Peachy the Magazine October November 2014 | Page 26

The Secret Garden
The empty-nest owners wanted a
garden in which they could entertain
family and friends, but one that would
be low-maintenance and beautiful
when viewed from any part of the
home. According to Howard, “They
wanted a beautiful retreat from city life,
a place for private enjoyment, as well
as entertaining. Their wish list included
a small pool, outdoor dining area, a
spot for sunning, seasonal interest,
plenty of guest parking and the design
for minimal lawn.” Initial constraints,
including sloping terrain and needed
privacy from a busy commuter street
in the back, were overcome with retaining walls to create several levels to the
garden separated by three or four steps
each and plantings to create privacy.

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Upon arrival, guests are greeted by
an 18th century horse trough that was
converted into a fountain. The trough,
which features a UV filter to keep the
water pure and clear, was purchased in
the Cotswolds in England and shipped
to the States. It serves as an unexpected
centerpiece for the side garden and can
be viewed from a large kitchen window
when preparing a meal.
There are six distinctive rooms to the
small rear garden behind the loggia:
lawn, pool, hydrangea allée, sunning
terrace, herbaceous walk and dining
terrace. Although the garden style
has influences from France and
England, the plant palette is distinctly
southern using a classical approach.