Andrea Cochran: Landscapes

Riotous, lush, overgrown. Such are the gardens of Andrea Cochran.

No.

Strict, clipped, manicured, fussy.

No, thats not right either.

Eclectic, fanciful, frilly, capricious.

Not at all.

Historicist. Emblematic. Naturalistic.

No!

Abstract. Balanced. Composed. Considered. Deft. Elegant. Generous. Intuitive. Layered. Mindful. Nimble. Particular. Restrained. Rhythmic. Spatial. Textured. Understated.

That's better; these words feel closer to the mood of Andie's gardens. But can they really capture what it feels like to step into one of these lovely places?

-Henry Urbach, Architecture and Design Curator SFMOMA

A new book by Mary Myers profiling the career and gardens of Andrea Cochran is here. It was barely out of the delivery box at Grounded (Encinitas) this morning when I snatched a copy off the counter, gasped, and whispered.... "I want to go to there."

Andrea Cochran is a genius. She is a visionary. Seeing her work is like eating the perfect food and just sitting there enjoying it and wishing every bite of food for the rest of your life would taste just as good. Her gardens make you feel alive, they are what we all as designers want to create, and what most garden lovers lust over.

The book highlights eleven of her most influential and stunning designs. They range from rooftops to whimsical backyard escapes. The Stone Edge Vineyard is my personal favorite.

This blog focuses on MODERN... Andrea Cochran's work is timeless and that is exactly what we should all be aspiring to.

Maybe I should change the name...

nah.

Urban Bench

What an interesting and amazing design from Argentina native, Juampi Sammartino. The Cisca urban bench is a new concept in relaxing. Made of concrete and pieces of natural wood with an integrated planter, its a perfect piece to complete an outdoor room. Its a perfect mix of form and function... and incredibly inspiring!

Modern Art for Everyone...

When you find something you believe in, you want everyone to know about it...

The collection from Terra Sculpture is simple, elegant, beautiful, and affordable. Each piece is individually created and finished by hand. Enjoy the art.

Kensington goes modern

When one thinks Kensington, images of modest Spanish and Mission style cottages come to mind. How do you take the needs and wants of the Client, marry them with the style of the house and community and find an attractive compromise? I don't know.... you be the judge.

before...

After...

before...

A few after shots...

Check the website for more photos of this project

Mix it up at Mixture

I love Mixture!

Located on Kettner Blvd. in Little Italy, this modern home furnishing store has it all. If you are even considering remodeling your home or adding a touch of unique flair, Mixture is your one stop shop. With a full-time staff of motivated and talented designers, Mixture can help you identify the perfect product or furnishing for your space.

I especially love the original artwork on display from local and internationally acclaimed artists. But of course we focus on the outdoors here, and Mixture doesn't disappoint. They carry several products including planters by Studio 04, furniture by Kettal, and sustainable plantation grown teak tables by Maku.

Grab a sandwich at Mona Lisa's at wander over to Mixture, you won't be disappointed.