Hillside overlooking the Carquinez Strait
This home was built on a hillside overlooking the Carquinez Strait. Ironically, while the Delta sheds into the Bay, the hillsides above receive only a few inches of rainwater per year. Moisture is provided via mornings and evenings as the wind and fog blows allowing uniquely adapted plants endemic to this area of the Bay to evolve and flourish.
Key Goals: Firstly, open the home to the surrounding nature. Secondly, increase sustainability and eliminate toxic pesticides. Lastly, bring in beauty while reducing water uses and maintenance.
Much of the initial hardscape was chosen by the owner through a paver company whose project went south. With our preferred contractor, we were able to rescue the build and meet the homeowner’s goals.
Lawn and struggling shrubs were removed (heirloom shrubs were saved where possible). Decomposed granite, gravel, locally sourced boulders and organic composted mulch were chosen for the groundscape. Two dry creeks and several gravel beds serve to slow reduce erosion when it pours. Boulders were carefully selected nearby and sited for group seating and taking in the views.
Where areas faced harsh sun and wind, xeriscape plants were arranged in groupings or at key points to provide color and movement. A mixed palette of New World Desert, New Zealand, South African and California natives in these xeriscape areas brighten year round. A Zen path invites one to stroll to the hillside edge and take in the surrounding hills, views and fresh air. Outside of this path, native perennials locally endemic to this very strait were chosen to transition the xeriscape areas to swaths of no mow native grasses that blend into the hillside below
Drip was installed for periods of excess duress in most areas. Temporary irrigation was installed past the native perennials beds where swathes of native grasses were seeded to restore erosion. Only one zone in a heavily shade area up front was allowed to remain on low to moderate use drip. Instead of a pool, a low water use recirculating fountain allows melodic sounds to calm while drawing the eye to the Carquinez Strait.
In fact, the variety of gathering areas, diverse materials and plantings were all sited and arranged to provide enjoyment and draw the eye to views beyond. Little details like a turf dog run, pots filled with unusual succulents or herbs ensure livability. The native grass roots extend 30′ down securing the hillside while the family makes memories sitting around the fire. While providing good use for the family, this home’s landscape both honors and is rewarded by Nature.