When I came to this property not only was the landscape a scrappy mess the property also had some very real grading and drainage issues that were jeopardizing the safety of this house. As recent transplants from New Jerseys to Southern California these clients were in awe of all the plants they were seeing in their neighborhood. Living on the water at the Ventura harbor they wanted to be able to take full advantage or the outdoor lifestyle and cool ocean breeze. Being environmentally conscious citizens, these clients were very concerned that their garden was designed with sustainability as a leading factor. As they said in our initial consultation, “Would want or garden be part of the solution not part of the problem.” This property is the last house on the bottom of a gently sloping street. All the water from the neighbor’s houses drain onto this property. When I came into this project the back yard sloped into the house. When it would rain the water would pool up against the house causing water damage. To address the drainage we employed several tactics. Firstly, we had to invert the slope in the back yard so that water would not pool against the house. We created a very minor slope going away from the house so that water drains away but so the patio area feels flat. The back of the back yard had an existing retaining wall made out of shabby looking slump stone. In front of that retaining wall we created a beautiful natural stone retaining wall. This retain wall severs many purposes. One it works as a place to put some of the soil removed from the grading giving this project a smaller carbon foot print (moving soil of a site burns a lot of fossil fuel). The retaining wall also helps obscure the shabby existing retaining wall and allows for planting space above the footing from the existing retaining wall. The soil behind the ne retaining wall is slightly lower than the top of the wall so that when the run on water on from the neighbor’s property flows it is slowed down and absorbed before it has a chance to get near the house. Finally, the wall is at a height designed to serve as overflow seating as these clients intend to have occasional large parties and gatherings. Other efforts made to help keep the house safe and dry are that we used permeable paving. With the hardscape being comprised of flag stone with gravel in-between water has a chance to soak into the ground so it does not flow into spots where it will pool up. The final element to help keep the house dry is the addition of infiltration swales. Infiltration swales are depressions in the landscape that capture rain water. The down spouts on the sides of the houses are connected to pipe that goes under the ground and conveys the water to the swales. In this project it helps move rain water away from the house. In general, these Infiltration swales are a powerful element in creating sustainable landscapes. These swales capture pollutants that accumulate on the roof and in the landscape. Biology in the soil in the swales can break down these pollutants. When run of watered is not captured by soil on a property the dirty water flows into water ways and then the ocean were the biology that breaks down the pollutants is not as prolific. This is particularly important in this project as it drains directly into the harbor. The water that is absorbed in to the swales can replenish aquafers as well as increasing the water available to the plants planted in that area recusing the amount of water that is needed from irrigation. When it came to the planting we went with a California friendly tropical theme. Using lots of succulents and plants with colorful foliage we created vibrant lush landscape that will have year around color. We planted densely (the images in the picture were taken only a month after installation). Taller drought tolerant plants to help regulate the temperature and loss of water from the plants below them. The dense plantings will help keep the garden, the house and even the neighborhood cooler on hot days, will provide spaces for birds to enjoy and will create an illusion of depth in a somewhat narrow space. Today this garden is a space these homeowners can fully enjoy while having the peace of mind that their house is protected from flooding and they are helping the environment.

Photo of a large tropical backyard full sun xeriscape in Miami with concrete pavers.

Beautiful rock garden surrounding pool with assorted hosta
This is an example of a mid-sized tropical backyard partial sun xeriscape for spring in New York with river rock.

Raymond Bray
Design ideas for a large tropical sloped full sun xeriscape for summer in Other.

Photo of a tropical front yard xeriscape in Other.

Deeply colored rosettes of Aeonium arboretum 'Zwartkop' contrast sharply with the chartreuse flowers of Euphorbia characias and spiky blue leaves of the Senecio mandraliscae. With foliage like this, who needs flowers?

High end residential landscape design and installation in Pacific Palisades. We reimagined hardscape, landscape, outdoor entertainment space, custom fountain, garden entrance with water tolerant planting. Huntington garden cycads procured for a one of a kind design.

A Griffiths
Inspiration for a small tropical backyard partial sun xeriscape in Perth.

Different types of backyard retreat in the Tri-County area.
This is an example of a large tropical backyard full sun xeriscape in Tampa with mulch.

Broward Landscape 954-752-7027
Design ideas for a tropical backyard full sun xeriscape in Miami with gravel.

This is an example of a mid-sized tropical backyard shaded xeriscape in Miami with a retaining wall and natural stone pavers.

Inspiration for a mid-sized tropical backyard full sun xeriscape in San Diego with concrete pavers.

Broward Landscape 954-752-7027
This is an example of a tropical front yard full sun xeriscape in Miami with mulch.

Combining a limited use of artificial turf on the parkway and side of driveway with landscaping dominated by colorful succulents, the blue flowers of Buddleia and Alogyne, and the emerald of sago palms, continues to delight the customer.

Babcock Custom Pools: Transforming Backyards into Oases with Palms If you seek a swimming pool that boasts an interplay of aesthetics, elegance, and proficiency, then Babcock Custom Pools is the solution you have been searching for. Our pool-crafting experts boast an extensive portfolio of pool designs that have consistently surpassed our clients’ anticipations. A hallmark of our designs is the seamless integration of palms – an element we passionately incorporate into our custom creations. At Babcock Custom Pools, we take great pride in our unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Our process, from the initial consultation to the final construction, is a testament to our pursuit of excellence. Our team of experts consists of seasoned professionals who possess a passion for creating pools that not only serve their practical purpose but are also visually stunning. Palms are a ubiquitous choice for pool landscaping, and for good reason. They add a tropical vibe to your outdoor space, and their presence imbues the area with a lush, serene atmosphere. Furthermore, palms provide the much-needed shade on a hot summer day. At Babcock Custom Pools, we wholeheartedly embrace the use of palms in our designs, and our clients rave about the results. We appreciate the fact that each of our clients is unique, and their pool designs should be a reflection of their individuality. As such, we work closely with our clients to craft customized designs that align with their specific needs and preferences. Whether you envision a sleek, minimalist design or a more traditional aesthetic, our team will collaborate with you to create a pool that perfectly embodies your style. When it comes to constructing pools, we use only the finest materials and the most advanced technologies. Our pools are designed to be durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance, ensuring that you can spend more time relishing in the pool and less time maintaining it. In conclusion, if you desire a custom pool design that is both beautiful and functional, Babcock Custom Pools is the answer. Our team of experts will work hand-in-hand with you to create a pool that exceeds your expectations. And, of course, we will not forget to incorporate an ample amount of palms – because we love palms and are confident that you will too. Contact us today to learn more about our services!

Photo of a mid-sized tropical backyard partial sun xeriscape in Phoenix with a fire feature and natural stone pavers.

Mikol Maitland
Inspiration for a tropical backyard full sun xeriscape in Mexico City.

A storm water runoff collection area transformed into a rain garden with suitable condition plantings in which to absorb contaminants or pollutants.
This is an example of a mid-sized tropical sloped full sun xeriscape for summer in Other with gravel.

Gavin Muir
Inspiration for a large tropical backyard full sun xeriscape for summer in Sydney with a water feature and decking.