Aaron’s Front Yard

Blending Contemporary Design with Craftsmanship

This modern front yard design draws direct inspiration from the homeowner’s professional background in metalwork. At the heart of the concept is Cor-Ten steel, chosen not only for its durability and aesthetic appeal but also to reflect the owner's craftsmanship and passion. It serves as both a visual anchor and a defining material throughout the space. To harmonize the landscape with the home's architecture, the prominent window on the building façade became the focal point for a custom raised Cor-Ten steel planter. The clean lines and bold structure create a contemporary statement while framing the view from inside the home. Below is key design solutions:

1. Craft-Inspired Design: Integrated Cor-Ten steel as the core material to reflect the homeowner’s trade and create structural definition.

2. Semi-Private Seating Area: A 3-foot wall adds subtle enclosure, offering comfort and visual separation from the street.

3. Low-Maintenance Planting: A curated selection of cacti and succulents ensures minimal upkeep and low water use.

4. Olive Tree Feature Bed: A separate planting zone features an olive tree surrounded by ornamental grasses, fulfilling the client’s vision for a Mediterranean touch.

5. Varied Ground Covers: A thoughtful mix of gravel, pebbles, and micro-bark highlights different zones and supports each plant palette.

6. Living Green Wall: A vertical plant screen along the neighbor’s side provides privacy without sacrificing greenery.

7. Lighting Design: Linear strip lighting highlights the raised steel planter, while accent spotlights enhance the space's nighttime ambiance.

8. Minimalist Aesthetic: Simplicity and clean geometry guide the layout, allowing the materials and plants to speak for themselves.

• Design Features: Cor-Ten Steel used to define space, guide circulation, and introduce a modern industrial touch; Dry-Stack Privacy Wall constructed without mortar to reduce visual heaviness and add texture; Play with texture by selection various types of aggregates.

• Ecological Features: Corten steel as a durable yet sustainable materials; Smart Drip Irrigation system ensures efficient water use; Drought-tolerant species reduce water demand while supporting sustainability.

• Location: Long Beach, California

• Area: 1,672 sq. ft.