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In the last ten years,
Grace Riggan and Joshua Bowles (with dog, Sophie), have converted
their home in East Austin with its very large side yard into
an urban oasis. |
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They started
by carrying in tons of rocks (literally!) to provide total
privacy for the park-like setting. The stones were dry-stacked
for over 5’ and then mortared at the top to provide
a planter for the agave and cactus garden. |
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A
cool strip of St. Augustine grass that is lined with lush,
green plants, meanders through the property. |
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But
it’s Grace’s love of southwestern plants that
adds drama to the setting. More than 60 cactus and agaves
that are found throughout the yard add structure, stability
and texture. |
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Joshua’s
goal was to draw wildlife to the garden. He planted the
understory trees, such as Soapberry and Cherry Laurel,
throughout the yard and in this zen-like corner. |
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Worried that their “hunter” cat
might harm any visiting birds from the main water source… |
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Joshua
added a water trough along the top of the fence for their
protection. |
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Having
studied architecture at Texas A&M with Professor John
Fairey of Peckerwood Garden ( www.peckerwoodgarden.com).
Grace and Joshua credit the mentorship of the great Texas
plantsman and artist for their inspiration in gardening.
They’ve
since traveled with him to Mexico on a quest for more knowledge
about
some
of our
Southern
neighbor’s
rare, native plants. They are growing the above plant for
him as a test to see how it will fair in the Austin climate.
Confined by the rock wall, they can control it if it turns
out to be invasive here. |
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There
are splashes of color throughout the yard… |
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But it’s the serenity you enjoy from their meditation
room, with its sliding doors that open to their lush hideaway
that makes you forget the bustle of downtown Austin, a
mere mile away. |
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If
you’d like to learn more about their inspiring garden,
visit Grace and Joshua’s website at www.homeplace.biz |
