Outdoor space gets new life

By Mark Sterk, Special to the U-T3 p.m.Aug. 8, 2014

The updated pool area is now flanked by beautiful succulents and outdoor seating.

The renovation of a 20-plus-year-old landscape into a water-wise, functional and low-maintenance space recently earned my company, Columbine Landscape Inc. (CLI), an award in the Landscape Renovation category as well as the Judges Award from the San Diego Chapter of the California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA).

The property in the Torrey Highlands area has a fabulous view of the Del Mar Fairgrounds and the ocean beyond. It also has a remarkable old tipuana tipu tree, which had outgrown its space in the landscape but provided a great shade area and focal point. But the landscape lacked congruity and seating areas from which to enjoy the views. An outdated pool, barbecue counter and wood deck, excessive lawn area, overgrown and unsightly plants, and an ill-functioning irrigation system all clamored for renovation by a detail-oriented landscape contractor.

A beautiful tipuana tipu tree provides shade for a new path and seating area.

Working closely with landscape architect Mike Nichols of Nichols Design Group, CLI enhanced the view from the landscape by replacing an old iron fence with a low wall and glass wall. Beautiful seating areas were created on stone and concrete patios and around an unusual fire pit surrounded by colorful and interesting plantings.

New tile and stucco enhance the barbecue counter, and the pool was brought up to date with new stone coping. A raised planter area at poolside adds interest and softens the lines of the pool.

CLI installed a stone-paved seating area and pathways under the shade of the tipuana tipu tree to provide another view area. The garden areas have been replanted with colorful and low-maintenance plants, including dwarf rosemary, ornamental grasses, dwarf salvias, succulents, dymondia ground cover, beautiful blooming Iceberg roses and bougainvillea shrubs. Standard-form bay laurel trees are planted along the new pool deck and front driveway, adding a more formal element to the landscape.

Auroralight spot and path lights were installed by CLI to illuminate the trees and pathways, create a warm glow and encourage use of the outdoor spaces in the evening. By using a plant palette that is slow growing and upgrading the irrigation system to low-volume sprinklers, CLI has created a low-maintenance landscape that requires less trimming and upkeep. Mulched planter areas reduce weed growth and retain soil moisture.

The property owners now spend much more time outdoors enjoying this elegant and functional new space.

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Outdoor space gets new life