2 minute read
Outdoor Living
LivingOUTDOOR
After two years of enduring isolation and masks, it’s time to start entertaining, and what better place than your own divine home? Many area residents have turned their abodes into comfortable gathering spaces, where guests feel relaxed and welcomed, and where residents themselves feel the tranquility of a well-designed space which suits their own personal needs. Whether your idea of serenity is a pool and spa, or lush grounds that harken back to an English manor, landscape architects and designers are at the ready to transform any space into the home of your dreams. At The Sanctuary in Mandeville, homeowners started with nothing more than a plot of land, but by the time landscape architect Brian Sublette, in conjunction with the home’s architect, began to lay out an elaborate array of swirling parterres, the end result looked more like Versailles, than this 4-lot home on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain. “This particularly intricate pattern is arranged with Boxwoods,” explains Brian Sublette, ASLA, of Daly-Sublette. “One must be
By Leslie Carde Photo Courtesy of Daly-Sublette.
very careful with boxwoods as they have become subject to blight, a fungal disease which can enter the property from another property with infected plants. But, there are new heartier varieties of boxwoods now, and we often substitute dwarf Yaupon Hollies.” The look is dynamic with the Christmas tree-like topiaries punctuating the corners, and dwarf mondo serving as ground cover amidst the boxwoods; it’s an elegant look. “This design took close to a year with revisions, and the actual execution took 4-6 months,” says Sublette. “There’s a sense of drama here, with the trees spectacularly uplit. With an acre of land, there’s room for the motor court, and a swimming pool, which cannot be seen in this photo.” There’s something magical about this space, sure to be heightened by a cool breeze and a beautiful sunset. Strolling these grounds is the ultimate in relaxation. Writer, Leslie Carde can be reached at Leslieinolamag@gmail.com
