Hillside Hacienda

A Warm, Textured Outdoor Retreat Inspired by Spanish Roots and California Living

I’ve had the privilege of working with these clients for several years, shaping the interiors of their new-to-them home into a place that feels deeply personal and richly layered. When they decided it was time to reimagine the backyard, our work naturally moved outdoors—expanding the project into a full property transformation.

From the earliest planning stages, I collaborated closely with the landscape architect’s team, offering insights drawn from my own recent experience with pool and backyard construction. A tile I had once considered for my own project became the perfect choice for their statement infinity-edge waterfall wall and the outdoor kitchen backsplash. I also advised incorporating ample electrical outlets—an often-overlooked detail that dramatically improves usability and is nearly impossible to add once construction is complete.

With the pool and hardscape completed in spring 2024, my focus shifted entirely to outdoor furnishings. Several magnificent oak trees frame the property, creating a beautiful, natural canopy but also producing honeydew—something that tends to splatter the dining patio. Knowing the clients wanted a low-maintenance lifestyle, I selected Eco Teak dining and coffee tables that can be easily rinsed clean, and paired them with woven dining chairs that require no cushions and little upkeep.

Across four distinct outdoor zones, I sourced pieces from six different vendors, ensuring the palette, textures, and silhouettes felt cohesive and intentional. We also replaced the existing exterior sconces with more architecture-appropriate fixtures that better align with the home’s character.

The homeowners bring two distinct styles to the table—the wife’s love of Spanish and Moroccan influences and the husband’s preference for modern simplicity. Drawing from both, and inspired by the oak-studded hillside and luminous California sunsets, I created a warm, neutral, and beautifully textured outdoor environment. The result is a relaxed Hacienda-inspired retreat that seamlessly complements the home’s Spanish architecture and invites effortless outdoor living.