Garden Title: ‘The Modern Patio’
The secret to the Modern Patio is not so much in the elements one uses, but how these elements are used together to complete the scene. Incidentally, modern gardening is just that; using available and affordable materials in a way that makes sense for the region, location, and times we are living in. San Diego is home to an eclectic mix of flora and fauna and with its many micro-climates come many opportunities to use not just ‘Native’ plant material, but a panoply of interesting and extraordinary plants. The ‘Outdoor Room’ is becoming increasingly popular, and here in San Diego we are perfectly suited for the outdoor lifestyle, and since most of us don’t have unlimited real-estate, our outdoor spaces demand to be utilized.
“The Modern Patio” is meant to be experienced, not gazed at from afar. It’s a destination, a place to relax and forget about your worries. This space shouldn’t be burdensome or require more time to maintain than one can afford. Here in San Diego it should be planned to use water in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
This design is intended to surprise and delight. The quadratic ubiquity of most “modern” spaces is broken by the curves in the concrete and the black volcanic rock planter beds. The vertical succulent garden draws the eye up, while the water feature, with its sound and movement brings us back to the space. The visual relationship between the elements should complement, not compete for your attention. This show garden was designed to be experienced, and refresh the visitor.
2009 SD Fair submission
