Creating a Garden That Works for Your Space

PLANTS ARE A WONDERFUL ADDITION TO ANY OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT, BUT IT’S IMPORTANT TO MAKE SURE THEY FIT IN WITH YOUR LANDSCAPE, CLIMATE AND THE STYLE OF YOUR HOME, AS ARCHITECT DAVID YAMA AND LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT CHRISTINE REED DID WITH THIS BERKELEY HILLS HOUSE. HERE’S HOW TO ENSURE YOUR GARDEN FITS IN.

1. WHAT’S YOUR LANDSCAPE? Take a look at the surrounding landscape of your home. If it’s lush and green, create a garden that echoes that for a cohesive outdoor look. But if your surroundings are arid and sparse, stay away from any forest- like flora.

2. WHAT’S YOUR CLIMATE? Choose your plants with care and don’t plant a garden that requires much more water or sunlight or different soil conditions than what you typically have. Doing this will make garden maintenance easier in the long run, and it gives your garden a better chance of surviving and thriving.

3. WHAT’S YOUR STYLE? Pick plants that match your home’s style for a unique and put- together look. If your home is ultra- modern and minimalist, choose understated plants in a few neutral, organic colors. But if your home is bright and retro, pick statement plants with bold blooms.