The plan

1. Patio with decomposed granite underfoot, a cooling fountain, a stacked-stone seating wall, and plenty of room for large gatherings.

2. Shaded retreat for two beneath tall cedar trees.

3. Outdoor dining and work area. 

"I created spaces based on how we live and what we need from the garden," says Wagner. "To quote Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, 'If I ever go looking for my heart's desire again, I won’t look any further than my own backyard.' "

Design  Patricia Wagner Garden Design, San Leandro, CA (510/638-6681)