Usonia

2023

Pleasantville, NY

A Landscape Rooted in Site & Structure

Nestled in the historic Usonia community, this home embodies Frank Lloyd Wright’s philosophy of a “natural performance—integral to site, to environment, to the life of the inhabitant.” Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the residence is embraced by a majestic weeping beech, mature Japanese maples, mountain laurels, and rhododendrons, setting a serene and timeless tone for the landscape.

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  • midcentury garden

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  • shrubs slope garden midcentury

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  • Purple Grass Perennial Garden Close Up

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  • pink perennial garden plant

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Tying the Landscape to the Site

To anchor the garden within its surroundings, I placed strategically selected boulders, bridging the plantings with the home’s rugged topography. Layers of Hellebores, Hardy Geraniums, Carex, and Euphorbia create a textured, evolving palette, balancing biodiversity with a refined, low-maintenance approach.

The result is a captivating viewing garden, blurring the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether framed from within the home or experienced up close, the garden creates an immersive, layered connection to the site. By integrating timeless design principles with sustainable landscaping practices, this project reflects the balance between artistry, functionality, and respect for the land.

Tasked with enhancing the approach, I focused on creating a garden that feels both natural and inviting, complementing the home’s architectural integrity while improving flow and visibility from the interior.

Preserving the client’s cherished roses and peonies, I introduced a thoughtfully curated selection of low-growing, deer-friendly shrubs and perennials—ensuring year-round structure and ecological harmony.

  • Golden Tiger’s Eye Sumac offers a bold seasonal accent.

  • Cascading Japanese forest grass softens the terrain, creating movement across the slope.

A Grounded & Seamless Entrance

  • black and white before garden

    Before - July 2023