An Entry Garden
Seattle, Washington

The client was unhappy with the way the front entry opened onto the large asphalt driveway/parking area of her home. She wanted something to soften all the hard surfaces and give her a more secluded and aesthetic entry. The existing rock wall on the north side of her home did transition well into the front planting area. The existing plantings were place close to the house and over the years had become too large. The plants required constant pruning. They also darkened the rooms behind them.

To accommodate her requests, the asphalt was removed around the front entry and around the existing planting area to the north of the door. Drainage was added to remove water that puddled in the driveway diverting it into an existing drain. Since the access to this new garden area was so close to the road, extremely large rocks were placed to create a series of berms. Much of the mature plant material was saved and replanted away from the house where it has room to grow. Other plants were brought in and added to the existing structure. A stepping stone pathway leads through this garden to ease in maintenance. A sitting rock was placed along the pathway as well as a birdbath rock. The existing exposed aggregate porch was added to, connecting the porch area with the driveway. Details such as the flat stones "floating" in the new walkway and rock "growing into the asphalt" help to add interest and connect the existing areas to the new garden.

Design by Susan Rafanelli - Botanica Designs
Professional Installation
Installation: Spring 1999
After photographs: Spring 2000


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A Simple Planting Plan | Patio Garden

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