Mid-century modern design transforms Modesto home and garden

MODESTO, CA. This transformed landscape and façade were selected for inclusion in a garden tour only months after installation. In addition to a bold new look, the new design saves water and requires less maintenance. Hidden dry sumps also allow runoff to infiltrate the soil rather than running into the storm sewer.

The plants are bold, and rely on foliage color and shape rather than flowers to make a statement. This way, the garden holds its interest throughout the year. Some of the plants only recently came on the market: there is a flax lily with striking blue-gray foliage (Dianella tasmanica 'Little Rev'), a combination of New Zealand flax with a new Festival Grass Cordyline that echos the form and color of the flax but has a more relaxed habit. Siskiyou blue fescue, golden oregano and Chinese holly grape (Mahonia lomariifolia) complete the foundation planting.

Passing through a metal and frosted gate door into the patio places you in a private space with an outdoor kitchen, custom water fountain/sculpture, a dining table and paving designed to look like a series of throw rugs.

An existing Japanese maple was saved by suspending an ipe wood fence between segments of a tall concrete wall. This allowed the tree's roots to remain undisturbed.