Craftsman-inspired front yard in Carmichael, CA (design by Chris Corbett)

Last Friday I showed you a fenced entry courtyard designed by Chris Corbett. After we were done photographing that project, we drove to the Sacramento suburb of Carmichael to see another front yard redesign. This one has a larger scope. In addition to the hardscape and planting scheme, Chris also gave the front of the house a Craftsman-inspired makeover to tie everything together.

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_083_gb

There had been another Lavandula × intermedia ‘Grosso’ on the left but it died, leaving a noticeable gap

The two elements that jumped out at me were the quartzite flagstone path to the front door as well as the amazing lavenders (Lavandula × intermedia ‘Grosso’). It was starting to drizzle soon after we arrived, and the rain gave the flagstone a metallic sheen. (No rain in Davis that day, though.)

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_025_gb

When I take photos for myself, I let me eyes lead me and I ignore everything that doesn’t “speak” to me. On this project my approach was different since I was trying to cover all the angles Chris wanted for his portfolio. I frequently asked Chris for his input, and I ended up focusing on details like close-ups of the stonework and the river-rock retaining wall. Chris also prefers tighter shots whereas I tend towards wider views. It was fascinating cooperating with the person responsible for the design, especially since he had a very good idea of how he wanted it to be captured.

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_080_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_087_gb

The quartzite flagstone is a superb choice, especially in conjunction with the river-rock accents.

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_030_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_003_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_063_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_012_gb

We couldn’t have picked a better day to photograph this project. The light was completely even and made the colors of the lavender pop.

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_052_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_050_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_051_gb

The river rock used in this low wall is local; the American River runs on the other side of the levee behind the house.

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_015_gb

This house is in an established neighborhood still dominated by sometimes expansive front lawns. What grass is left after the redesign seamlessly connects this property to the neighbor’s, which is all turf. Getting rid of the lawn altogether would have created a fairly jarring transition, so I understand the design choice Chris and the homeowners made here,

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_009_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_002_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_069_gb 150610_Corbett_Carmichael_070_gb 

The path in the two photos above connects the driveway/garage with the main walkway to the front door. It, too, is made of quartzite flagstone.

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_073_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_072_gb

Creeping thyme as filler between the flagstone pieces

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_076_gb

The woodwork in front of the house is a great addition, giving the 1970s (?) rambler a Craftsman touch.

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_045_gb

The effect is particularly impressive standing at the front door and looking out toward the street.

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_039_gb

 150610_Corbett_Carmichael_040_gb

 150610_Corbett_Carmichael_041_gb

 150610_Corbett_Carmichael_042_gb 150610_Corbett_Carmichael_034_gb

A few surprising botanical treasures were waiting off to the side:

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_018_gb

Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) in bloom (left) and the most beautiful specimen of giant chain fern (Woodwardia fimbriata) I’ve ever seen in our area

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_064_gb

Blueberries, and tasty ones to boot! Local nurseries have been pushing blueberries for years, but they rarely thrive around here.

And finally a quartet of rain chain photos. With a gentle drizzle falling for the first thirty minutes we were there, we got to see them in action. I had certainly not expected this when I got up that morning!

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_065_gb 150610_Corbett_Carmichael_023_gb

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_067_gb 150610_Corbett_Carmichael_066_gb

————————————————

OK, I was going to end this post without saying anything about the lack of succulents, but I just can’t help myself. Take a look at these low flat-topped pillars next to the steps near the street:

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_079_gb

They’re positively crying out for potted agaves!

150610_Corbett_Carmichael_079_with_agave

Just saying!

Comments

  1. The river-rock walls are beautifully done, and what a great thing to use the local stone. 'Provence' is a wonderful lavender, but yes those flat column tops need potted somethings--something that will stand up to the summer heat. Your photos came out great!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Potted succulents would be perfect indeed, especially the type that Denise usually features on her blog on some of the properties at Long Beach. And of course at par with that are yours too :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. This is another attractive design. I'm in love with that lavender, which is much more floriferous than the varieties I've chosen for my own garden. They're going on next fall's planting list!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Yes! Potted agaves for sure. Did you tell Chris?

    ReplyDelete
  5. What beautiful shots of the house (I am the homeowner, so I may be slightly partial). Quick correction: the lavender variety is Lavandula x intermedia 'Grosso' not 'Provence'. This is the type of lavender that French perfume houses use, due to its amazing scent. This variety grows more compact, with wispy spires, which is why we chose it. We agree that Chris did a spectacular job with bringing our vision to life. He is a pro in every sense, and a joy to have as a contractor.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you! It's easy to take good photos of something that is beautiful to begin with :-).

      Thank you for the correction. I have no idea why I thought it was 'Provence'. Your 'Grosso' is displayed to perfection.

      Delete

Post a Comment