Urban Courtyard -
Hollywood Hills, California Residence
(Winning design as featured on HGTV's "Landscaper's
Challenge.")
The vertical house sits on a secluded hillside in the Hollywood Hills.
Built in the 1930’s or 1940’s, the original architecture
is French Normandy. The existing front garden was the only flat area
and had deteriorated over the years. The low retaining walls were
broken and a beautiful Magnolia tree in it was suffering badly.
As the client had no private outdoor area or formal entry, the concept
was to recreate a “Town Garden” or private enclosed courtyard
typical for urban houses in Europe. The style was to remain traditional
in accordance with the existing architecture, but to add a modern
touch in the furnishings, materials and planting to incorporate the
client’s own personal style.
The stacked concrete wall enclosing the garden is constructed from
recycled Los Angeles City sidewalks, which brought a city historical
element to the project. We saved the Magnolia tree and even decorated
it by hanging small lanterns from it like jewels that light up at
night.
Now when you step through the antique gate you are met by a bubbling
fountain and a small, very serene space for sitting, working or entertaining.
It is surrounded by minimal but lush plantings. It is a sanctuary
to escape from the bustling city.
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