Opus

A Design-build homage to the High Desert, our Opus incorporates modern elements with an oasis vibe to create a harmonious balance between man and nature, the past and present. 

 

Conserving water being of the utmost importance, especially for a spot that receives over 10 hours of sun per day, Xeric areas were irrigated with sub-surface drip; while the lawn uses a separate pop-up spray zone.  Since the irrigation line under the slab required replacing, we took an extra step to include a passive rainwater harvesting system that captures runoff from the roof, then delivers it to the entire yard. 

 

Repurposed materials like cmu and pavers were mixed with rocks sourced from local vendors.  Large boulders salvaged from development sites add texture and color contrast to the bioswale.  Wildflowers were sewn in planters to attract pollinators, while other “volunteer” annuals that blew in with the wind like sunflowers, asters, and verbena were left to fill in the rest.  Native perennial saplings--Little-leaf Cordia, Skunkbush Sumac, Texas Mountain Laurel, Mexican Redbud, and Whitethorn Acacia--bring both bees and birds alike.  For the finale, we separated local plant rescues from demolition sites into a “Cactus Corner” that draws the eye throughout the yard all the way to the back (the mystic gazing ball was too fun to pass up).   

 

Nestled next to a pre-existing lawn, our homage to the desert allows clients to stroll serenely or just take a siesta under a 40-year-old ash tree.  Aside from an occasional tidy-up, this yard should never need maintenance, saving our client water, money, and most importantly, time.