A leaky garage roof and a desire for a raised garden bed inspired the transformation of this garden in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood. Initially, the project focused on placing a raised vegetable planter. Once the garage roof was identified as the ideal location, the project expanded to redesign the entire green roof. This opportunity to reimagine the garage roof and integrate it into the back garden was the most challenging aspect of the redesign. The resulting rooftop garden now offers the owners a raised bed and a small bluestone patio, surrounded by a pollinator-friendly formal English garden.

As the design process evolved, additional elements were incorporated, including the expansion of a narrow brick path along the eastern side yard for easier access, a redesign of the front yard for better connectivity, and a reshaping of the backyard lawn. Ultimately, nearly every area of the property was redesigned to celebrate the intimate garden spaces of this Tudor-style home in both sunny and shady areas. Every element remained true to the architectural integrity of the house, considering the health of existing plants and microclimates to create a harmonious, eco-friendly landscape.

Throughout the project, every design aspect pays homage to the home’s historic detailing, from the gate to the pots to the plant palette. The small space has been renewed, transforming its challenges into a lush, functional, and private area for the owners to enjoy.