Every home deserves an entrance that reflects its unique character. This project in McKinleyville, CA, was a collaboration with the homeowner seeking to transform their yard into a work of art that truly stands out amongst the rest. At Green Sun Landscaping, we specialize in bringing these visions to life, building custom designs that stands the test of time.
Our goal for this property was a complete reimagining of the front landscape. The project began with the removal of a failing, cracked concrete driveway and a total re-grading of the lot. This allowed us to treat the front yard as a blank canvas, prioritizing both curb appeal and sophisticated water management suitable for our temperate rainforest climate.
The heart of this design is a dramatic 60-foot cascading water feature. To create the necessary elevation, we repurposed soil from the site grading to build a seven-foot-high mound, reinforced by a custom multi-tiered retaining wall system.
At the base of the falls lies a hidden, 4,000-gallon reservoir. Using a specialized Aquacrate system, we created a high-capacity basin capable of supporting the immense weight of the boulders above while housing a high-efficiency pump and filtration system. To handle our region’s heavy rainfall, we integrated a complex drainage network, including two underground dry wells to manage overflow and gutter runoff seamlessly.
Every element of this landscape was curated for its unique character. We visited local quarries to hand-pick each river boulder for its shape, size, and color, ensuring the falls looked as though they had existed for decades. The centerpiece is a magnificent 15-foot redwood burl that serves as the water’s origin point, grounding the project in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
To complete the transformation, we worked alongside plant design expert Laura Frost. Together, we selected a palette of regional flora tailored to the microclimate, supported by a newly engineered five-zone irrigation system.
From the intricately laid paver paths and the new custom-poured driveway to the final placement of accent stones, this project represents the perfect marriage of rugged engineering and refined garden design.
The finished landscape stands as a testament to the balance between rugged natural beauty and precision engineering. What was once a cracked, flat driveway is now a dynamic sanctuary that honors the unique character of our temperate rainforest climate. The massive redwood burls, some spanning over 15 feet, act as living sculptures that anchor the property, while the winding gravel paths and custom concrete work provide a structured flow that invites exploration. By integrating sophisticated drainage solutions and a 4,000-gallon hidden reservoir, we ensured that this beauty is as functional as it is breathtaking.
This project isn't just a garden; it’s a cohesive ecosystem where hand-picked river stones, regional flora, and ancient redwood heritage come together to create a lasting legacy for the home.
This project is just one example of the custom work we do. If you have a vision for a unique fence, gate, or other landscaping feature, we're the team to call.
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