From One Small Garden to a Backyard Haven

When a client hands over the keys to her backyard with complete trust, incredible things happen. What started as a request for a kitchen garden grew into a complete outdoor living experience for our client, Ashley and her family. Ashley’s outdoor space is proof that when you build a design on function, beauty, and good partnership, the space evolves naturally.

The Kitchen Gardens

When we first surveyed Ashley’s backyard, she was hesitant about where we wanted to place the kitchen gardens. She was worried that the gardens would not receive enough sunlight. After analyzing the sun patterns in her yard, we knew we had the perfect spot.

Not only would the gardens receive ample sunlight, but the location we chose was next to her existing outdoor dining area, creating a seamless connection between harvesting fresh ingredients and enjoying meals outdoors.

When deciding on the exact garden design, we wanted to utilize the full space along an outdoor wall. We also knew that the only thing better than two gardens is three, so we designed a garden trio. To add vertical height, maximize growing space, and create a focal point, we installed two Ivy arch trellises connecting the beds. Ashley grows tomatoes and cucumbers on her trellises, plus she uses the arch to hang her hummingbird feeders. She’s not only feeding her family, but nature’s pollinators.

Revitalizing the Backyard

Once the garden was installed and flourishing, the project took on a life of its own. Loving the initial transformation, our client asked us to expand the scope to serve the entire family. We wanted Ashley’s backyard to feel more intimate and lush. We selected and planted Eagleston Holly trees and Magnolia trees to provide privacy, shade, and seasonal interest. To support her kitchen garden production and to bring in more bees and butterflies, we added pollinator plants to her in-ground landscaping areas. A few favorites we incorporated were lantana, salvia, and rudbeckia.

Space for the Boys

To make the yard as engaging for her two young boys as it is for the adults, we installed a custom playhouse. We landscaped around the playhouse, so it appears like it was there from the very beginning. The unexpected detail of the two circle windows breaks up the lines of the playhouse and complements the arches in the garden space. It is the perfect place for the boys to bring and hide their treasures.

Designing Spaces That Grow with You

Ashley’s project is proof that the best outdoor spaces don’t need to be built all at once. It is important to start with a solid foundation and grow as you fall in love with living outside. By starting with a functional kitchen garden and building outward, Ashley’s family created an environment where dining, playing, and gardening exist side by side.