SWA worked closely with the client and architect in siting the house to maximize views and preserve opportunities in which to develop the landscape. The varied program for the landscape included a small family vineyard, a multi-use field, flower gardens, fountains, terraces, a koi pond, swimming pool and spa, tennis courts, courtyards, a heli-pad and guest parking. The landscape design incorporates these program elements into a formal framework of connected open spaces and paths. The landscape maintains a dialogue with the building plan to foster interesting opportunities in which the interior functions of the building can extend outdoors. The design also condenses the program within an efficient area to minimize impact on the natural landscape. Native grasses, trees, and the natural landforms are used extensively to integrate these new interventions.
Work attributed to SWA/Balsley principal John Wong and his team with SWA Group.
Ray Residence
Perched on a promontory overlooking Gustavia’s harbor entrance, this home site is one of St. Bart’s most dramatic. It enjoys all of the qualities of the Caribbean lifestyle: sunset, ocean and harbor views, breezes, porches, gardens, lawns, courtyards, and an extraordinary swimming pool.
Beginning with an extensive analysis of the sloping rocky site, the...
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...
Tokyo Park Tower
A new luxury residential block in Tokyo’s Jimbocho District called for a series of discreet garden and courtyard spaces that would serve as urban sanctuaries from the busy street life beyond. Water dominates the landscape language in the form of spouts, pools, water slides, and channels. A lush overlay of evergreen shrubs and flowering perennials brings the se...
Vineyard Estate
Nestled against a natural rock outcropping, the estate and vineyard commands a panoramic view over the town of Sonoma with extended views to San Francisco. SWA developed a master plan that recommended relocating the house before its construction. This wine country residence features dominant roof forms and the tight integration of interior and exterior spaces ...