This incredible mid-century modern home in the Montclair district of Oakland was a real pleasure to work on. For the front garden we imagined Palm Springs meets Oakland. We used bold shapes and a minimal plant palette with crushed gold gravel mulch and landscape lighting. For the rear space we planted a lush, tropical garden with landscape lighting surrounding the pool and outdoor kitchen.

Fire-resistant succulents are excellent choices for wildfire-prone areas because their high water content and fleshy leaves slow flames, acting as natural firebreaks. Gravel mulch is excellent for fire-resistant landscaping, especially within 5 feet of buildings, because it's non-combustible and creates a vital firebreak, preventing embers from igniting structures, unlike flammable organic mulches.