Mt. Veeder Residence

Aug 26, 2024

Mt. Veeder Residence

Design, Build, Maintain | 2023

Vegetable Gardens

Design: Penning Landscapes

Construction: Penning Landscapes

Photography: JP Morrissey

The Mt. Veeder residence was a wonderful challenge as we were tasked to evolve the outdoor space, initially designed for a young family to a sophisticated retreat for multiple generations. We worked closely with the client to create a landscape that balanced the 90-degree angles of the modern house with the natural terrain of the surrounding Napa Valley hills.

Our design features a low-water garden with drought-resistant Mediterranean and Californian native plants that is appropriate for this environment. Custom outdoor lighting and steel accents enhance the modern aesthetic of the home, while succulents nestled between boulders add texture and interest. To solve a complicated elevation change around the pool, we designed a terraced retaining wall that maximizes usable planting space and ensures safety.

Per our client’s request to expand their gardens, we designed and built an intricate maze of custom flower boxes with vegetables, fruits, trees and flowers housed in a wildlife protected fence. By handling all three - design, construction, and maintenance in-house - we are able to ensure that the residence continues to thrive as a versatile and inviting space for the entire family.

"Custom outdoor lighting and steel accents enhance the modern aesthetic of the home, while succulents nestled between boulders add texture and interest. To solve a complicated elevation change around the pool, we designed a terraced retaining wall that maximizes usable planting space and ensures safety."

Galleron Residence

Aug 26, 2024

Galleron Residence

Build, Maintain | 2001

Vegetable Gardens

Design: GL Richmond

Construction: Penning Landscapes

Photography: JP Morrissey

The landscape and lush vegetable garden at the Galleron residence has been in our care for more than twenty years. After installing the original landscape in 2001, this long-standing relationship has allowed us to match the vision of the first owner and to evolve the vibrant landscape to the wishes of the second owners.

The new owners desired an extensive vegetable garden as they are avid cooks. We delivered a sprawling and artistically laid out garden that yields a rotating crop of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers throughout the year. The vegetable garden is centered around an impressive 8-foot tall willow archway.
A signature look of this property consists of five large, mature olive trees in the front yard, which were part of the initial installation. This is a trend that has since become a standard practice in Napa Valley. In order to continue evolving the new owner’s vision for the property, we are collaborating to design, install, and maintain the landscape around the guest house, where we seamlessly blend old and new elements.

"The new owners desired an extensive vegetable garden as they are avid cooks. We delivered a sprawling and artistically laid out garden that yields a rotating crop of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers throughout the year. "

St. Helena Residence

Aug 26, 2024

St. Helena Residence

2023 | Build, Maintain

Vegetable Gardens

Design: Jonathan Plant

Enhancements: Penning Landscapes

Photography: JP Morrissey

This St. Helena residence was an exciting enhancement from a regular backyard into a hidden oasis, based on our clients’ vision. They desired a “secret garden” that was drought resistant and included a large vegetable garden that could produce a variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

We delivered a unique and cohesive backyard that has something new to discover around every corner. The backyard features a “rock river” that solves drainage issues and ensures the garden thrives year-round. Designed with drought-resistant plants native to California, the landscaping incorporates numerous succulents to create a lush, low-water environment. The centerpiece of the backyard is the prized vegetable area, featuring custom vegetable boxes.

We continue to work closely with the client to find new ways to update the space by filling bare spots, adding vibrant color hues, and rotating the crops. By maintaining this collaborative partnership, we have crafted a dynamic and ever-evolving secret garden that continues to delight the clients and their guests.

"Designed with drought-resistant plants native to California, the landscaping incorporates numerous succulents to create a lush, low-water environment. The centerpiece of the backyard is the prized vegetable area, featuring custom vegetable boxes."

Glen Ellen Residence

Aug 26, 2024

Glen Ellen Residence

Build, Maintain | 2021

Vegetable Gardens

Design: Penny Magrane

Construction: Penning Landscapes

Photography: Adam Potts

In 2021, we undertook the construction of this Glen Ellen residence, a sprawling estate designed as a luxurious haven for family and friends. The residence boasts a diverse array of amenities, including a vegetable garden, outdoor spa area, croquet and volleyball courts, expansive lawn, outdoor fireplace, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Each bedroom is complemented by its own private courtyard, offering guests a secluded retreat within the estate.

Privacy was a primary concern for the client, which we addressed by incorporating mature shrubs and 100+ year-old olive trees to establish a stunning living boundary around the property. This natural screening not only enhances the estate’s seclusion but also adds timeless beauty.

"Privacy was a primary concern for the client, which we addressed by incorporating mature shrubs and 100+ year-old olive trees to establish a stunning living boundary around the property."

Vegetable Gardens

Aug 26, 2024

Vegetable Gardens

Vegetable Gardens

Gardener: Gemme Vonknopka

We strive to provide beautiful, yet functional vegetable gardens. We use organic gardening methods, soil amendments and fertilizers, while also focusing on plants that harmonize with local insects and wildlife. Our vegetable gardens often include a healthy balance of vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Including flowers in a garden can help improve soil health and attract pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.

Our vegetable garden services include design, preparation, installation, and maintenance. We can work with you to design a custom garden that complements your unique outdoor space. Additionally, we can teach you how to harvest and identify your fruits and vegetables or we can do that for you.

Our vegetable gardens have won multiple awards, including First Place in 2022 for CLCA’s Sustainable Installation Award and Gardenista’s 2018 Best Edible Garden Award.