A courtyard with old-world charm

Stylish design and attention to detail give this Texas garden a Mediterranean air.

Sydney and J. L. Huffines had a vision for their backyard in Highland Park, Texas. "We wanted it to feel like a small Italian garden," Sydney says, "something we could treat as an outdoor living room for dining and entertaining." They also needed privacy from a nearby busy street and shade from the Texas sun. To achieve all this, they called Dallas landscape architect Harold Leidner.

Protecting a Tree

Among the first problems to be addressed was a large pecan tree that, unfortunately, was located just a few feet from the main glass doors that opened to the back. Removing the tree wasn't an option. "It provided the only real shade," says Sydney. "And in Texas, all trees are important," she says. To accommodate the tree, Harold surrounded it with a wooden deck edged with brick. The deck allows the roots to breathe and obtain water and keeps the soil above them from becoming compacted. Moreover, the opening around the trunk can be easily enlarged as the tree grows. The deck also permits easy access to the doors from either side of the tree.

Adding Privacy

The backyard slopes gently away from the house. Harold took advantage of this to create a series of levels that include the back steps, deck, patio, and raised planters. "Different elevations always add to the interest," notes Sydney. Impatiens and caladiums lend summer color to the planters that rest against a rear stucco wall. Magnolias, crepe myrtles, and hollies growing in the planters rise above the wall for additional privacy.

An ornate patio, consisting of limestone pavers on a concrete base, gives the garden a Mediterranean look. Detailed with black granite diamonds and edged in handmade brick, the pavers are set on the diagonal. To complete the picture, Harold added an elegant fountain against the rear wall in line with the glass doors.

When the weather is nice, chances are you'll find J. L. and Sydney in the garden. Music from hidden speakers and splashing water from the fountain mask the sounds of traffic. Night lighting showcases the sculptural forms of the trees. Yes, the garden is still in Texas. But for the moment they can close their eyes and imagine themselves in Italia. STEVE BENDER

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Sep 2002
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