GREAT OAKS

Like many before, a family discovered the Santa Ynez Valley while traveling from northern California to Los Angeles. They soon found an available ranch with a producing vineyard and an equestrian facility, but a home and garden in need of renovation. Because this was a second home, emphasis was placed on outdoor experiences by creating a lap pool as the major focal point of the north garden. Tree sitting was carefully studied to protect existing oaks that now flank the pool at either end. Native stone, used for walls and paving, integrates the garden into the hillside. A variety of Mediterranean plantings - including citrus, lavendar, and other perennials - soften the walls. Beyond the terrace, a meadow of native grasses provides a transition to the tennis court and vineyards.