Perched on eight acres in Beverly Hills, California, this 1920s hillside residence is defined by dramatic topography and expansive views of Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean. The Landscape Architect was commissioned to establish a comprehensive vision that brings the landscape into dialogue with contemporary ecological and cultural priorities while preserving historic garden rooms and strengthening hillside ecologies.

Working within spaces shaped by topography, the design reimagines the tradition of formal gardens through plant and material palettes calibrated to Southern California’s climate. Geometric hardscape—paths, stairs, terraces, and grids of trees—establishes a clear formal framework, while planting introduces a contrasting looseness through drifts of native and adapted species that are wild, seasonal, and expressive. Crisp hedges and carefully sited artwork punctuate these compositions, allowing “messy” plants to thrive within highly articulated spaces. Formality is reinforced through calibrated maintenance practices, creating a deliberate contrast between tended garden rooms and naturalized slopes that also supports fire risk management.

The design responds to varied site conditions, from sun-drenched south-facing slopes to deep shade beneath mature canopy. Interventions work around existing stone pines, redwoods, and elms, preserving their presence while planning for succession through new plantings of stone pines and oaks to establish a resilient future canopy. On rocky slopes, native California fuchsia and buckwheat are woven into curated spaces, shifting character with light, elevation, and exposure.

Prior to implementation, the landscape was dominated by lawn and water-intensive plantings ill-suited to an arid climate. These were replaced with diverse native and naturalized species that reduce water demand while introducing seasonal variation, pollinator habitat, and a sequence of distinct horticultural environments, including the Agave Meadow, Succulent Terrace, Stone Pine Garden, Olive Grove, and a productive greenhouse.

A central axis structures the upper gardens, reinforcing the relationship between landscape and architecture and guiding circulation from structured garden rooms to increasingly naturalistic hillside plantings. Integrated rain gardens and below-grade storage capture and reuse stormwater, supporting long-term resilience and stewardship while honoring the site’s historic character.