Garden Rooms
In the spring and summer, my mind naturally turns towards the outdoors, and fair-weather pursuits. What a wonderful time to relax in an outdoor garden or garden-inspired room!

One such magical place is Filoli Gardens in Northern California. If you’re lucky enough to live close enough for a visit, you should definitely plan a day outing to enjoy the stunning curated views.

The Georgian-style terraces around the main house highlight sweeping views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, in contrast to the formal English Renaissance-style-garden to the south, featuring lush flower beds, yew-lined avenues, and a sunken garden, shown above.

Seasonal spring plantings include daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths, contrasted with blue violas, while the summer display presents zinnias, roses and salvias. This view is of the famous walled garden, with little vignettes to be enjoyed throughout the seasons.

If you can’t come to Northern California, celebrate your local environment by creating a garden room of your own. A wicker indoor seating area, surrounded by glass walls and protected views of your garden, yard, or perhaps a walkway towards a beautiful view outside your windows makes a perfect place to pause and reflect. Then no matter the weather, you can enjoy the space.

Kimball Starr designs homes that pair with beautiful gardens throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Lake Tahoe. Contact her today for a socially-distanced in-person or remote consultation!