Mandeville Canyon

Located within the wooded hills of Mandeville Canyon, this contemporary residential landscape is designed as a seamless extension of the home’s architectural language and surrounding canyon environment. Designed for a residence by Rockefeller Partners Architects and developed while working with Mia Lehrer + Associates, the landscape balances strong geometric form with layered planting, warm natural materials, and integrated outdoor living spaces.

A rectilinear pool, integrated spa, broad terraces, and outdoor gathering areas establish a strong connection between architecture and landscape while creating a calm and immersive residential environment. Wood decking, natural stone, board formed concrete, and layered planting compositions reinforce the warmth and material richness of the residence while maintaining openness toward the surrounding canyon landscape.

Design Approach

The landscape is organized through a series of linear terraces, integrated circulation paths, and connected outdoor living spaces that reinforce the strong horizontal geometry of the residence. Pool terraces, lounge areas, garden edges, and transitional spaces are carefully composed to create continuity between interior and exterior environments while supporting gathering, relaxation, and movement throughout the site.

Planting is approached as a layered and site responsive framework that softens architectural edges while preserving openness and connection to the surrounding hillside setting. Ornamental grasses, sculptural shrubs, mature trees, and low water planting create movement, texture, and seasonal variation throughout the property.

Material selections emphasize wood, natural stone, architectural concrete, water, and layered planting compositions that support the contemporary residential character of the project. The result is a modern canyon landscape that integrates architecture, outdoor living, and the natural environment into a cohesive Southern California residential retreat.

Credits

Architect: Rockefeller Partners Architects
Landscape Architect: Mia Lehrer + Associates
Photographer: Timothy J. Palcic
Role: Project Designer and Construction Administrator

Responsibilities: Landscape design, site planning, planting design, material selection, construction documentation, consultant coordination, and construction administration from design development through final installation.