University Heights San Diego

This 1920’s Craftsman Bungalow is located at the end of a cul-du-sac on slightly over half an acre with panoramic canyon views and a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean in the distance. The previous homeowners resided there for decades and the landscape – complete with overgrown native vegetation, hidden terraces and secret gardens – was in need of restoration. Drainage and erosion, fire prevention, view sheds and connectivity were priority followed by drought tolerant, native, wildlife-friendly flora. Terraces were rehabilitated or added using onsite materials as much as possible and matched the original stonework found onsite. A new deck was built off the living room, which resolved accessibility issues between the backyard and the house. Beyond the deck, a series of terraces descended into the canyon offering gardening, meditation, and flexible gathering spaces for dining or a fire pit. Decomposed granite matching the existing native soil and redwood were the dominant surface materials. The front yard was previously grass and now houses a variety of native shrubs and low growing succulents that complement the historical facade of a typical California Craftsman Bungalow.