Raindrop Garden Design

This home is situated along a green space bordering the Tualatin River. With a backdrop of towering Fir trees and the sound of the river in the distance, the homeowners realized they were not using their backyard to its potential. Paths were set to make the entire yard and green space accessible. The deck was enlarged and updated to accommodate entertaining larger groups. A quiet patio retreat built with recycled rock pavers sits next to a bubbling water feature constructed from local rock gathered from the property. The plantings were chosen to give a natural transition to the surrounding woodland setting.

$700

West Linn, OR

Mature trees set a woodland backdrop for this multi-use yard. A flagstone path connects the private paver patio with the nearby bubbling rock water feature to a kid's play space, creating a sense of playful adventure. An attractive rain garden filters and slows down the dispersion of roof runoff. A perennial and cut flower bed add a blast of color seen from the deck above.

$700

Lake Oswego, OR

The homeowners were ready to update their outdoor living space to fit their needs and accommodate their two active rescued dogs. The goal is to create an inviting outdoor area that's healthy, sustainable and canine compatible. Sustainable practices include rain barrels to capture water to reuse on site, planting fruit trees and raised edible beds adding permeable hardscape materials. A rejuvenated lawn and reinforced mulch paths in the natural back area offer plenty of space for agility training and just plain having fun.

$800

Portland, OR

This woodland setting has been transformed from a steep, unusable hillside into a navigable terraced experience with a woodland amphitheater feel. Plant materials were chosen for a dappled shade exposure compatible with a woodsy environment. The gravel paths and full plantings offer a durable garden that holds up to rugged dog play. A sense of peace and privacy set the tone. A bubbling water feature and pieces by local artists draw you into this woodland garden. Pet-and bird-friendly features provide a welcoming environment while providing hours of entertainment.

$1k

Milwaukie, OR

An overlooked corner in this garden had lost its charm over the years. A decision by a neighbor to take out some trees and tall shrubs provided more light and a new borrowed view, prompting the homeowners to take action and give the space new life. Viewed from the kitchen window the small garden looks great all year, celebrating seasonal changes. The budget was met by adding a crushed gravel path and private seating nook with new plant material introduced to complement claimed and reused plants from other areas in the garden, creating a charming woodland refuge.

$620

Lake Oswego, OR