This year's Best Edible Garden contest was a tie. Today we profile co-winner Rob Maday Landscape Architecture in Santa Barbara, California.
The firm's project was chosen by Gardenista editor in chief Michelle Slatalla, who said: "As an East Coast transplant, I think this design perfectly captures how exciting it feels to move to a mild Mediterranean climate where rosemary is a perennial and lettuce will grow year-round."
N.B.: This is the third of seven posts spotlighting the winners of the 2015 Gardenista Considered Design Awards. Go to this year's Considered Design Awards page to see all the entries, finalists, and winners, and have a look at Remodelista's Considered Design Awards, too.
Rob Maday Landscape Architecture's Design Statement: "A family of East Coast transplants found year-round garden inspiration in California's coastal climate. A modestly sized vegetable garden, stone fruit and citrus orchards, and lavender field provide the family with a continual harvest throughout the year."
Q: What were your practical goals for the project?
A: Our aim was to create a productive garden that was cohesive with the architecture and an extension of the kitchen, to maximize the potential use of the garden and to ensure the garden would always be tended to.
Q: What are your favorite features of the project?
A: The ongoing use of the garden.
Q: What advice do you have for someone undertaking a similar project?
A: Placing a working vegetable garden so close to the home is a long-term commitment. One must really have a passion for gardening—otherwise an unkempt vegetable garden becomes an eyesore.
Q: Where did you cut corners?
A: Reducing the height of raised beds is a great way to save money on building materials.
Q: What is your favorite local shop or garden nursery?
A: San Marcos Growers in Santa Barbara makes every project of ours better. We are so fortunate to have their expertise and plants in the neighborhood.
Q: Where do you get your design inspiration?
A: I believe any garden or landscape that proves its sustainability over time is worthy of study and appreciation.
Q: What is your next project?
A: Our neglected garden at home is in dire need of some long-overdue attention!
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