High Desert Adaptation
Water reduction
High Desert Adaptation
This project represents the next chapter in a long-term relationship with one of our flagship landscapes. As the site matured, so did our understanding of its water use, performance, and opportunities for refinement.
A comprehensive assessment of water consumption informed a phased strategy—targeting areas where thoughtful change could reduce demand while remaining fully integrated with the existing landscape language. Certain perennial zones were removed and replaced with decorative hardscape elements that reinforce structure and reduce irrigation needs. Portions of the back lawn were converted to a native meadow of sheep’s fescue and seasonal daffodils, preserving softness while dramatically lowering water input. Other perennial areas were edited into tumbled Colorado Buff gravel, extending the material palette already present on site.
Rather than a single overhaul, the work unfolds incrementally—allowing the landscape to adapt over time without losing coherence or intent. These ecological updates are not corrections, but necessary evolutions: a landscape responding intelligently to climate, use, and stewardship.
The result is a site that continues to feel grounded and generous—now with a lighter footprint and a clearer future.
Before
In process
Voices
What clients say
We began working with Ceres as we decided to update and improve our landscape. Cait did a wonderful job with the design and planning. She listened to our suggestions and adapted to our budget and needs. We are mid progress on the renovation due to winter's weather.
We also began working with Carrie as our maintenance manager. She has been a joy to work with — regularly checking in and offering suggestions and listening to our concerns. I compared the costs of maintenance with Ceres to past years' costs, and found them to be surprisingly in line. All of this with fewer worries and a great looking yard.