting in enormous summer water bills, no horticultural diversity and little to enjoy--unless you call watering and mowing fun. Rocky limestone clay soil along with drainage challenges required a complete landscape overhaul for the new owners. All lawn was replaced with native grasses and wildflowers, mown 3x annually and needing no supplemental irrigation. Remaining areas underwent extensive excavation including the addition of a 65' curving steel retaining wall whose living surface oxidizes over time. Native plants, succulents and artificial turf along with architectural steel fencing and pots create an easy-care landscape that's respectful of the environment. Drip irrigation used throughout.
The process of excavating and building a steel retaining wall:
January
February
March