Perched atop a two-story structure, towered over by a connecting residential high rise and surrounded by studio apartments, this unique urban pine forest stands in a bed of low-hanging fog and reaches to the clear skies above. One hundred and one white pines, planted in a loose formation of elliptical mounds, seem cast adrift in a sea of washed river stone. Dwarf mugo pines cover each mound like a carpet with raised Corten steel edges mediating the pine and gravel dialogue. This minimalist mono-culture of a landscape is a poetic distillation—both sample and symbol—of the peace and repose to be found in the great pine forests of the world. Whether standing in the middle of it, or simply viewing it from afar, residents can enjoy the year-round display of lush greenery; wooded decks outside the residents’ lounge at the forest floor offer a closer view of the varied topography, as well as fresh mugo pine scent from the forest’s understory.
40 Mercer
The elements of landscape that Thomas Balsley Associates has designed for 40 Mercer is integral to the dynamic and successful environment created for the modern Manhattan lifestyle, in the trendy SoHo district. A private park at the ground floor connects the bustling activity of Broadway with the sophisticated serenity of the galleries and shops that line Merc...
Vi Living (Formerly Classic Residence By Hyatt)
The Classic Residence by Hyatt in Palo Alto provides seniors with independent and assisted living facilities. The roughly 19-acre site is adjacent to the San Francisquito Creek, a shopping mall, Ronald McDonald House, and Stanford West Apartments. Hyatt has been working closely with us as well as the City of Palo Alto and Stanford University to develop the si...
Alexander Residence
The elements of the site program for this residence are relatively simple: a large pool and deck area without fencing; a large lawn area for children’s play; perennial gardens; concealed parking; and native plantings included in a playful manner. Since the dune height precluded any ocean views from the natural elevation of the site or the ground floor spaces, ...
Martha Stewart Summer Residence
When first approached, the property looked as if very little had changed in eighty years. Everything about it reflected an interest in summer breezes and beaches rather than labor-intensive gardening. In dramatic contrast, the new owner’s primary interest was in entertaining within a landscaped environment.
The final plan reconciles competing space requ...