Misssion Bird & Animal Hospital
San Diego, California

The overall design concept for this project was to evoke the colors and textures of the ocean and beach environment with both the plantings and the hardscape features.  The hardscape includes areas of flaxen DG suggestive of the feel of beach sand.  The drought tolerant succulents and grasses were selected for their colors and textures that are reminiscent of sea corals and grasses.  Integral to the overall landscape was the design of a series of small gardens which provide exterior waiting areas for pets and their owners. One of the gardens was designed as a quiet secluded retreat for pet owners who have recently lost a pet.  The overall landscape also utilizes green approach with features such as a bioswale planted with drought tolerant tall fescue that does not need to be mowed.  The use of the DG provides for a walking surface that is  water permeable and reduces the amount of overall water run-off.