The clients told Sedlacek they wanted “no color” in the garden, a refrain Sedlacek has heard from other clients before. Sedlacek says, “I think what people are wanting when they say that is they want a sense of calmness in the garden,” says Sedlacek. “Nature is color, so it’s more a question of how do you control the color?” Sedlacek narrowed the foliage palette to silver blue tones and greens. The hardscape materials are likewise unsaturated: gray brick, wood that will gray with time, gray steel edging, and silver-toned hardware.
One plant that was key to the design is the licorice plant (Helichrysum petiolare). “I’m always excited about [licorice plant] because it’s an unsung hero,” says Sedlacek. “It can cascade over edges, so it’ll soften everything.” Sedlacek notes that you need to shape this plant or else it becomes a big, round puff. Prune it from the top to keep it low.
Master the materials mix.
Sedalek mixes materials deftly in her designs, but she says she is especially conscious to mix experiences underfoot. Here, she used different materials to create three “rooms” within the main outdoor space. “It seems counterintuitive,” she adds. “You might think that things would feel bigger in one material, but then you lose that opportunity to have all of the textures and the plants come through.”
Explore turf grass alternatives.
The homeowners wanted to be able to come out barefoot and come down to the grass and have a picnic, so Sedlacek designed a small patch of no-mow fescue between the dining and firepit areas. It was installed as a sod because Sedlacek says she sees better acceptance and clients like the instant gratification. While it will need irrigation for the first couple years, it can be weaned off eventually.
Ed note: This property escaped the recent wildfires unscathed, but many of ORCA’s other recent projects were lost. As Sedlacek has begun conversations about rebuilding with her clients, she says she is thinking about how gardens can be protective and help us in the future.
See also:
(Visited 1 times, 1 visits today)
