A Vibrant Welcome
Upon entering the Rosenstein’s garden in Metairie, visitors are greeted by a stunning display of vibrant colors and thoughtfully placed elements. At the heart of the space, a majestic multi-trunk Savannah Holly tree stands tall, while an elegant fountain anchors the garden, setting the tone for a lively and welcoming atmosphere. This design is as much about the view from inside the home as it is about the outdoor experience. The garden, seen from the kitchen window, is a dynamic composition of varying textures and heights, creating visual intrigue from every angle. Lush dwarf mondo grass fills in the spaces with its deep green blades, acting as the perfect backdrop to pink geraniums, blue salvias, and sun-loving impatiens.
Meeting Every Need: A Functional and Entertaining Space
When tasked with designing a rear yard that was both functional and full of character, Beverly Katz of Exterior Designs rose to the challenge. The Rosensteins wanted a space for entertaining guests and a safe, enjoyable play area for their children. Beverly’s careful listening and expert planning resulted in a garden that meets every wish on the client’s list. A custom-built, stately fireplace, surrounded by a brick-paved courtyard, provides a beautiful setting for gatherings. The fireplace, crafted from brick that matches the original home, seamlessly blends into the surroundings, appearing as though it has always been part of the landscape.
Creating Privacy and Shade
To expand the usable space and provide an escape from the bustling city, a cedar fence was constructed to enlarge the rear yard and accommodate a play system for the children. The fence also acts as a barrier from the busy street, offering a sense of privacy and tranquility. Inside the fence, strategically placed trees provide much-needed shade. Varieties such as crepe myrtles and Savannah hollies were selected not only for their beauty but also for their resilience in the region’s climate. These trees have thrived, withstanding high winds and even surviving the trauma of Hurricane Katrina — a true testament to the importance of selecting trees suited to local conditions.
An Abundance of Color and Texture
The homeowner’s desire for vibrant plant life was brought to life with an array of sasanquas, camellias, hibiscus, azaleas and colorful seasonal annuals. This stimulating garden is brimming with color, where exotic orange bromeliads add a touch of the unexpected, and blooming chrysanthemums in pink and purple provide a lively contrast. Each plant was carefully chosen to thrive in the garden, resulting in a lush and ever-changing landscape.
Thoughtful Accents: The Finishing Touches
One of the homeowner’s favorite features is the soothing fountain just outside the kitchen window. The gentle sound of water trickling down creates a therapeutic ambiance, enhancing the sense of peace within the garden. Beverly believes that garden accents, like jewelry, add the perfect finishing touch to a space. Thoughtful consideration was given to the placement, shape and design of water features, furniture and containers. Beautiful pots and planters, filled with pink impatiens and ivy, add layers of greenery that soften the hardscape, while hanging baskets and cocktail table arrangements echo elements found throughout the garden.
“Just as jewelry ties together an outfit, art and accents in a garden create a similar feeling,” Beverly says. “They are the finishing touch that makes the space feel special.”
About Exterior Designs
Voted “Best of Houzz” in 2017, Exterior Designs is renowned for creating New Orleans-inspired landscapes that blend the city’s rich Spanish and French influences with modern functionality. Owner and landscape designer Beverly Katz creates signature looks that transform even large landscapes into intimate spaces perfect for both entertaining and relaxing. From old brick patios to wrought-iron furniture balanced with black accents, each project is infused with a touch of New Orleans charm and a timeless elegance that her clients adore.
