Kerby Ave

Friendly & social front yard on a tiny North Portland plot

This couple wanted fun and spontaneity in their front yard, and plants with a tropical feel. To that end, Alyse planned a small eating terrace to the right of the front door, kept the site’s old apple tree in creating a little pass-through shade garden, and added bold-textured foliages & flowers hardy in Portland. The lounging/dining area became semi-secluded with a narrow buffer of plants and its elevated perch above the sidewalk. That small slope, which had been a liability before, now is featured. It helps to make the space both a little concealed, and just open enough to greet neighbors if the homeowners wish to.

Alyse carefully thought through the planting plan, and her plant combinations give color and vibrancy. On this neighbor-friendly street, the homeowners frequently eat dinner after work here, or have a summer drink with neighbors.

“Getting this much living space into a small footprint, and keeping it comfortable and inviting without being claustrophobic, is no easy challenge,” says Alyse. “I am beyond happy Fernando and Jon use the space so much. That is everything I hope for when I design a space like this.”

“A garden’s people bring it warmth and life,” she says. “That I can encourage their presence and interaction with the garden, by well-planned spaces and beautiful plants, well, that’s the best measure of success there is!”