About the Project

APLD Merit Award for Residential Design (2010)

The owners of this 1934 Spanish Colonial Revival home hired Laura to create for them an urban oasis incorporating sustainable practices and the California spirit. Mixing both state native and Mediterranean plants, this natural-looking habitat remains animated and alive throughout the year.

Inspired by original architectural details, including many arches, Laura planned a new entry courtyard with an octagonal tiled fountain evoking early California gardens. An outdoor kitchen and dining area have been cleverly worked into the driveway down the side of the garden.

The pool area is connected to the home and writing studio with Moroccan tiled patios and richly upholstered banquettes. Concrete is used in innovative ways throughout, while customized gates and details add an artisanal feeling. A shimmering glass fire pit and shower add to the discoveries that make this landscape an exquisitely magical indoor–outdoor experience.

Casa de los Arcos was one of the featured homes open for public viewing in May 2009 through the Garden Conservancy’s Open Days program (L.A. County). The project was also spotlighted in a May 2010 online article in Garden Design magazine. In addition, Laura has written an article on the project that was published in Pacific Horticulture (Spring 2014 issue).
[View all press clippings for this project.]

(NOTE: All work was performed by licensed landscape contractors.)