The Cascadia Sanctuary emerged from a vision to create an inviting and versatile landscape that blends aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Located in Santa Fe, this project presented a range of challenges, including significant grade changes, extreme climate conditions, water use restrictions, and a tight construction timeline. The design needed to incorporate a striking water feature, maintain an open-view corridor to the Sandia Mountains, provide privacy screening from neighboring homes, and create a recreational lawn space—all within a carefully managed budget.

A cascading water feature became the heart of the design, offering both visual impact and the soothing sound of moving water throughout the space. Strategically positioned, the feature was intended to be appreciated from the master bedroom, kitchen, and outdoor living areas. Water flowed through a series of five waterfalls, meandering through the terrain before reaching a large, organically shaped pond. The design incorporated core-drilled boulders, allowing water to spill naturally from multiple outlets, with the final character boulder slightly elevated to create a dramatic floating effect. Steel-reinforced concrete, concealed beneath the natural stone, ensured durability while maintaining a naturalistic aesthetic. Underwater lighting enhanced the feature at night, transforming the space into a luminous oasis.

To address the site's steep grade change, an innovative approach to terracing was implemented using massive boulders that were brought in by crane. These stone terraces stabilized the slope while creating planting pockets to retain water and nourish vegetation. A carefully contoured pathway system was interwoven with river rock channels, directing water to plantings and adding year-round visual interest, especially during the winter months. The lawn area, essential for family recreation, needed substantial soil amendments to promote healthy growth in the region’s alkaline soil. Premium compost and deep tilling ensured the turf's longevity while minimizing water requirements.

A custom-designed underground cistern with a capacity of 4,000 gallons became a cornerstone of the project’s sustainability strategy. The system collected and stored rainwater from the roof, supplying both irrigation and the water feature through a pressure-regulated pump. Passive water harvesting techniques, including strategically placed earthen berms and contoured planting beds, further improved the site’s water efficiency.

The plant selections combined low-maintenance xeric species with strategically placed evergreens, ornamental grasses, and deciduous trees to provide year-round texture and color. Screening plants softened views of nearby homes while preserving the open mountain vistas. Outside the main garden, an orchard featuring a variety of fruit trees was added, ensuring seasonal blooms and edible harvests. To mitigate intense heat exposure on the focal patio, Wisteria vines were planted in openings cut into the flagstone surface, providing natural shade as they climbed the support posts of the structure.

The final element of the transformation was a low-voltage lighting system designed to enhance safety and ambiance. Copper fixtures illuminated pathways, trees, and architectural elements, while backlighting and downlighting added depth to the space. Motion sensors at the driveway entrance and in key pathways ensured security while maintaining a minimal energy footprint.

Completed within a challenging six-week timeline, the Cascadia Sanctuary stands as a testament to the integration of design vision, technical precision, and environmental stewardship. Today, it continues to be a beloved retreat, offering a harmonious blend of tranquility, recreation, and lasting beauty.