Lorraine’s favorite, this Pepper Tree enhances the view from the home, provides privacy from neighbors, and offers shade to the cozy seating area below. The decomposed granite pathway creates a sense of intrigue, enticing visits to the seating area.

Believe it or not, the shady seating under the Pepper Tree was once a slope.

Turning back, we wonder – Is it a garage or guesthouse? It’s hard to tell, now that it’s surrounded by berms and built-in planter boxes overflowing with vibrant natives. Lorraine calls this the “real miracle” of the backyard renovation.

Safety came first in the redesign. Shallow, broad stairs replaced a steep, narrow staircase between the home and garage.

Entering the back garden from the garage feels like stepping into a sanctuary.

From under her favorite tree, Lorraine can view the full landscape. Lorraine enjoys the full view… as well as the details.

The expanse of paved space where Lorraine’s children once played basketball was preserved throughout the renovation and continues to provide play and gathering space.

Lorraine planted the majestic olive tree in the front yard herself. While happy it has grown from a 3-foot sapling into this majestic specimen, she decided not to go it alone when revamping backyard.

Lorraine also purchased a rain barrel from the City of Santa Monica as part of her commitment to conserving resources. Every drop of water on property is put to good use.

What she does not see are some of the things she appreciates most – like the irrigation on weather-based controllers that appear only when in use and the re-routing of drainage that came too close to the home.

Smooth, even, and surrounded by fragrant natives, a pathway leads from the home to the back alley. It replaced a brick path that had become less than level, endangering anyone trying to take out the trash.