Larsen Landscape | Blog

It’s the academy awards, the Superbowl (or commercials for those who aren’t fans), and in our world, the very start of the new

Old World Charm - Waterfall

landscape season. It is the rains we are getting now which will make everything green and lush in just a few more weeks. This is also the perfect time to give your garden plants their first feeding for the year.

Manicured Entry

In looking over our landscape pictures, I noticed these two photos and thought you might like them. They represent the two ends of the spectrum that we do (rustic, old world charm and the manicured look.) Hope this gives you some ideas for your own property.

This project was just completed and has some interesting design aspects that I thought you’d like to know about.

Outdoor Covered Kitchen

There was a traditional patio area installed right outside the back door with a shade cover. The larger patio, however, was put in the corner of the large yard with a connecting walkway. It also has a shade cover, built with extra engineering for strength since it is not supported by the house. In addition to the general garden lighting, this patio roof also has several light fixtures which are controlled by a switch outside the back door. Combined, the patio spaces provide lots of area for people to sit during a larger party.

The outdoor kitchen was also install under the shade cover in the larger patio area along with bar seating for four to six people. There is room for a table and chairs as well but, just like an indoor kitchen, much of the socializing tends to take place at the bar when the cooking is going on. This type of design approach also helps to keep the cook from being shut out of the conversation.

There is a good sized lawn area for the children to play in, a veggie garden area and perimeter planters to soften the fence. A key feature is the putting green which is made of synthetic grass to avoid maintenance. Since the client is an avid golfer, this was a very

Putting Green

important item.

We have been having some beautiful weather lately but the official start of spring is moving up fast. It has always been my opinion that the best time to get outdoor projects done is before the best months for outdoor living arrives and this is a perfect example. We put as much care as possible into every project so our clients are thrilled with the final result.

Santa Rosa Valley Custom Masonry Entryway

Actually, this isn’t located in Santa Barbara, it is Santa Rosa Valley, CA. But who could tell? The brass mission bell was purchased some time ago by the client and we endeavored to worked with the design to feature that piece and incorporate it in the landscape. By using it with rustic masonry, we accomplished  the goal.  This was achieved using custom framed stucco to create the archway for the door and the little statue recesses in the walls as well as used brick to make it look like it has been there for a hundred years.

Santa Rosa Valley Custome Landscape and Masonry

The client helped on the final touches with trips to some various garden stores to get appropriate ornements, flower pots statues ect.

These photos are representative of softening up the look of a landscape with curves and color.

Front Entryway Planter

The project with the curved wall at the front entry was recently completed and still needs some time to grow in. The lines leading into the front door are much softer and more inviting now with the new design. There is a small patio next to the front entry foyer that can be used for decorative furniture, a fountain or just some ornamental planters. Any of these options will work and welcome neighbors and  friends to your front door with a great first impression.

The rock garden was planted with vibrant colors over a year ago. It has had some time to grow in. This photo was taken in January

Rock Garden

after the roses in the area were pruned back so this is the winter color showing. It will be even more vibrant when  spring arrives in So Cal.