Located in the Cascade Mountain foothills near Bellingham, Washington, this renovation project implemented a new vision for landscape and architecture alike. Construction of the main residence and surrounding landscape had occurred in the 1980’s. The new residence and landscape contain elements of modernist design juxtaposed with traditional materials and elements.

The updated planting design accentuates layers of transition from upper site to shoreline. As one approaches from guest parking to main residence, mature ponderosa pine and rhododendrons give way to a kousa dogwood grove underplanted with bishop’s hat and Japanese anemone. New concrete walls create a dining court featuring boxwood, sarcococca, bear’s breeches, and Italian limestone columns. Shoreline plantings include masses of lavender, ornamental grasses, and iris's below groves of Himalayan birch.

Photography: Dale Lang