It’s hard to think about “interior”decorating when “exterior” decorating is in full bloom.  So, I’m back at the beach again. There’s always so much to see and do, it’s hard to stay away. Also it’s such a “feel good” place, it seems to always revive, refresh and inspire me. The inside will have to take a vacation for a while.

I’ve noticed on walks (not much walking, lots of gawking) through these neighborhoods, how welcoming the front yards and entrances are in these adorable beach homes. (Wouldn’t you just love to walk under those rose covered archways and yell “Honey, I’m home”).  I love all the garden gates, entry arbors and trellises, so enchanting. The yards are small,  so, big design impact can be focused in a small area. The attention to detail is astounding. Each one has a style and personality all its own.  Some yards are like  English country gardens, ablaze with mixed unruly blooms. Others, are Cape Cod style, climbing roses on white picket fences, arbors and trellises (right out of a storybook). Some, California coastal, surfboards and beach cruisers (bikes) lean under brilliant bougainvillea vines dripping from rooflines. A few are sleek contemporary gardens, simple but sculptural . All are perfection to my eye.

(click on photos to see all the details)

There’s much that can be learned from observing and absorbing natural or planned design. Emotions and feelings are triggered. Inspiration gives way to creativity. Then… all you want to do is, go home and tear out your whole yard and start over. (a drawback of the creative process…never satisfied).  Oh well, that’s what keeps life exciting.

What interesting landscape design or garden design have you seen, or done yourself? We would love to hear about it!

 Welcome to Joan and Susan our new blogging budddies!