Although it could be said we specialize in Japanese Gardens, the influences for each project come from the clients themselves. Many people relate and find value in a Zen aesthetic where scale, mass, and energy movement are all at play and the subtleties make a big difference to wabi sabi.

Others find more value in an English Cottage Garden or feel at home in a Hawaiian villa. We have vast influences and experiences with all world class gardens from the monastic forests of the UK to the low water-high conservation initiatives of South Africa, to the jungle bungalows of Mayadom.

Whatever your personality, your joy, your peace, The Bonsai Life can make it real.

Please let us know how we can help!

Here are a few of our latest projects.

Northeast Property

This exquisite property is shotgun style down to the water. This layout provides opportunity for many distinct gardens. From the shadier water feature garden through the sunnier hillside to the lake house patio and lawn, finally reaching the native salmon habitat of the bulkhead and beach. These separate spaces provide something for everyone and a peaceful experience at all times of day, all year long.

Laurlehurst waterfront

This renovation of a lost lakefront created a lush muti-dimential space that leads from a long hillside descent through the trees out into the more exposed beach. A variety of selectively chosen plants are the guids to either the water front terrace or to the deck and outbuildings. A warm expanse of low planting allows for the strong connection with destination while providing many opportunities to slow down and enjoy the journey.

Ikebana

A traditional Japanese art form, it is similar to flower arranging, but utilizes a more vast material pallet. Here phlox and camellia blossoms are pared with Pine boughs for this homage to late winter.

Senior living center 

The multiple gardens of this historic property were renovated to improve the standard of living of the residents and provide the dignity that this majestic property demands. We renovated many existing elements, utilizing some evergreen and mature elements to provide structure to an overgrown and neglected property. The addition of low story plantings added an aesthetic update and more intimate interactions for the residents and employees on a daily basis.

Terrarium Gardens

These perfect gifts incorporate air plants, moss, lichen and other small plants to create miniature worlds. This installation is in a 12”x4” handblown glass hanging terrarium and is interesting to many species.

Shoreline Estate

This sprawling orchard has some of the areas oldest producing apple and pear trees. The family that built the property has imported numerous Buddhist artifacts to accentuate the traditional Chinese aesthetic. Magnolias, Maples, and Black Pines all offer a full year of interest and a mature serenity to the many gardens.

Urban containers

This recent container installation features fall color and dramatic plant interactions. The set of Champa pots is being used to beautify a utility area near the front entry. The plant choices ensure the interest stays all year, while still allowing a neutral backdrop for seasonal replacements. This planting will always look great, offer fragrance in the summer, and can be supplemented by a number of annual color schemes.

Organic Lawn

Everyone loves a nice lawn. This beauty is even organic!