Thoughtful details can turn an ordinary backyard into the ultimate play space for people and pets
Have you ever stargaze of cultivating a garden full of plants that are climatically out of your orbit ? I certainly have . Despite living in humid , subtropical North Carolina , I ’ve often longed to replete my beds with shade plants aboriginal to the nerveless marine conditions of the Pacific Northwest . But gardeners are dreamers , so we do what we can to create the landscape we desire within the challenges of our realness . When I first met Rod and Melissa , I bonk they were also gardening dreamers . The couple had recently proceed from Los Angeles to Charlotte with two Australian shepherds , a cattle dog , and a desire to craft a lush , Seattle - like garden fill up with Japanese maples , conifers , and ferns .
Their chosen household was infill construction , mutual in larger cities across the res publica . The lot is scarcely half an acre . Sitting lower than surrounding houses in the back , there was little privacy . The result fishbowl feeling was uncomfortable to the homeowner and their pups , whose previous West Coast abode plump for up to a protected natural area . A local landscape designer was initially hired to tame the gradient with retaining wall , to install a bluestone bench , and to plant evergreens that would finally provide some much - needed privateness and softness to the hardscape . Turf was also plant , but the three boisterous pawl chop-chop call on the lawn into a boggy sight .
It was at this point that the homeowners reached out to me . They had seen photograph of my purpose piece of work and felt that my “ Pacific Northwest meets the Southeast ” aesthetic mesh utterly with their dream for the property . Thus began a 10 - year working relationship that has cover several phase , turning an overexposed urban heap into a magical oasis fulfil with plenty of pet - friendly details .
Making a small space seem bigger for the entire family
At hardly a half acre , this many-sided garden has a lot going on despite its tiny footprint . The exaggeration of the longest stack lines helps stretch the space , while specific design details make this a garden occupy with amateur opportunity ( both homo and canine ) .
Strike a balance between abundant plantings and negative space
The backyard was the initial antecedence . This family had three active dogs , so a good amount of the garden footprint needed to be reserved for puppies to bring . But indoor / out-of-door puppy covered in clay is n’t an ideal scenario . So instead of turf — which allow ’s face it , always look a act unkempt when you ’ve baffle dog — I buttonhole to install across-the-board crushed rock paths ( photos , below ) . These apparently offered a style for people to move through the blank space , but they were also generous enough for the dogs to use as a playscape . The stone nerve tract leave a clean , crispy minus space to equilibrize the densely planted , immersive garden beds . The owner want a lot of plant diversity , so without such extensive , defined paths , the beds may have looked like a jumbled assortment . Although Melissa ab initio question the idea that dogs and crushed rock were a match made in heaven , she eventually match , and the concept ended up work out perfectly . The gravel makes dog cleanup position easy and give the pup an arena to frolic without cause damage to anything in the garden .
Next come the planting plan . Even though the gentle curves of the metallic element edging that contained the gravel path introduced some yin to the existing yang , the 90 ° angles of the brick walls flanking the property line of descent needed softening . Additionally , the garden ask to be pose out in a way that observe the eye low-toned and moving , rather than wandering upwards toward the neighboring sign . The excogitation also needed to curb any canine desire to pass time inside the garden beds . And we needed to embrace Rod ’s directive to comprise specific plants that would make a Pacific Northwest vibe . The beds were heavily embed with an immersive tapestry of color and texture . The thick planting also discourage romping canines . Low - growing juniper cultivars that are tolerant of idle refinement , such as ‘ All Gold ’ and ‘ Blue Pacific ’ ( Juniperusconferta‘All Gold ’ and ‘ Blue Pacific ’ , Zones 6–9 ) , were implant because their needle foliage make for unpleasant dog bedding . Strategically placed small trees , such as Japanese maple ( Acerpalmatumcvs . , Zones 5–9 ) and large woody bush , also limit the room for running . blackguard owners will point out over time , however , that their positron emission tomography in the main turn back to the same areas to do their business organisation and mark their territories . Such was the case in this garden . One fleck of sedge ( Carexcv . , Zones 3–9 ) consistently died due to repeated pic to hot dog urine , so we eventually allow the area open and mulch it .
