A Private Regional Park in Novato
This Natural Bird Garden in Novato is a perfect example of creating landscapes that coexist in perfect harmony with the natural environment. Our design was conceived to complement the surrounding open space, transforming a sloped area into a private sanctuary. For the homeowner, this garden is like a personal regional park, offering meandering pathways, a bounty of edibles, and endless hours of bird watching.
The Design & Features
To bring this vision to life, our landscape design and build team focused on a design that felt both structured and wild. We utilized natural materials and a carefully curated plant palette to create a space that feels like a discovery at every turn. Key features of this project in Novato include:
- Meandering Pathways & Steps: We designed and built a series of meandering pathways using decomposed granite (DG) to create a natural and inviting flow through the garden. To navigate the slope, we incorporated sturdy railroad tie steps, which add a rustic, timeless character while making every corner of the garden accessible.
- A Pollinator’s Paradise: The garden is filled with a rich diversity of nectar-producing flowers and edibles that attract a wide variety of birds, bees, and butterflies. We carefully selected plants like perennial feather grasses and other native species that provide both beauty and a consistent food source for local wildlife, turning the space into a vibrant ecosystem.
- Tiered Retaining Walls: To create usable, level areas on the slope, we built a series of retaining walls from natural stone and concrete. These walls not only provide structural stability but also create defined garden beds that are easier to maintain and showcase the plantings at different elevations.
- Food to Gather: Beyond the visual appeal, the garden is highly productive. The plants were chosen not just for their aesthetic and pollinator-attracting qualities, but also for the edibles they provide to the homeowner, from fresh herbs to berries, making the garden a source of both beauty and sustenance.
The Outcome
The result is a truly unique landscape that blurs the line between a cultivated garden and the natural open space that surrounds it. This Natural Bird Garden in Novato is a testament to how thoughtful landscape design can create a personal sanctuary that is also a thriving part of the local ecosystem, providing both a peaceful retreat for the homeowner and a vital habitat for local wildlife.
All Project Pictures
