A young family desired that their brand-new home set in an empty lot develop a landscape that was relaxed, friendly and informal, much like an old country ranch. They also wanted a landscape that was bountiful with fruits to be picked and vegetables to be harvested, but with most of the plantings respectful of the hot, summer dry climate of the region. We created a landscape with a casual feel, and diversity of spaces for outdoor living, and a child-friendly layout. A hillside stream and pool/patio area, a more formal dining terrace, and a children’s playhouse were also created.