Smithville Ranch

Set against open pasture and a canopy of mature live oaks, this Smithville ranch property was landscaped to feel like a natural extension of the land around it. A sweeping curved limestone retaining wall defines the front bed, which wraps the full width of the home and spills over with purple salvia, creeping juniper, agave, and sword ferns growing against a backdrop of cream stone and timber. The crushed white granite driveway and parking area carry the natural material palette from the road to the front door, keeping the approach grounded and consistent. Along the entry drive, dark steel edged beds run the full length of the approach planted in drifts of Mexican feather grass, red hesperaloe, blooming yucca, and prickly pear. An arched iron entry gate marks the arrival with a sense of place, framing the live oaks and the drive behind it. The planting plan is built entirely around native and adapted Texas species, so the landscape will continue filling in and improving with each passing season.