This project in Big Sur presented several challenges, both in design and installation.  

On the design side, we needed to create a flat, usable space where our clients could grill, relax, and move freely on what was a steep slope. We also aimed to enhance the area with hummingbird and pollinator-attracting plants that deer wouldn't eat and that would require minimal maintenance, as this was a second home. 

For installation, our main challenge was determining how to transport equipment and materials up a narrow, winding road with several switchbacks.

To address these design challenges, we planned a series of terraced dry stack boulder retaining walls using local granite boulders. Given the sensitive ecological environment, we constructed these walls using traditional methods. No concrete footer, rebar, waterproofing, or drainage was used—just natural stone, chipped and fitted together to lock in the wall.

Once the design was finalized, we needed to find a trucking company to transport our boulders from the local quarry to the job site. This was our biggest challenge since most drivers refused delivery due to the numerous switchbacks along the route. When we finally managed to get the materials delivered, the next challenge was the weather. During the project, a major atmospheric river came through and washed out the rocky canyon bridge, cutting off access and halting the project until the road reopened.  

Once the road reopened and we could complete construction, it was time to plant. Our clients wanted a pollinator-friendly garden with vibrant colors to attract hummingbirds. The main issue was the large number of deer on the property and the fact that this was a second home, which could lead to maintenance challenges. The design solution was to use a dominant native flowering plant palette with a mix of drought-tolerant, California-friendly varieties. We used Verbena "De la mina", Carex praegracilis, Salvia 'Pozo Blue', Arctostaphylos 'Carmel Sur', mixed with Agave blue flame and Agave blue glow, Calamogrostis 'Karl Forester', and Lomandra. The result was breathtaking.