Matthew Murrey Design

A well-designed garden can evolve without losing its identity.

At this Highland Park French traditional residence, the evergreen borders, planters, and formal layout create a framework that remains consistent even as the planting changes.

Whether filled with bright color or a softer white palette, the entry garden continues to feel connected to the architecture and true to the character of the home.

For this residence, the garden was designed to complement the architecture and create a more intentional arrival toward the home.

The formal hedging helps guide the way forward, while gravel paths, flowering borders, and fountain views introduce seasonal color and a more relaxed garden character. Around the property, the front garden gives way to narrower side paths, where planting and water features create smaller discoveries along the way.

The role of seating in the landscape

A bench at the end of a garden path, chairs beside a terrace, or a group of seats around a fire all change the way a space is experienced. They invite people to pause, gather, look outward, or enjoy a quieter corner of the property.

When seating is considered as part of the initial design process, it helps shape circulation, views, scale, and the way each outdoor space is used.

In this proposal, different terrace levels were designed to bring more dynamism to the backyard while maximizing the water view.

These levels create multiple outdoor living spaces, along with a pool that begins at the upper terrace and appears to extend toward the sea. Together, they shape a layered experience that strengthens the relationship between the house, the landscape, and the view.