After the back garden was ab initio institute , the work incite out front . The first iteration involved sprucing up the foundation planting and tackling the hillside that slopes toward the street . The homeowners want privateness from the noisy route , so some height was incorporated in a way that feel more interesting and invite than austere and private . An existing Emperor 1 ® Nipponese maple ( A. palmatum‘Wolff ’ , Zones 5–9 ) informed the works palette , as did the bleak gutter and downspouts . I add several dusky - leave plants to create dramatic event and to rend the chromaticity of the house ’s architectural elements into the garden . That sullen foliage was then juxtaposed with rhythmic masses of Paris green ‘ Everillo ’ sedge ( C. oshimensis‘Everillo ’ , Zones 5–9 ) to impart a back breaker of contrasting colour ( photo below right ) . Boulders were added to create a dialogue between the hillside bed and the lower pit wall . eventually , a peastone track take to the woods along the uppermost destiny of the seam and ends at a gate that separates the front and back gardens . The entry point even has a cutout near ground level so that the dogs can peer out .
Exaggerate long sight lines to give a small footprint depth
Long sight lines were imperative , in the front garden as well as in the back . Out front , we used multiple stonelike fiberglass orbit , larger on the entry landing , smaller at the axial end point level of the street - facing bottom . We interspersed these orbs with ball - rationalize and conical boxwood ( Buxusspp . and cvs . , Zones 5–9 ) for apposition and to add together some playful interest . encounter a larger area up close with smaller spheres in the distance exaggerates the perceptual experience of space , make a pocket-sized field feel larger and longer .
In the back , the garden was run diagonally in relation to the star sign and brick wall , capitalize on the longest lot phone line . Tree - form ninebarks ( Physocarpusopulifoliuscvs . , Zones 3–7 ) were installed on each niche of the brick wall to create rhythm through the distance . Meaningful repetition is how we subconsciously connect to a space , pulling the center along in a sure design . If the optic is kept strike through the garden , the gravid it is perceive to be .
While the master crushed rock path emphasize the newly conceive of long sight lines , they do arc around the corners of the home at either destruction of the backyard . Laying them out in this fashion employs another design trick to make the space finger big : the idea of the looker is challenged to envisage the spaces that could live just out of sight . summate breaking ball also helps slow down the gumptious pup , give them a sort of cul - de - sac to turn around and head in the opposite management , instead of hitting a full plosive speech sound off a straight .
Thoughtful screening provides privacy and subtle containment
Most gardeners have discovered that garden are not unchanging but inevitably change over time , and this one is no exception . In the front , a declamatory city - owned oak tree ( Quercuscv . , Zones 3–8 ) finally succumbed to its age and was removed . This entrust the garden suddenly exposed to raging , intense afternoon sunlight . We take this modification as an opportunity to implant Lot of pollinator - friendly perennial , drawing more wildlife to the area . Adding more showing conifers to the skirt area provided shelter and nesting sites for birds , and some of these accession even boniface harmless tinge that are an important protein source for shoot the breeze hummingbird ( photos above and correct ) .
The second handsome alteration that present a design challenge was Melissa ’s long - standing desire for a swim pool and pavilion . The ensue building meant removing a conifer garden that worry the area under circumstance . This improver also create an opportunity to reimagine the backyard privacy fencing . The existing roadblock was replaced with a horizontal - spline cedar tree fencing that was stained disgraceful ( pic below ) . The gaps between the boards convey a bit of delicacy to the space while being tight enough to discourage neighborhood fry from wax the fence , an important consideration when a swimming kitty is installed . The horizontal board arrangement continue the middle low , as opposed to a more typical upright design that pushes the optic upward , another antic to make a small space sense large . Additionally , the black color cause it to recede , name the backyard palpate roomier . It provide a spectacular backdrop for the planting system of dingy green columnar yews ( Taxuscv . , Zones 4–7 ) , white hydrangeas ( Hydrangea paniculatacv . , Zones 3–9 ) , and chartreuse sedges ( photo above ) . An authoritative added welfare is that all of the fence , walls , and subsequent works showing keep the dogs within the property .
This garden will inevitably continue to acquire . Rod ’s heat for plants necessitates pee way for new addition and reimagining vignettes . But at its core it will rest an enchanted place for both two - legged and four - legged visitor that seems more private and larger than it actually is . Every time I visit , I ’m astounded at the magic and quietude that the garden offers .
Ways to make pets feel welcome
It seems like we often talk about agency to keep our beloved pets out of our garden spaces , but we seldom think about room to welcome them in . Simple detail can be found throughout this beautiful space that are specifically aimed at making the resident bow-wow happy . integrate these elements let four - legged family member sleep with where they are allowed to roam and helps them sense more at ease .
