Small is beautiful

This 2-level backyard in San Francisco turns its outdoor space into a spa-like retreat.

Steps connect an upper bluestone patio to a new deck on the lower level with an eco-smart design: By installing the new deck ― built from sustainably harvested ipe ― on top of the old concrete one, that material didn’t have to be discarded.

Two varieties of bamboo (green canes and black) act as a privacy screen along the back fence, while Pittosporum undulatum and a bronze-leafed Japanese maple shade the corners.

Design: Greg Unti, Bella Vita Garden Design, San Francisco (415/ 648-0100)