Big Country Cottage

Big Country Cottage by Alford's English Gardens Inc. Located in a lively and active neighborhood, the 'Big Country Cottage' from Alford's English Gardens Inc. blends rustic aesthetics and modern functionality for clients throughout Cerritos, Huntington Beach, Lakewood, and more. Both the client and designer envisioned recreating a peaceful retreat expressively conveying the feel of the countryside while being seamlessly part of the coast of California. The process began with an analysis of the site, which included physically struggling areas of unevenness and limited light to some parts. Through design and grading, our capable crew was able to accommodate optimal plant growth while rendering a pleasant aesthetics despite the areas of strife. We took advantage of California's great growing potential by selecting a variety of native plants, drought-tolerant grases, and colorful flowering shrubs, which together developed a low-maintenance lush garden. What made this impactful was the beautiful pathway constructed of locally-sourced stone suited to the rustic look of the cottage. This pathway winds through a series of magical garden rooms that are designed to appeal to the senses and change daily throughout the year with combinations of plants and textures. A custom-made wooden trellis with climbing roses that adds an element of predictability, and vertical interest allowing for the choice of having gatherings outdoors with friends and family. An additional layer of sustainable measures included installing a rainwater catchment system, which allows nature to be responsible for nurturing the garden and socially allows for responsibilities of environmental stewardship to be fulfilled daily. The final touch included installing lights that gently illuminated the gardens for picturesque evening time with the intentions of enhancing the outdoor space when it was dark, while the air continued to be warm enough to enjoy it. All in all, the process created a landscape that will not only help curb appeal for the property but also allow the family to have a peaceful retreat. The client was pleased with the multifaceted results, combining beauty and usability. Alford's English Gardens Inc. likes to express itself through craftsmanship and pride in its work. The "Big Country Cottage' is an example of deeply rooted concern for fusing artistry and functionality into outdoor harbors throughout the construction industry.