Years ago, we gave a facelift to a tired balcony garden.  We are not strangers to small jobs, and this was probably our smallest.  The client had very modest needs: privacy from the street, a distraction from street noise, and a couple of lounge chairs.  Simple enough.

We lined the balcony railing with woven bamboo, sprinkled the area with deep colored glazed pottery, arranged plants with varying structure, texture, and blooms, and tied it together with sweeps of polished pebbles.

It’s easy to over think and impose one’s will on a project.  Sometimes it’s better to put my engine in neutral and focus on striking a harmonious balance with three or four elements.  Catering to each and every unique demand can become overwhelming and expensive.  If the vision and priorities are clear, you would be surprised at how little it requires to make a beautiful spot for welcoming rest and inspiration.