Based on the clients' nostalgia for the lush greenery of their upbringing on the East Coast and in the Midwest, we curated a plant selection reminiscent of their childhood landscapes while ensuring suitability for California's climate. The garden design, blending traditional proportions with contemporary elements, seamlessly extends the home's great room outdoors, fostering effortless indoor-outdoor living. To accommodate informal meetings and Zoom calls, we strategically placed a floating deck adjacent to the home office. Throughout the space, we opted for basalt for paving, steps and site features, creatively varied in finish to provide textural interest while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The result is a tranquil haven that not only serves as a private retreat for the homeowners but also serves as a poignant connection to their past while embracing the future.