SWANNANOA
A front yard made for gathering, growing, and showing up well
The homeowners knew their front yard had more to give.
Yes, they wanted better curb appeal. And yes, they wanted something easier to care for.
But more than anything, they wanted a space that reflected how they like to live—welcoming, relaxed, and ready for company.
Overgrown, dated planting beds had begun to swallow the landscape, making the property feel closed off and a little forgotten. It wasn’t inviting people in, and it certainly wasn’t supporting the kind of entertaining they had in mind. So they decided it was time for a fresh start.
Beyond looks, they imagined a property that could bring people together. A place to gather, and connect—complete with a kitchen garden that would let them step outside, harvest fresh ingredients, and turn everyday hosting into a true farm-to-table experience.
Giving the landscape structure and room to breathe
The first step was clearing the clutter. Invasive and overgrown plant material was removed, opening up the site and revealing the property’s natural potential.
From there, we introduced new, low-maintenance planting beds designed to provide texture, balance, and seasonal interest throughout the year. Hardscape elements were layered in to define gathering areas and guide movement through the space—adding structure without overpowering the softness of the landscape. The kitchen garden and outdoor kitchen quickly became focal points of the design. Thoughtfully placed and seamlessly integrated, they feel like natural extensions of the home rather than add-ons.
To make it all work, we had to address significant grading challenges. By carefully reworking elevations and building a series of terraces, we transformed a difficult site into a set of comfortable, usable outdoor rooms—each one inviting you to stay awhile.
Key Features
LOW-MAINTENANCE PLANTING BEDS
Beauty that doesn’t demand attention
Thoughtfully selected plantings deliver texture and seasonal interest without constant upkeep.
KITCHEN GARDEN
Fresh ingredients, right outside the door
A designed kitchen garden brings farm-to-table living into everyday life.
TERRACED LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Turning elevation into experience
A series of carefully designed terraces transforms changes in elevation into comfortable outdoor rooms for gathering and connection.
OUTDOOR KITCHEN & PIZZA OVEN
Where meals become moments
Integrated cooking and gathering spaces transform the property into a social hub—perfect for casual meals, celebrations, and lingering long after the food is served.
A welcoming landscape that’s meant to be used
Today, the front yard feels open and inviting.
It’s easy to care for, yet rich in detail and seasonal change. It’s a place where friends gather, meals start with a quick walk through the garden, and the outdoors becomes part of everyday life—not just something to admire from a distance.
This is a landscape designed to be lived in—and loved—day after day.
Additional galleries
Enjoy a seamless journey to a stunning landscape
Landscaping projects can be complex—but your experience shouldn't be. Our proven process keeps everything clear and organized from start to finish.