Design Notes

10
Jul

The Power of Plants in Wildfire Resiliency

In the wake of the LA fires, resiliency in rebuilding means a future that is safer and healthier for all. There are multiple guides, such as the “Wildfire Action Plan,” that propose important steps for fire mitigation, from rain gutter covers to noncombustible roofs. These guidelines provide clear-cut methods to build structures that prevent fire...
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01
Apr

3 Tips on Designing with Pots

Pots are a wonderful, adaptable way to bring nature into your space without necessarily having a garden. By placing a pot, or a few, in a segment of your patio, you bring texture, color, and even wildlife habitats to your home. The following are helpful tips on when to use pots and which ones are...
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The glass ceiling of a garden at Huntington Library
04
Mar

Public Spaces, Secret Gardens

There are some really lovely public gardens to visit in Southern California. Some of them are larger establishments, while others are sweet, smaller parks, such as those built by the environmental non-profit North East Trees. Of course, public gardens such as the Huntington and Descanso Gardens are wonderful to visit. We particularly love the Children’s,...
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Ribes sanguineum
04
Feb

Happy Hummers: Planting for Hummingbirds

Look out your window on a bright sunny day and you may see a pop of color flash by—the sweetest of beings, the hummingbird, making yet another appearance. If you tend to see the same hummingbird fly by, it is not a coincidence; hummingbirds have been known to adopt and defend a property, as they...
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A stone fire pit beside an L shaped outdoor couch, beside a hillside
07
Dec

Warm up with Fire Pits

Adding a fire pit to your backyard not only creates ambiance, but a place to convene and socialize, even as the days get shorter and colder. A fire pit can be a simple design made with the right materials, but can transform a space into place for connection. And if you’ve ever wanted to make...
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A red water feature surrounded by stones and landscape
12
Nov

Water-Wise Water Features

Water features, adding soft splashes of water to your landcape, create a focal point and a sense of calm. Much like natural bodies of water, water features allow you to connect with the environment and find peace. While there are many benefits to having a water feature, it is wise to consider your surroundings when...
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A lanscape on a shaded street
01
Oct

3 Reasons to Plant a Tree

Trees are phenomenal. Not only do they look lovely, bringing bursts of color to your morning walk, but they support your home, your health, your neighborhood, and your environment. As the seasons change to fall, think about planting a tree, for it’s the best time of year to do so. The following are three benefits...
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