Crushed Gravel Patio

Norm Plate

Shady patio

A sycamore tree is the star of this yard. Click through to see how permeable paving, a rustic seat wall, and other details complement and celebrate the shady patio.

Norm Plate

Rustic seat wall

A 20-inch-high wall defines the patio and provides extra seating. Faced with ledgestone from Amador County, it echoes the mottled hues of the sycamore tree's bark.

Norm Plate

Permeable paving

Pacific Gold gravel paves the patio, letting rainwater through to tree roots and creating visual serenity against the distant grasses and grapevines.

Norm Plate

Leafy cover

Green Loropetalum chinense grows along the wall's rugged exterior, while Boston ivy (which turns reddish in fall) cloaks the stones.

Norm Plate

Tree trim

A small circle of stones that match the wall surrounds the base of the sycamore tree, whose lacy canopy shades the west-facing patio.

Border in pots

Each of four containers holds a single 'Little Gem' magnolia about 12 feet tall, shading the adjacent master bedroom.

Design Diana Stratton, Diana Stratton Design, Healdsburg (707/433-2582)

Country cool gravel patio design

Shady patio

Rustic seat wall

Permeable paving

Leafy cover

Tree trim

Border in pots