Portland, Oregon Residence 3

Valerie Mehring

Project plan view

Terraced front yards are popular in this client's neighborhood. She wanted a similar structure with a unique look. The cascading foliage of drought-tolerant plants such as Sedum, Delosperma, and Arctostaphylos brighten and soften the terraces' structure. Hardy palm, Ficus, and Phormium fit the client's desire for modern style and a tropical look. The large back yard accommodates several structures including a shed, a brewery, a pool, a firepit, and additional raised beds for vegetables and annual flowers. A wide walkway connects the spaces. A proposed pergola over the fire pit and seating area can accommodate a retractable canopy to provide shade as needed.