Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
NORMANDY PARK SANCTUARY
To satisfy the clients’ desire for a beautiful yet highly water-efficient and low-maintenance landscape we relied heavily on the use of native and drought-tolerant plants to create a garden where Pacific Northwest lush meets Zen simplicity. We retained existing mature trees and large floribunda roses, took advantage of existing ivy and unsightly cyclone fencing to create a green ‘hedge’ fence, and removed the expanse of lawn. In its place we established a soft ground plane of compacted fine gravel and fertile mulch to contrast lush swathes of vegetation. The effect is open, verdant, and calm. Blocks of contrasting foliar color, large Brown Mountain Basalt stone and earth-toned pots are employed in a variety of ways to provide structure and focal points in the landscape.
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LAKE WASHINGTON OVERLOOK
Graced with several of the largest second-growth Douglas Firs in Seattle and gorgeous views of the lake, this landscape awes with mature simplicity. Under towering conifers the middle canopy consists primarily of mature deciduous trees and large rhododendrons, while the majority of the understory is made up of hardy natives like sword fern, salal and mahonia. This landscape showcases the beauty of sustainable plant choices and respect for long-term ecological health working in harmony with spectacular views.
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EDMONDS FOREST EDGE
This plant-lover’s garden straddles the edge of existing forest. The front garden is bright and open. A generous stonework path/patio is lined with seat rocks for enjoying perennial plantings. The wisteria arbor provides a contemplative space at the transition to the shaded back yard sanctuary. Stonework and decking near the house give way to soft bark paths through forest reclaimed from aggressive invasive species. Mixed-hedge-and-panel systems screen close neighbors at the sides of the property. Throughout the property various art installations create focal points in the landscape.
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LAURELHURST WATERFRONT
This elegant lakeside estate contains a variety of spaces, from large to small and formal to informal, designed for different functions and moods. Located mostly on a steep slope, the landscape is organized into a series of terraces connected by a gracious concrete and brick staircase. As the landscape and the needs of the client have grown and changed, improvements such as the renovated concrete patio, a contemplative garden, a small fruit orchard, and a vegetable garden have been thoughtfully integrated with existing architectural and landscape details. In addition to construction and renovation, Van Sanden Landscaping’s skilled long-term maintenance approaches keep the landscape looking its best year-round. In addition to construction and renovation, Van Sanden Landscaping’s skilled long-term maintenance keeps the landscape looking its best year-round. Mature shade trees and shrubs are carefully pruned to achieve graceful form, to satisfy the desire for privacy and views, and to optimize vegetation health.
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