We were thrilled when a previous client came to us with an exciting new project: a midcentury modern gem  originally designed by the famous SoCal trio Buff, Straub, and Hensman. To our delight, the owner was committed to maintaining the  architectural integrity of the home by retaining the original scale and character of the building and garden. 

A series of courtyards engage with the interior living spaces, creating opportunities for both gardens and quiet areas  for reflection and enjoyment. This interweaving of interior and exterior spaces throughout the property made for a  wonderfully collaborative design process with the architects and owner. A carefully selected palette of materials like  dark stone, ipe wood, and corten steel appear not only in the garden, but inside the home as well. 

The sound of water was very important to the owner, so we designed three distinct water features tailored to each  garden area. A long linear trough at the entrance guides visitors to the front door, a natural boulder feature softly  trickles in the inner courtyard, and a round dish centered on the pool creates a focal point for the rear garden. 

The plant palette is richly textured with large leafy shade plants and cheerful bands of grasses. Mature cycads saved from the original garden now create a dramatic backdrop to the rear deck, while specimen juniper trees bring their calming presence and sculptural form to the interior courtyard. Mature sycamore trees provide shade in the garden and visually connect with the grand, stately sycamores found  throughout the neighborhood. 

‍

Project Team: 

Architect/Interiors: Studio Tim Campbell 

Photography: Caitlin Atkinson

‍

This story is from Issue 9 of The Quarterly. Click here to see the full issue.