our process
Design Goals
Replace non-native, high-water-use plants with native or arid-adapted species to reduce water consumption and improve ecological support for local wildlife.
Incorporate rainwater harvesting earthworks and basins to maximize on-site water retention and passive irrigation, using both surface flow and roof runoff.
Enhance ground cover and natural rock groupings to support plants and create visually cohesive planting areas that mimic native desert landscapes.
BEFORE
AFTER
Strategies
Inventory existing plant life and site elements to inform design decisions and identify what should be retained, removed, or adapted during installation.
Remove non-native plant species and pull back existing gravel to prepare the ground for basin construction and new plantings.
Excavate basins with a ponding depth of 4–5 inches in key areas to collect and retain rainwater from both on-grade flow and buried downspout connections.
Install a 1,650-gallon rainwater harvesting tank in the backyard, plumbed to overflow into adjacent basins, providing extended water availability for surrounding plantings.
Select and position native trees near basins to accelerate growth and provide canopy shade
