Less is more

A raised bed that runs the length of the patio is filled with a variety of blooming plants and foliage to help soften the tall fence. A striking two-tiered fountain provides a focal point from inside the house. Overhead, white wisteria trained on a sturdy arbor provides shade. "The arbor brings the garden down to a human scale," a juror noted.

"The materials flow together," said another impressed juror. "It's such a good example of how to work with a long, narrow space."

DESIGN: Huettl-Thuilot Associates, Lafayette, CA (925/937-6400)