The clients here had been very frustrated with the existing grass in the backyard since they moved to their house in Fairwinds. It was a real water hog, and the lack of fertile soil made it virtually impossible to look great. There was also a broken hot tub adjacent to the patio that they had only used once since they moved in. They decided to go for it enlarge the existing paver patio to take in the space where the hot tub had been, and create wide pathways and informal sitting areas with large scale, split-face local flagstone. As the yard was set on a slope, we used local granite to create series of terraces and steps, allowing ease of access and great flow that had not really been there before. We built cedar screens, fences and gates in strategic spots as a windbreak, and to create privacy without obstructing views. The plantings were pared down and set in drifts for a natural yet high impact feel. The result is a beautiful, easy-to-care for space that allows unimpeded ocean views and a real sense of place, at one with the natural surroundings.