Seaside Chill

Relaxed coastal beauty by the sea

The Lawson family wanted a garden that embraced the laid-back charm of coastal living while maintaining a refined, timeless appeal. They envisioned an outdoor space that felt effortlessly in tune with the natural seaside environment, using hardy plants, organic textures, and carefully designed spaces for unwinding. The goal was to create a landscape that required minimal upkeep yet remained beautiful and inviting throughout the seasons. With sweeping ocean views, salty breezes, and a warm, golden light washing over the space, their garden needed to complement the surrounding coastal beauty while offering a peaceful retreat for both relaxation and entertaining.A windswept and barren landscape

The original garden struggled with harsh coastal winds and sandy soil, making it difficult for traditional plants to thrive. The outdoor space felt exposed and lacked the inviting, effortless feel the Lawsons wanted for their seaside retreat.

A windswept and barren landscape

Before the transformation, the garden was exposed and unprotected from the harsh coastal elements. The strong winds carried salt and sand, making it difficult for many traditional plants to survive. The soil was dry and lacked nutrients, and the space itself felt stark, lacking warmth and character. With no defined seating areas or thoughtful design elements, the outdoor space was underutilized, failing to provide the cozy seaside retreat the Lawsons desired.

Instead of feeling like an extension of their home, the garden was an empty, windswept patch of land that needed both structure and softness to bring it to life. The family wanted a design that would withstand the coastal climate while providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Dune grasses and coastal textures

To create a landscape that could thrive in its natural environment, we introduced a selection of hardy, salt-tolerant plants, including native dune grasses, wispy pampas, and rugged succulents. These plants not only blended effortlessly with the surrounding shoreline but also added movement and texture, swaying gently with the ocean breeze. Sandy pathways meandered through the space, leading to intimate seating areas framed by driftwood accents and smooth, weathered stones. Light wooden decks provided structured yet relaxed lounging spaces, featuring woven loungers and soft linen cushions for an easygoing, beachside aesthetic.

Subtle pops of color came from flowering coastal shrubs, bringing life and vibrancy without overwhelming the serene palette. The combination of organic textures, natural materials, and resilient greenery resulted in a garden that felt effortlessly beautiful, inviting, and in perfect harmony with the sea.

A breezy coastal retreat

The final transformation turned an empty, windswept yard into a peaceful sanctuary that truly embraces coastal living. The garden now feels effortlessly in tune with its surroundings, offering the Lawson family a private retreat where they can reconnect with nature and enjoy the ever-changing beauty of the ocean.

Whether sipping morning coffee with the sound of waves in the background, gathering with friends for sunset drinks on the deck, or simply taking in the coastal breeze, the family now has an outdoor space that perfectly reflects their lifestyle. This breezy coastal retreat is more than just a garden—it’s a haven of relaxation, designed to be enjoyed for years to come.