The King Garden

Set within the heart of Pasadena's venerable Madison Heights neighborhood, this garden represents a unique evolution made possible when the bungalow next door became available for purchase. Often wishing their garden was larger (mostly to accommodate three active kids), the wish became reality in the form of an expanded backyard carved out of the neighboring home, now used to accommodate guests. The expansion allowed a larger, well-used play field, a stunning entertainment pavilion, an art shed, bike storage, and a firepit to gather around. The plantings are purposefully eclectic, a collection of the owners' favorites including David Austin roses, dusky-hued perennials, citrus, 'Forest Pansy' redbuds, Japanese blueberry trees, and sweet gums . . . all anchored by majestic Chinese elms and towering sweet gums. The paving of the drive, multiple entertainment terraces, and walks alternate between textured concrete, gravel, and French and Belgian limestones-each selected to complement the textural raw plaster that is a highlight of the English-inspired architecture. A wonderful result of the enlarged gardens are the expanded site lines which afford diagonal views and new ways to appreciate the existing home and gardens.

Open Days 2023: Sunday, April 23
Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.