This property started with a traditional lawn: water-thirsty, low in biodiversity, and providing little habitat for pollinators.

A key goal: qualify for Long Beach’s Lawn-to-Garden rebate by removing turf and replacing it with a climate-adapted, California-friendly design.

The homeowners wanted to replace the flat, monotone lawn with something more lush, colorful, and alive — a garden that feels welcoming and full of life.

3D modeling helped communicate how the garden would look as it matures, which is typically 1–2 years after planting.

The parkway was planted with tough, low-growing groundcovers and flagstone steppers to maintain usability and encourage curb appeal.

Every plant selected is either native or drought-tolerant — chosen to thrive in Long Beach’s climate while attracting birds, bees, and butterflies.

A winding path of flagstone and decomposed granite leads to the front door, with creeping thyme and other groundcovers filling in the edges.

This front yard is now a water-wise garden designed for pollinators, with young native and drought-tolerant plants that will fill in over the next year.

Flagstone steppers set in decomposed granite lead through a layered landscape — blending beauty, function, and water savings.

A simple fountain creates a peaceful focal point while also offering a water source for birds, bees, and butterflies.

The new layout brings structure and softness, with pathways, boulders, and raised beds that invite curb appeal and plant diversity.

Succulents, sages, and rockrose are just beginning to grow in — by next year, this space will be buzzing with color and life.

This stunning California native produces clusters of rich purple blooms nearly year-round, especially in mild coastal climates like Long Beach.

Native to California’s Channel Islands, this flowering groundcover spreads gently and fills in with soft pink blooms. It’s drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly, and thrives in full sun.

This California native bursts into vivid blue-purple bloom in spring and early summer, often with a second flush in fall. A favorite of hummingbirds, it brings seasonal color to sunny, low-water gardens.