The Cresta Verde project breathes life into a neglected, stark driveway island, creating a harmonious blend of form, function, and sustainability. Located in the high desert, this dynamic design addresses challenges like poor soil quality, water runoff, and erosion while delivering a warm and welcoming entrance to the property.

Mark G. Brotton’s sustainable, water-wise vision brought this transformation to life with three serpentine moss-rock walls that artfully break up the space while passively capturing and redirecting water. Paired with an undulating dry river rock swale, these walls channel water into root zone wells that nourish native trees and plants, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem.

Four native Piñon Pine trees were thoughtfully positioned to provide structure and shade while preserving scenic view corridors. The planting palette features regionally sourced grasses, shrubs, and wildflowers selected for their hardiness and seasonal beauty. Soil amendments enriched the planting areas, enhancing biodiversity and creating a foundation for long-term growth.

To ensure the success of this lush transformation, an efficient irrigation system was installed to establish the new plantings. Over time, the design eliminates the need for supplemental irrigation, relying entirely on natural precipitation to sustain its beauty.

The environmentally sound approach extends to using locally sourced moss-rock, native seeds, and compost, minimizing the project's ecological footprint. From barren to breathtaking, the Cresta Verde project now thrives as a vibrant, biodiverse oasis that highlights the resilience of the high desert.