BONNIE is a private residence in San Luis Obispo, California.

Bonnie is a layered, drought-tolerant residential landscape that blends sculptural planting with a strong sense of movement and place. The design organizes the site around a meandering dry creek bed, which functions as both a visual anchor and a subtle drainage strategy, stitching together a series of garden moments from entry to backyard.

A mix of California-native and climate-adapted species creates seasonal variation, soft texture, and pollinator value, while remaining low water and low maintenance. Planting is arranged in loose drifts and raised mounds to reinforce topography and add depth within a compact footprint. Existing trees are preserved and integrated to provide structure and shade.

Material selections—including Santa Barbara boulders, gravel groundcovers, and flagstone pathways—bring a natural, coastal California character while guiding circulation through the space. The result is an immersive garden that feels organic and established, balancing ecological performance with a refined residential aesthetic.

The design was created in collaboration with Nicole Cook of NC Designs in the spring of 2025.

The design is currently under construction.