Sunset Living in the West

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Country Cool
(November 2008 Issue)

by Julie Chai
Photographs by Norm Plate

A Circular Patio in the Alexander Valley Embraces Its Shade Tree

Sitting Area

Photo Key

1.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.

2. Permeable Paving
Pacific Gold gravel paves the patio, letting rainwater through to tree roots and creating visual
serenity against the distant grasses and grapevines.

3. Leafy Cover
Green Loropetalum chinense grows along the wall's rugged exterior, while Boston ivy (which
turns reddish in fall) cloaks the stones.

4. Tree Trim
A small circle of stones that match the wall surrounds the base of the sycamore tree, whose
lacy canopy shades the west-facing patio.

5. Border in Pots
Each of four containers holds a single 'Little Gem' magnolia about 12 feet tall, shading the
adjacent master bedroom.