Designated open spaces
Whether it‘s a spot that gets constantly peed on or just an region that Fido likes to always rest in , keeping a few open space in your garden beds can help darling feel welcome and guide them to specific zones just for them ( instead of squeeze a prized perennial ) .
Peek-through windows
Many dogs are naturally singular about their surroundings , so put in them in a backyard without a window to the outside existence can finger claustrophobic . A low opening in a fencing or gate can avail avoid destructive climb and jump by inquisitive pets .
Watering stations
hydrous pets are healthy ducky , so outdoor water bowls are a permanent repair in this garden . An elevated bearer serve keep blowing garden debris out of the water supply , while the placement next to the outdoor kitchen ( and beside the beer fridge ) always evoke smiles from visitant .
Jay Sifford is an award - winning garden designer residing in Charlotte , North Carolina .
Photos , except where noted : Danielle Sherry
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There’s ample space for pets and people.If you think that a pet-friendly landscape means a backyard filled with brown-spotted turf and few—if any—interesting plants, think again. This expertly designed property is eye-catching to the human inhabitants and offers practical elements to keep the four-legged residents happy too.
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Plants and hardscape get equal billing.Although the garden beds are lush and extremely varied, they are beautifully framed by the gravel paths and clean stonework. This juxtaposition helps keep the exuberant softscape in check.
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Plants and hardscape get equal billing.Although the garden beds are lush and extremely varied, they are beautifully framed by the gravel paths and clean stonework. This juxtaposition helps keep the exuberant softscape in check.
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Illustration: Savannah Gallagher
No turf needed.The three furry family members of this household needed room for romping outdoors, but a lawn just turned them into mud wrestlers. Wide stone paths and a generous patio proved to be a better play-space option and was far less messy.Photo: courtesy of Jay Sifford
The gravel paths serve two purposes.In both the front yard (above) and backyard (below), generous peastone walkways allow visitors a clear way to enter and exit the garden. Metal edging keeps the loose stone in place, even when rowdy dog play occurs. Because of how big the paths are, the pups seldom feel the need to travel into the dense planting beds.
Decorative elements help the space seem deeper.The front of this property isn‘t that big, but by placing large, stonelike spheres at the entry of the garden (above) and smaller ones farther down the path, the illusion of greater distance is achieved. Where the walkway ends, an assortment of smaller spheres and architecturally pruned shrubs provides a shapely focal point that draws people down the length of the front planting bed (below).
Soften the edges and embrace repetition. In the backyard, angular brick walls run along the property lines and provide needed terracing. Lush plants of various shapes and textures help temper those harsh lines (left). In the front yard, the gravel pathway is laid out in sinuous curves, allowing pockets of repeating plants like ‘Everillo’ sedge to blur the crisp border between garden and walkway (right).
A shady spot ideal for sitting or scratching a furry friend behind the ears.This landscape is filled with seating areas, some more noticeable than others. Just inside the side gate is a corner of low light, filled with textural treasures and a comfortable bench. It’s the perfect place for respite from the summer Southern heat for both people and pets.
Changing conditions can pose a challenge but also provide an opportunity.Sadly an aged large oak in poor shape had to be cut down several years ago, causing the front yard to receive more light. This allowed the planting of many sun-loving pollinator and wildlife-friendly trees, shrubs, and perennials, including the nativar ‘Midnight Masquerade’ penstemon (Penstemon‘Midnight Masquerade’, Zones 3–8, below right).
Screening doesn’t have to feel imposing.Privacy was essential on this urban lot because the surrounding homes sit so close. In the back, a mix of conifers and deciduous small trees create a soft wall of green against the property line (below, right). In the front, a few select focal point woodies, including Emperor 1® Japanese maple, provide subtle separation from the street (above).
Black provides the perfect backdrop.An assortment of chartreuse foliage and white-flowered hydrangeas really pop against the dark-hued fence flanking one side of the pool. Charcoal and lime-green furniture and accessories adorn the patio and play into the overall color scheme of the whole garden.
Safety and privacy, all in one package.Adding a swimming pool to the backyard meant reimagining the garden space yet again. A fence was a necessary element for safety, but by orienting the boards horizontally, the eye travels left to right instead of up and down. This helps draw attention away from the neighboring houses and back to the beautiful landscape.
