Taming the Swale
The challenge of how to landscape this new construction home was complicated by a large swale running the full length of the sloping backyard. Since regrading the yard was not an option, due to HOA restrictions, an attractive dry creek bed was built to maintain proper drainage through the swale while creating a natural looking setting for the new Xeric plants. The back porch was extended with a new paver patio and surrounded by a new raised planting bed filled with colorful perennials. Check out the photos of this project including 3D views of the design model in virtual reality. Many thanks to Dena Townsend for the beautiful installation!
 Xeric Backyard |  BEFORE |  BEFORELarge swale runs the entire length of the backyard |
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 BEFOREBack of house |  Detail Design PlanA detail design plan includes a scale diagram of the layout for hardscapes and
plantings, a plant reference guide and an itemized list of materials and plants selected
for your landscape. |  3D Design Model |
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 Virtual Reality View |  3D Design Model |  Virtual Reality View |
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 BEFORE |  3D Design Model |  Virtual Reality View |
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 BEFORE |  Virtual Reality View |  BEFORE |
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 Virtual Reality View |  Virtual Reality View |  BEFORE |
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 DURINGInstallation by Dena Townsend |  DURING |  DURING |
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 DURING |  DURING |  AFTER |
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 New Porch Steps |  AFTER |  AFTER |
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 AFTER |  AFTER |  AFTER |
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 DURING |  AFTER |  AFTER |
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 AFTER |
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Detail Plans and 3D Models
With a detail design plan, multiple pictures of the design model can be created to give you a realistic 3D view of the design vision. You will also have the opportunity to take a 3D virtual reality walkthrough of your newly designed landscape all captured on video. Take a look at some of our latest detail plans and 3D models.
 Ranch House Detail Plan |
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 Ranch House |
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 Ranch House Front Yard Before |
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 Ranch House Front Yard Design |
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 Ranch House Front Yard |
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 Ranch House Dry Creek |
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 Ranch House Backyard Before |
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 Ranch House Backyard |
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 Ranch House Fire Pit |
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 Conservation House Model |
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 Conservation House Detail Plan |
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 Conservation House Front Yard |
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 Conservation House Flagstone Path |
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 Conservation House Xeric Shade |
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 Conservation House Berm Water Fall |
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 Conservation House Backyard |
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 Conservation House Fire Pit |
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 Big Backyard Model |
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 Big Backyard Detail Plan |
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 Big Backyard Before |
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 Big Backyard Steps & Terraces |
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 View from Deck |
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 Big Backyard Upper Garden |
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 Big Backyard Upper Garden |
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City of Aurora Water-wise Garden
This project for Aurora Water was to restore the Contemplative Garden, one of several themed gardens within the large 10 acre Xeriscape demonstration garden at the Aurora Municipal Center. The Contemplative Garden is the lowest point of the property and was in need of restoration after being completely flooded by a heavy rain. Our new design included timber steps, a dry creek bed for better drainage and a selection of interesting and beautiful Xeriscape plants that create a serene retreat from the busy city.
 Contemplative GardenOne of several themed gardens within the large Xeriscape park at Aurora City Hall |  Visual DesignThe conceptual design for the garden was photo rendered which is a highly effective way to create and visualize a new landscape design |  Contemplative Garden RestorationThe garden was left barren after being completely flooded by a heavy rain |
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 Plant SelectionRepetition of plants and textures with limited use of color are key to this design for creating a relaxing space for calm contemplation |  Washed out PathMuch of the path and hill side was washed away in the flood |  Timber StepsNew timber steps create a grand entrance into the lower garden and also help control erosion |
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 Dry Creek BedA dry creek bed directs water flow to a drain at the end of the garden |  TexturesWestern White Clematis vines soften the hard texture of the wooden shades |
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Dry Creek Bed Drainage Control
A dry creek bed is an excellent way to control drainage, erosion and runoff by providing a defined path through the landscape for water to flow and soak into the soil instead of wastefully flowing into the street. The goal of this project was to create a dry creek bed that is not only functional but also beautiful.
 Dry Creek BedDry creek beds can help control drainage and conserve water while providing beauty and interest in the landscape |  Runoff & ErosionControlling water flow through the landscape is necessary in order to prevent runoff and erosion |  Drainage ControlThe goal of this project was to create a dry creek bed that is both functional and beautiful |
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 Visual DesignThis design includes a meandering dry creek bed surrounded by low water use ornamental grasses and colorful perennials creating a natural setting and eye catching display throughout the season |  Dry Creek XeriscapeA previously problematic side yard is now a small Xeric garden that creates an inviting oasis for pollinators |  Pollinator HeavenThe selection of plants in this design create a living color pallet that comes to life in the spring attracting hummingbirds, bees and butterflies well into the fall |
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 Cat HeavenThe Catmint is a big hit with the felines too |
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Visual Designs
