Old World Charm, Modernized

Old World Charm, Modernized is a reinterpretation of a modern Mediterranean landscape. A collaborative effort between Arterra Landscape Architects and a design-forward homeowner, the landscape balances rustic charm with the historic spirit of Northern California. From the selection of stone that is a blend of limestone and sandstone with tumbled edges, to the blackened steel kitchen and the clean lines of the stucco finished fireplace every material and detail is well curated and crafted. Each turn opens onto another curated space, a production garden onto outdoor kitchen and dining, a fountain flanked with olive trees opens to a firepit lounge, a no-mow lawn spills into a firepit circle and a redwood respite. Light filters through olives and an established redwood, punctuating soft stucco with sharp shadow lines; there is a soft crunch of gravel underfoot and light sound of water in the fountain, while all is enveloped with the scent of citrus and salvia.