Santa Cruz Residence / Adjacent to a nature preserve in coastal Santa Cruz, this residential landscape was inspired by the site’s surrounding coastal grassland and oak woodland and the owner’s commitment to creating diverse habitat for beneficial insects, butterflies, lizards, frogs, and birds. Reflecting the ecotones of the neighboring open space, the design focuses on native plants, full-year pollinators, and amenities to support diverse wildlife. A model of interwoven natural communities, the garden feeds insects which, in turn, support an array of birds and lizards. The property straddles two marine terrace shelves with their characteristic shallow soil atop mudstone, which required careful orchestration of soil profile, plant palette, and installation details. The design nestles a seasonal creek bed into the mudstone so as to channel and retain stormwater while revealing the colorful marine terrace geology. Expansive borrowed views, lively bird and owl boxes, a spa, terraces for gathering and dining, and mow-free play areas ensure the owner and his family spend as much time as possible enjoying their garden.