Spanish Revival Cottage

Project Overview

In a Palo Alto neighborhood where most homes have been replaced with larger builds, these retired homeowners chose preservation over expansion. They wanted to keep the charm of their 1930s Spanish Revival cottage while creating a garden that better supported their lifestyle—private, abundant, and low-maintenance.

We reimagined the front yard as an extension of their home, blending natural materials and native planting with careful grading and discreet infrastructure work. A vintage garden bridge was preserved in place, and the surrounding terrain was adjusted to address long-standing drainage issues affecting the foundation.

Key Improvements

• Integrated Drainage System We redesigned the terrain and added an integrated system to redirect water flow away from the home and prevent future damage—supporting both function and longevity.

• Structural Repair As part of the landscape project, performed structural work in the basement area to remediate damage from previous water intrusion.

• Native & Drought-Tolerant Planting Selected plants to attract butterflies and hummingbirds, with a focus on Mediterranean and California natives that thrive in partial shade.

• Sustainable Materials Used custom sustainable hardwood paneling to frame the garden entrance. Pathways and raised planting zones were integrated into the site with natural stone elements.

• Subtle Lighting Accents Low-profile lighting highlights key paths and plantings without overwhelming the garden’s natural feel.

Result

The reworked landscape adds serenity and purpose to a previously underused space. What was once a patchy, weedy yard is now a layered garden that feels both secluded and welcoming. Perfect for enjoying light-filled mornings or chatting with neighbors at the edge of the path.

By addressing the site’s structural needs without overbuilding, we helped the owners stay rooted in their home while upgrading the experience of everyday living.