Berkeley Backyard Retreat: Japanese-Inspired Garden with Waterfall

Lisa and Tim Goodman (landscape designers/contractors) transformed their Berkeley backyard from lawn-and-flowers to a Japanese-inspired retreat with a rock waterfall, stream, subtle foliage plants, and two vine-covered arbors. French doors off the kitchen improve access. Ample seating aids entertaining; rocks and water create a "magical playground" for their son.

Tips & Tricks

• Slim fences: Narrow slats visually recede.
• Privacy with sound: Water murmur masks noise.
• Green screen: Narrow plants (azara, Japanese maple, weeping bamboo) and vine arbors block neighbor views.