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.
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.
Permeable paving
Pacific Gold gravel paves the patio, letting rainwater through to tree roots and creating visual serenity against the distant grasses and grapevines.
Leafy cover
Green Loropetalum chinense grows along the wall's rugged exterior, while Boston ivy (which turns reddish in fall) cloaks the stones.
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)