corten steel as a wall surface the house already has all the rules
minimize visual access to private bathroom
minimize visual impact
site lines
its all about limiting visual access from the outside and maximizing the view from the inside
persons eye level driving
sky increases as you get closer to the window
standing / walking persons eye level
the idea
making + meaning
CHALLENGE
create a visual screen that doesn’t feel like an outdoor sitting area… or an accident… or forced…. or wrong…..
no one should look at it and feel like it is blocking an outdoor sitting area…. it is not a destination…. its
MATERIALITY
dont introduce another material……. less is more………. just use the materials that exist on the building in a new way……
reinterpret the house material / surfacing idea in a free standing wall…..
ENVIRONMENT
layer the wall in front of the building …….. layer planting without going nuts………. ………layer lighting……… so that the element became more than a wall at night…….
the idea
the idea
the idea
the idea
the idea
the idea
height of wall is determined by site line from driveway
new wall has “thickness” its more than a fence…. its sculpture
wall dimensions
relate the height and width to the house proportion
edge of privacy wall center of left window
uplight wall on bathroom side in this area
uplight wall on garage side in this area
height of wall this “one unit” below clear story windows
edge of privacy wall
cor-ten steel
reinterpret the house material
alone sculptural elements
“fence like” vertical elements
rectilinear holes are good too
holes adds interest
Types of Corten Steel:
Corten A and B: These are the two most recognized grades of Corten steel, with Corten B being more suitable for load-bearing structures.
ASTM A606-4, A588, or A847: These are the ASTM standards for weathering steel, with A606 Type 4 being a common choice.
stand
asymmetrical
slivers are cool
Fire-Smart Landscaping
Understand Defensible Space Zones
(From CAL FIRE & Theodore Payne Foundation)
Defensible space is the buffer between a building and flammable vegetation.
Zone 0 (0-5 feet) – Ember-Resistant Zone
• Keep this area completely clear of flammable plants and materials.
• No combustible mulch; use hardscape or non-combustible ground covers.
• Avoid vegetation touching the home, decks, eaves, or vents.
• Regularly clean roofs and gutters of leaves and debris.
Zone 1 (5–30 feet) – Lean, Clean & Green Zone
• Space plants wisely to avoid creating fuel ladders.
• Choose low-growing, well-irrigated, and non-woody plants.
• Keep grass mowed low and shrubs trimmed.
• Remove dead vegetation and prune tree limbs 6–10 ft from the ground.
Zone 2 (30–100 feet) – Reduced Fuel Zone
• Thin out vegetation to reduce plant-to-plant fire spread.
• Use native, drought-tolerant plants with low maintenance needs.
• Break up continuous vegetation with hardscape features or fire-resistant plant beds.
• Maintain vertical and horizontal spacing between trees and shrubs.
Choose Fire-Resistant Plants Wisely
Not all “fire-safe” plants behave the same in every condition.
(From CAL FIRE & Theodore Payne Foundation)
Key Characteristics of Fire-Resistant Plants:
• High moisture content
• Low in oils, waxes, and resins
• Open structure vs. dense growth
• Little or no leaf/bark shedding
• Slow to moderate growth rate
Avoid:
• Eucalyptus, Juniper, Pine, or plants with peeling bark or fine, dry leaves
• Highly resinous or oily plants close to the home
• Dense, unmanaged hedges or tall grasses
Good Choices:
• California native species like coast live oak, toyon, coyote brush (with proper maintenance)
• Low-growing evergreen ground covers
• Pollinator-friendly natives adapted to your microclimate
Maintain Regularly
Maintenance is as important as plant selection
Tips:
• Remove dead or dry vegetation and leaf litter at least once a year (more during fire season)
• Prune trees to remove lower limbs and those overhanging roofs
• Weed out invasive grasses and use composted mulch (not wood chips)
• Irrigate efficiently using drip systems and conserve water while maintaining plant health
Home Hardening Goes Hand-in-Hand
Before landscaping, ensure your home is wildfire-ready
• Use ember-resistant vents and enclose eaves
• Replace old single-pane windows with multi-pane or tempered glass
• Install ignition-resistant siding and roofing
Resources & Tools
• CAL FIRE’s defensible space dashboard : https://www.fire.ca.gov/dspace
• CAL FIRE’s Stay Safe and Stay Informed with firePLANNER : https://plan.readyforwildfire.org/en
• Real-time wildfire information and alerts phone applications :
Watch Duty :
Focus: Wildfire mapping and alerts.
Features: Real-time information vetted by trained professionals, not robots, including maps of wildfires, activities of firefighting crews, air-quality alerts, and official evacuation orders.
Availability: Available on iOS and Android
Frontline Wildfire Tracker :
Focus: Wildfire tracking and disaster alerts.
Features: Free to use with no ads, covers 18 types of natural hazards, customizable alerts for specific areas and hazard severity, and in-depth information about hazards.
Availability: Available on iOS and Android
Disaster Alert :
Focus: Monitoring wildfires and other disasters.
