08/16/2025
2025 Creative Garden Designs by Eva Powers
Solvang, CA
Installation: Rockwood Metalworks
Zepeda Landscapes
Creative Garden Design
🌿 This specific project, the blue little house, has become extra special to me. A lovely and fun couple decided to downsize in the midst of their golden years, from a large home and gorgeous property, to a mobile home park only a couple of miles away. Friends wondered if perhaps they’ve lost their marbles?
Far from! They were planning ahead, looking for manageable comfort, leaving maintnance of a large home and property behind. Friends and family are truly impressed and perhaps a bit envious of the couples new and carefree lifestyle.
They’ve found the ideal corner lot.
The home, a charming cottage blue with white trim, is in excellent condition. It had natural space and mature trees surrounding not just one, but two sides of the property, with an occational deer walking through the sloped grassland. They both love and appreciate trees, and these trees reminded them of the property they were about to leave behind. This little property might just be what they were looking for.
There was a big ‘but’! What could not be ignored was the large and steep slope, and its alarmingly close proximity to the home. The old bulging cinder block wall was 9’ tall, threatening to cave to the weight. It did not help that there was zero outdoor space where one could sit down and enjoy the California sun. No wonder the home was still on the market.
In order for this to work, they realized they needed help visualizing potentials and solutions, before signing on the dotted line. They asked their realestate agent to recomend a landscape designer, and I was given the oportunity to assist.
I especially appreciate designing small spaces, as every detail is so much more present. There is no room for mistakes. It is always a fun and exciting challenge.
Just a few’ line items were on the wish list to make this happen 😂.
Safe structural support of the slope.
Curb appeal
Incorporate a seating area/ Garden room to enjoy, entertaining family and friends.
Lawn for two small dogs
Privacy
BBQ area
A place to grow herbs
Fragrance
Colors
Interest
Low maintenance
Find us a home for beloved collection of pots and wind-chimes.
Add parking space to accommodate three vehicles instead of two.
As we looked around, all we could see was brick pavers of all sizes, and the daunting retainingwall.
It was nearly impossible to see past the many weeds and mounds created by gophers. The otherwise perfect property was lacking usable and safe outdoor space. Were they ready for this?
Having convinced them of the possibilities, the clients took a chance, and they are happy they did. It’been a great journey transforming the space, while living through a whole lot of demolition and construction noice. It also demanded a fair chare of adjustment and patience, while bringing the little corner of outdoor space back to life🌿