Front Yard Refresh in Palo Alto

Project Overview

This Palo Alto home sits along a quiet cul-de-sac, just steps from a neighborhood high school. Our clients envisioned a landscape design that would feel welcoming yet private—a place to enjoy nature, connect with friends, and host the spontaneous gatherings of teenage years. Overgrown, non-native shrubs were replaced with a thoughtful mix of native and climate-adapted plants, opening up the front yard while preserving a sense of seclusion. A new grass area in front offers kids a comfortable spot to relax with friends on their way home from school.

In the backyard, the family had a large section that was never used. We built it into a great flexible space for entertaining and shooting hoops without sacrificing space in the backyard. A clean, paved area provides the versatility they wanted without locking them into a single use.

Key Improvements

• Inviting Front Seating A small, partially visible seating area offers a friendly spot to relax or welcome guests, blending openness and privacy.

• Native & Adapted Plant Palette Selective removal of dense shrubs improved sightlines and curb appeal, with new planting designed to attract pollinators and hummingbirds.

• New Grass Play Area A compact lawn in the front yard provides a gathering space for kids and spontaneous play.

• Hardscape Installation for Flexible Use Paved rear yard accommodates both basketball and entertaining, allowing the space to evolve with the family’s needs.

Result

The finished Palo Alto landscape fosters outdoor connection. In front, layered greenery, a small lawn, and a modest seating nook encourage casual interaction while framing the home in seasonal color. The backyard’s adaptable hardscape is ready for both spontaneous games and lively get-togethers. For our clients, every corner now feels just right—welcoming to family, enticing for wildlife, and tailored for everyday living.