Transformation from urban back yard sadness into verdant retreat with pond
With expanded deck space, lush plantings and pond as focal point this garden makes the homeowners forget its former shortcomings and was transformed into a retreat that is very much enjoyed.
Before
The owners of this urban back garden desired a private and verdant retreat, sheltered from the noises of the busy street outside. The parking space for a recreational vehicle, now an eyesore, begged to be addressed and to be worked into the design without attracting attention.
On their wishlist was also the expansion of the deck to allow comfortable access to it from the bedroom door located at a lower level. The planting theme should provide privacy and a lush environment, while requiring little maintenance and water.
A trellis provides a support for vines  and screens out the bus parking. The lawn has been dug up, and in its place a fish pond draws wildlife that can be watched from the deck. The sound from a small stream wrapping around the pond distracts from the noises of the street and quiets the mind. The maintenance and water requirements of this garden are low with carefully selected plants. Thanks to the balance in the pond of oxygenating plants, waste-digesting bacteria and fish its clean-up is an easy operation twice a year.
We added a new stone patio to connect the lower lying bedroom door with the existing deck. The smooth transition is reinforced by the expanded shade structure that now includes this part of the house. Â Access to the garden and circulation to and from both parts of the house are comfortable and inviting.
The handcrafted trellis was built in a way to create a passage to the RV parking now hidden from view.The vines on the screen, trees and foliage plants make the garden very private.
A garden path that wraps around the pond invites to discover his garden from different vantage points and so enriches the enjoyment of the landscape.