Carpinteria
Designed as a backyard centered around gathering, this landscape creates a variety of spaces for cooking, dining, relaxing, and spending time together outdoors. Large-format paving, gravel gathering areas, artificial turf, integrated seating, and layered planting help organize the yard into distinct destinations while maintaining an open and welcoming feel. The outdoor kitchen, covered dining area, fire pit, and spa create natural focal points for entertaining, while the lawn provides space for everyday family use. The result is a comfortable and highly social outdoor environment that brings people together throughout the day and into the evening.
Design Challenges Addressed: Accommodating cooking, dining, relaxation, and lawn space within one cohesive layout, creating comfortable gathering areas, and maintaining an open, welcoming feel throughout the yard.
A backyard designed to bring people together through food, conversation, and outdoor living.
Planting That Creates Comfort and Character
Planting was used to create a comfortable backdrop for outdoor living while adding texture, fragrance, and seasonal interest throughout the property. Olive trees, citrus, lavender, ornamental grasses, and flowering accents bring a distinctly California character to the landscape, helping outdoor spaces feel relaxed and inviting. Around patios, gathering areas, and fence lines, planting softens hardscape edges and creates a greater sense of enclosure without feeling formal or restrictive. The result is a garden that contributes to the warmth and livability of the backyard.
Designed Around Gathering
Every space within the landscape was designed to support connection and shared experiences. The covered dining area, outdoor kitchen, bar seating, fire pit, and spa provide multiple places for family and guests to gather, while open lawn areas offer flexibility for everyday activities. Durable paving, gravel surfaces, and artificial turf help keep maintenance manageable while supporting year-round use. As daylight fades, landscape lighting and overhead string lights extend the enjoyment of the space, creating an inviting setting for evenings outdoors.
This project demonstrates how landscape design can create meaningful places for gathering, entertaining, and everyday family life. By carefully balancing function, comfort, and atmosphere, PLdesigns creates outdoor environments that encourage connection and make the most of time spent outdoors.