Healdsburg Project

Overview

Nestled along the Russian River, this Healdsburg property presented a unique design opportunity: a dramatic slope beneath a newly built deck, framed by mature trees, with full sun exposure in the lower terrace. The goal was to transform the bare hillside into a vibrant, layered garden that would thrive in the region’s hot, dry summer while enhancing the home’s connection to its natural surroundings.

Design Vision

The conceptual design introduced a flowing, textural planting scheme that draws the eye up the slope toward the deck, while softening the structure’s edges. Inspired by the site’s proximity to the river, the palette incorporates sculptural focal points and plants with fluid, organic forms. The final plan integrates drought-tolerant perennials like lavender and euphorbias, ornamental grasses like platinum beauties, blue fescues, and architectural agaves and succulents for a low-maintenance, high-impact garden.

interplay of form, color, and texture envisioned in the concept. As the plants mature, they’ll knit together to create a lush, cohesive tapestry—offering year-round beauty, supporting pollinators, and framing the deck with a dynamic natural backdrop. 

The conceptual design introduced a flowing, textural planting scheme that draws the eye up the slope toward the deck, while softening the hard edges of the lower terrace. The design integrates drought-tolerant perennials such as lavender and euphorbias, ornamental grasses like platinum beauties and blue fescues, and architectural succulents and agaves for a low-maintenance yet high-impact display— offering year-round interest, supporting pollinators, and framing the lower deck space with a dynamic natural backdrop.

Plant Selection

The design balances sculpture and softness but incorporates hardy plants that will withstand the heat:

• Focal Points: Agave attenuata, phormium, and euphorbias for bold architectural shapes and striking color contrasts.
• Textural Anchors: Lomandras, blue fescues, and other ornamental grasses to create movement and visual rhythm, with pittosporum providing a soft green backdrop and screening for beneath the deck. 
• Pollinator-Friendly Blooms: Lavender and coastal daisies to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the growing season.
• Seasonal Structure: Drought-tolerant groundcovers to cascade over the retaining wall, softening the edges.