Testimonials

When a garden plot is part of a play area, learning about plants is bound to be fun. JoAnn and Richard Hoffman's landscape in Eugene, Oregon, is exciting enough to tempt any young, curious mind. Broad paths allow plenty of room for activities, while raised planting areas are filled with easy-to-work soil. Bulit-in soaker hoses facilitate watering, and a multi-activity playhouse beckons when gardening tasks are finished.

The ambiance is that of a centuries-old, pristine mountain stream and pool — an illusion cleverly created a scant two years ago by Eugene landscape designer Jim Robinson. Robinson's company, Daichi Landscape, installed the water feature at the same time the Tinneys' new home was being built.

Kurisu and Robinson transformed a courtyard of wall-to-wall lawn into a serene juxtaposition of stone, water and earth. The garden has become a prime demonstration of a landscape's ability to revitalize and inspire.

The sight and sound of water and a meditative place to sit: This is what Alan Bair and Elizabeth Chandra La Husen wanted from their revamped entry. The natural setting surrounding their garden east of Cottage Grove, Oregon... makes an ideal backdrop for outdoor living.

Landscape designer and contractor Jim Robinson, who shares the couple's affinity for the Japanese aesthetic, transformed their entry by adding a broad staircase that leads from the parking area to the front door, an expansive patio, and a natural-looking waterfall.