Urban Modern Bonsai

A unique project with many challenges, cultivating bonsai to a higher degree is no easy task. This client wanted a functional bonsai garden where he could create and maintain his collection of 30-40 trees. The space must be aesthetically pleasing with room to formally display the highest quality trees. Space to relax and entertain is also necessary in this 1,400 sqft. city backyard. Space was not on our side.

Function is the upmost importance when bonsai are involved, tree health is imperative but a functioning bonsai garden doesn’t have to lack in form, even when space is an issue. With this design we found the best way possible to meld the human experience with the creation and maintenance of a bonsai collection. The front half of the yard is all about connecting with the home, inviting people out and creating an experience to keep them there. This is achieved with material selection, manipulating space, comfortable outdoor furniture, and bountiful plant life. This is an area for regular use and enjoyment of the trees. The back half of the yard is purely functional and is informally separated from the front half by transitioning or materials, plants and space.

Beginning at French doors coming from the house you step onto a wood deck for entertaining. With space to grill, socialize and sit one can admire the bonsai trees on display.

Bordering the deck is a short poured concrete wall supporting a metal trellis for privacy that converts to a modern wood slatted screen acting as a backdrop for the main tree of interest directly adjacent to the sitting area.

Immediately stepping down from the deck to poured concrete pavers, trees are on display with a modern wood fence at their back and softened with plants at their feet. The front half of the yard is all about the interaction with the home and the people.

Transitioning into the back half of the yard the space opens up to more functional bench area that is centrally located for maximum sun exposure, this is where the majority of the collection will reside. Space is maximized for the health of the trees in this area.

The far back end of the yard, farthest point from the deck, gets less sun than the center of the yard and is the perfect spot for trees that need more protection. This area also includes an additional metal trellis used for reducing strong winds entering the garden from the west.

A custom metal and wood bench design makes this bonsai garden stand out from all others, while warm wood tones and modern design connect with the home-owners mid-century inspired interior.