Rain Garden Fix for Drainage, Access and Inviting Backyard
Priorities: Ecological Drainage – Accessibility – Low-Maintenance Landscape
Challenges: Misgraded Runoff – Limited Foot Traffic – Turf Berms
Solutions: Rain Garden Swales – Limestone Walkways – Turf Removal and Native Plantings
This residential landscape project solved long-standing drainage issues while transforming both the front and back yards into accessible, low-maintenance outdoor living spaces.
In the front yard, improper grading caused rainwater to backflow onto the driveway and pool in pedestrian areas during storms. An adjacent lawn berm prevented drainage, limiting safe foot traffic—especially for the homeowners’ aging parents. Maas Verde removed the existing concrete sidewalk, regraded the site toward a central collection area, and installed a wider sidewalk and expanded patio using sawed limestone slabs to improve circulation and usability.
To manage stormwater ecologically, the grass berm was removed and replaced with a 200-square-foot rain garden swale designed to capture runoff from surrounding stonework and impervious surfaces. During a one-inch rain event, the system can capture approximately 540 gallons of runoff and hold up to 990 gallons in total capacity. More than 650 square feet of St. Augustine turfgrass were removed in the process and replaced with a diverse planting of 317 native plants representing 12 species, helping absorb moisture while creating a resilient, water-wise landscape.
Eighteen months after installation, the rain garden has matured into a thriving native habitat. Maintained using only rainfall and Stage 2 irrigation restrictions (one day per week), the space now supports hummingbirds, bumble bees, and even occasional wildlife visitors like a fox.
In the backyard, the goal was to create an inviting, low-maintenance gathering space as an alternative to a high-input lawn. Maas Verde removed an additional 2,700 square feet of St. Augustine turfgrass and replaced it with a gravel walking path that connects multiple garden sanctuaries. The existing concrete porch was extended and resurfaced with 2-inch-thick cut limestone, creating a functional outdoor living and grilling area.
The backyard plant palette includes 26 native species, alongside features such as stacked pancake boulders, cream limestone slabs, a Desert willow, wildflower meadow, and succulent garden. Together, the front and back yard improvements form a cohesive landscape that prioritizes ecological performance, accessibility, and year-round enjoyment.