Features: Real-time updates about 18 different types of natural hazards, customizable alerts based on geographic area and hazard severity, and in-depth information about hazards.
Availability: Available on iOS and Android.
Summary Checklist
• Remove dead vegetation and debris
• Create defensible space (Zones 0, 1, 2)
• Use native, fire-resistant plants
• Keep plants hydrated and trimmed
• Avoid combustible mulches near home
• Maintain spacing between trees and shrubs
• Prune overhanging branches
• Use hardscape within 5 feet of structures
• Coordinate with local fire district codes
innovative projects for inspired clients
spire architecture by doron dreksler
Landscape Lighting Resource Guide
Designing Outdoor Ambiance, Elegance, and Safety for the Discerning Homeowner
Light Where Life Happens
Your outdoor spaces are more than just land—they’re an extension of your lifestyle. Whether you’re entertaining under the stars, winding down with a glass of wine, or simply arriving home after dark, the right landscape lighting transforms your property from ordinary to unforgettable.
This guide is created specifically for homeowners who value thoughtful design, timeless elegance, and purposeful investment in their outdoor environment. It's your complete resource for understanding the why, where, and how of landscape lighting, with expert guidance to illuminate your dream space beautifully and intelligently.
Why Landscape Lighting?
Enhance Aesthetics
• Highlight architectural details
• Accentuate landscaping features (trees, fountains, sculptures)
• Create depth, texture, and shadow play for stunning visual interest
Improve Safety & Security
• Illuminate steps, pathways, and uneven terrain
• Deter intruders with well-lit entry points and perimeters
• Prevent accidents in dark corners of your property
Extend Outdoor Living
• Enjoy patios, pools, and gardens long after the sun sets
• Set the mood for outdoor dining, entertaining, or relaxing
• Create a resort-like ambiance at home
Key Lighting Types & Where to Use Them
Lighting
Path Lights
Spotlights/Uplights
Downlights
Wall Washers
Step & Deck Lights
Well Lights
Bistro/String Lights
Underwater Lights
Smart/Color LED Lights
Along walkways, driveways, garden beds
Trees, sculptures, architectural columns
Patios, pergolas, branches (moonlighting)
House facades, garden walls
Stairs, railings, edges of raised surfaces
Base of trees, shrubs, or wall features
Entertainment areas, pergolas, courtyards
Fountains, pools, waterfalls
Garden zones, seasonal themes, art
Low profile, guides foot traffic
Adds drama and depth
Soft, natural effect
Broad, even illumination
Subtle safety lighting
Hidden, powerful uplighting
Adds charm, ideal for ambience
Waterproof; enhances movement
App-controlled, custom effects
Design Tips for a Luxurious Look
Layer the Light
• Combine uplighting, downlighting, and accent lighting for a dimensional effect.
• Think in terms of foreground, midground, and background lighting.
Use Shadows as Much as Light
• Light isn’t just about what you see—it’s about what you feel.
• Position lights to create silhouettes or shadows for elegance.
Less is More
• Avoid the “runway” effect—space fixtures naturally.
• Focus light where it matters, not everywhere.
Think Smart
• Add timers, dimmers, and app-controlled systems.
• Set zones for different moods or occasions.
Lighting by Landscape Feature
• Trees: Uplight majestic trees or downlight from branches (“moonlighting”)
• Pathways: Use staggered path lights for safety and rhythm
• Water Features: Submerge lights or spotlight flowing water for sparkle
• Sculptures: Use cross-lighting to create dramatic focal points
• Garden Beds: Use low, shielded lighting to highlight textures
• Architecture: Wash or graze walls to enhance design lines
Quality & Material Selection
• Choose solid brass, copper, or marine-grade aluminum for longevity
• Use LEDs for efficiency, lower heat, and long lifespan
• Ensure fixtures have weatherproof ratings (IP65+ for wet zones)
• Consider low-voltage systems (12V) for safety and versatility
Professional Installation vs DIY
Initial
Design Expertise
Longevity
Customization
Warranty & Support
Included with pro installs
Our take:
If you're looking for a refined, cohesive lighting design that seamlessly integrates with your home’s architecture and landscape—professional design and installation is the key to luxury-level results.
Maintenance Tips
• Wipe lenses regularly to remove dirt or calcium buildup
• Trim plants that block light output
• Reposition lights as landscaping matures
• Replace bulbs or LEDs as needed
• Consider annual professional tune-ups
Bonus: Smart Lighting Controls
• Wi-Fi/Smart Hub Integration: Control zones, brightness, and schedules via app or voice
• Color-Changing LEDs: Set the tone for holidays, parties, or just to reflect your mood
• Timers & Motion Sensors: Automate based on time or movement
Summary: Create the Outdoor Atmosphere You Deserve
Landscape lighting isn’t just a finishing touch—it’s an investment in experience, security, and home value. When done right, it makes every evening more beautiful, every arrival more welcoming, and every gathering more magical.
If you're ready to transform your outdoor environment into a thoughtfully lit masterpiece—we're here to help design and deliver that vision.
