Reader Garden Showcase: Bringing Japan Home in San Francisco

David Polifko • San Francisco • 3 years, start to finish

Inspiration & Challenges

Inspired by five years living in Japan in the 1990s, Polifko tackled budget and time constraints by dividing the makeover into three annual projects. The work became a creative counterpoint to his venture-capital job, even inspiring him to pursue a fine-arts degree.

Project Phases

1. Year 1: Land shaping. Dug out 5 cubic yards of soil to extend the patio, moved it to the far end, and built a retaining wall.
2. Year 2: Decks and fence. Built three decks at different levels, added a stepped fence on the west property line, and a covered bench and arbor.
3. Year 3: Teahouse. Custom 8-foot-square post-and-beam structure with board-and-batten roof, shoji-style door, and wraparound deck, angled to fit a tight corner.

Results

Total material and plant cost: about $7,000. "My garden is the first thing I see in the morning—a great way to start the day."

This is page 1 of a multi-page article. Subsequent pages feature other reader gardens.