The primary objective of this project was to convert an underutilized ornamental lawn into a multi-functional and inviting space replete with a vegetable garden, multiple landscape “rooms,” and a variety of ecological features. Fleur-de-Lawn was used in the small patch of remaining lawn, allowing even this portion of the space to have ecological benefits and full-season beauty.

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The Figure Ground Studio Architecture Landscape Sustainability Lush Contemporary Garden Retreat SWPDX 11 300x200

 

This garden design blends seamlessly the existing Asian-influenced mid-century architecture. An existing vegetable garden was improved and reconfigured with custom raised beds and expanded growing areas, providing increased food growing capacity for the clients

An integral multi-functional concrete wall addressed grading and drainage issues while creating a seat wall that delineates the fire-pit/seating area and woodland area beyond. In deference to the clients’ budget and time constraints, the future pergola and sleeping nook were included in a second phase of the design.

The custom combined potting bench/patio table creates a multi-use, stacked-function space which can be used for handling vegetables as well as providing space for food preparation and BBQ-ing.

Onsite stormwater issues were addressed by incorporating a small rain garden into this lush contemporary living landscape. An additional ecological benefit of this design is addition of numerous pollinator-friendly plants.

This garden, installed by Fiddlehead Landscapes, successfully re-imagined an otherwise neglected yard into a focal point and highly used gathering area.

Before/After photo highlighting lawn transformation: 

The Figure Ground Studio Architecture Landscape Sustainability Lush Contemporary Garden Retreat SWPDXbefore

The Figure Ground Studio Architecture Landscape Sustainability Lush Contemporary Garden Retreat SWPDXafter

Before/After photo highlighting vegetable garden transformation: 

The Figure Ground Studio Architecture Landscape Sustainability Lush Contemporary Garden Retreat sw pdx garden before

The Figure Ground Studio Architecture Landscape Sustainability Lush Contemporary Garden Retreat sw pdx garden after