Keep going. Keep growing.

Big Valley Gardens was a phased residential landscape developed as an immersive outdoor living environment and long-term planting study within a rural Zone 5 setting.

As co-owner and lead designer, I directed master planning, spatial organization and plant palette development. I participated extensively in installation, plant placement, stone positioning and ongoing maintenance stewardship. 

The design established structure first by creating a framework to support layered planting over time.

Key elements included:

• A labyrinth-style natural stone patio serving as contemplative circulation and focal point 
• Strategically placed boulders and stone accents reinforcing grade transitions and spatial definition
• Japanese maples positioned as seasonal anchors offering refined spring foliage, vibrant autumn color and sculptural winter form
• Layered perennial and shrub compositions designed for true four-season continuity
   

Spring introduced woodland tones and understory bloom. Summer emphasized density and movement. Autumn highlighted architectural foliage against stone and evergreen structure. Winter revealed branch patterns, seed heads and the enduring presence of natural materials.

The property has since transitioned to new ownership, marking the completion of this chapter while the design principles developed here continue to inform my work.

 All photography is original and documented by me throughout the growing season.