The homeowners envisioned a California take on an English garden, resulting in a lush, drought-tolerant backyard oasis. Native, pollinator-friendly plants like Salvia, Erigeron, and Verbena were added to create soft, fragrant beds that contrast with existing succulents. A 'Forest Pansy' redbud and 'Austin Griffiths' manzanita replaced declining plants, while a new circular patio of Sunset Gold quartzite flagstone now defines a gathering space. Surrounded by the hardy, no-mow ground cover Phyla nodiflora and centered on a modern fire pit, the yard is now a more functional and inviting retreat.