The dream for this garden was a serene botanical retreat for rejuvenation and lounging with friends and family. We created a lush landing spot for the cedar sauna, so the fluffy groundcover greets your feet on the way over to the soaking tub.

Since design began, this space has seen a lot of change, including a beautiful ADU renovation designed by Reuben Alt. The outdoor shower is still forthcoming, but the connection between the ADU’s soaking tub and sauna is already strong. The feathery leaves of the pepper tree dance with the wind, and create dappled shade and privacy for a future outdoor shower.

The plants shift from bold and lush by the sauna to more native and pollinator-focused by the main house. The fried-egg flowers of the Matilija poppy sway in the breeze and welcome visitors to the garden.