Garden Studio Design approached this Newport Beach landscape as a seamless extension of the home’s California contemporary rustic character, layering courtyards, terraces, and gathering spaces to highlight the sweeping canyon views. Working alongside architect, Eric Olsen, the team drew on natural textures, fire-wise plantings, and a restrained palette of olive, sage, rosemary, and lavender to soften clean lines and ground the residence in its hillside setting. Riley Starr’s photography beautifully captures the depth, texture, and serenity of the design, bringing the landscape to life on the page.
From Garden Studio Design…What makes Key View so remarkable is that while it sits in Newport Beach, you would never know it. Tucked into the hillside, the home opens to a canyon panorama that feels worlds away from the bustle of the coast. Preserving that view was one of the most important drivers of our design process. Every outdoor space was carefully oriented to enhance, rather than obstruct, the sweeping vistas that make the property so special.
Another key consideration was fire safety. With the home situated on the canyon’s edge, we had to adhere to strict fire regulations while still creating a landscape that felt lush and inviting. This meant selecting plant material with care—favoring drought-tolerant, ember-resistant species—and integrating gravel and stonework to create both beauty and defensible space. It was an exercise in balancing safety with aesthetics, and the result feels seamless.
Among the spaces we loved designing, the central courtyard stands out. It’s more than just an entry sequence; it doubles as a private retreat connected to the primary bedroom. We wanted this space to feel intimate and restorative, a place where the homeowners could sit by the fireplace at the end of the day, listen to the sound of the water feature, and enjoy a quiet moment before heading to bed. That layering of experience—spaces for large gatherings paired with places for solitude—is what gives the landscape its character and depth.
Discover the talent behind the story… Landscape Design: Garden Studio Design · Interior Design: Morrison Interiors · Photography: Riley Starr Photography · Architect: Eric Olsen Design · Residence Build: KRS Development · Landscape Build: Young Ideas Construction & Mata Construction
