We’ve designed and built many gardens over the years, and we’re proud of every one of them. But every so often, a landscape project tells a story that touches our hearts in a special way.
This story begins with a family in Sebastopol, two parents and a young adult son with autism. (To honor their privacy, we will simply refer to the son as A. and his mom as I.) Their property sits on a beautiful lot, which originally featured a sprawling backyard covered with traditional turf lawn, a gravel path around it and a patio. Even before any work was done on the yard, A. liked to wander the path. According to his mom, he prefers secluded places that feel safe, but he also likes to explore and spend a lot of time outdoors. The family recognized the need for a garden space that would promote safe adventure and a soothing environment.
Equinox’s principal landscape designer, Kamala Bennett, worked with the family to integrate their vision into the overall design. Her goal was to weave together elements that provide meditative spaces and gathering nodes; meandering paths and walls to encourage exploration; water features; and a plant palette to complement the hardscape. Additionally, I. is a visual artist and wanted to emphasize sculpture and other artistic elements in the garden. The result is an artful, relaxing space that serves the family and visitors in a deeply meaningful way.
Kamala was inspired by the flowing, meditative qualities of a labyrinth, and she designed a low rock wall that spirals through the garden. A. likes to walk along the wall, or perch on any number of rocks and seating areas. He spends a lot of time outside, and often eats in the garden. I. says, “The curving wall adds movement to the garden. It’s a beautiful addition; it actually looks like a question mark.”
The spiraling stone wall leads to a contemplative fountain.
Detail of the stone fountain, adorned with whimsical painted stone orbs, and California native blue-eyed grass.
The couple wanted art throughout their garden, and they commissioned Petaluma-based sculptor Marguerite Elliot to create the fluid, graceful “Waves of Light” metal sculpture (below) that provides a focal point. They also helped select boulders for the space, noting the rocks’ inherent shapes and colors evoke natural sculptures.
The open, uncluttered design invites visitors to wander and explore. Says Kamala, “The pathway patterns create unique destinations and distinct ‘puzzle pieces’ for discovery.” She chose drought tolerant, native and Mediterranean plants, with colors, shapes and textures that enrich the other elements, including soft, cloud-like pink muhly grass, Salvia (sages), manzanita, blueberries and more.
Perhaps the most significant feature of all is the positive impact this garden has on the family and their visitors. The serenity one feels upon entering is unmistakable. A. continues to spend restorative time among the boulders, pathways and plants. Even the family dog loves to lounge in the sun on the paths. I. sums it up best when she says, “There’s a feeling of peace. We’ve had a lot of visitors, and as soon as they see the garden they say, ‘I feel like I’ve arrived somewhere.’ It’s a place of landing, being settled, being home.”
Dig Deeper:
- We are proud to announce that this landscape won First Place for Small Residential Design/Build from the 2022 California Landscape Contractor’s Association (CLCA). Additionally, two more of our projects earned CLCA Second Place (Recognition) Awards in the Medium Residential Design/Build and Large Residential Maintenance categories. Way to go, Team Equinox!
- For more information about Petaluma artist Marguerite Elliot, click here.
A thoughtfully designed landscape will not only transform your outer environment, it can also nurture your inner sense of health and wellbeing.
If you’re inspired to transform your garden space, call us for a consultation: 707-789-9786.
