Sonoma Hilltop Garden: A Country Retreat with Regional Materials

Maximizing Views and Regional Feel

Landscape designer Richard William Wogisch cleared overgrown trees on his Sonoma Valley hilltop home to maximize views, then developed garden rooms using materials reflecting the area’s agricultural nature. All plants chosen for deer resistance and climate adaptability. Themes include a Mediterranean bed, contemporary English border, and succulent groupings. “If I can spend every hour out there, I’m happy.”

Five Great Ideas

1. Bring in regional materials: galvanized steel livestock feeding tanks with drainage holes, planted for a rural feel.
2. Play with color: rich foliage colors—phormium, grasses, conifers, echeveria—accent each room; flowers are a bonus.
3. Paint walls: bold backdrops like dark persimmon and rusty red serve as canvas for plants.
4. Set containers into beds: settle among foliage for height, dimension, color.
5. Break up hardscape: planting pockets soften paving and highlight showy plants.