A lot can be done in a small or irregular space in a Downtown condominium. Keeping the landscape simple gives the illusion of more open space.

As more residents relocate to Downtown condominiums, they are challenged by how to landscape a postage-sized back or side yard or a high-rise balcony overlooking the city. Landscape architects they may consult face the same dilemma: What can be done in a small or irregular space?

David McCullough, owner of McCullough Landscape Architecture Inc., with an office Downtown since 2001, isn’t overwhelmed with new Downtown condo clients. But those he has stimulate his creativity.

One goal of condo landscaping, McCullough says, is to create privacy, which can be done with various plant material. Tall, vertical plants that naturally grow higher than allowed fences, enhance privacy in outdoor living spaces and don’t intrude into the space. Even on balconies, tall, slim plants and slim pots work best.

“You don’t want to block the view,” McCullough says, “but enhance it with lacy and open plants.” Also desirable is to keep the landscaping simple and sophisticated and uncluttered, giving the illusion of more open space.

Some different considerations come with rooftop landscaping, says McCullough. Lightweight plants that don’t require deep soil and heavy watering are best on roofs. He also likes assorted palm trees on roofs because they do well in direct sun, and they provide shade for other kinds of plants.

One technique for balconies, says McCullough, is to frame the window, and thereby frame the view from that spot.

McCullough tackled a problem yard at a Downtown condo purchased by friends. It was featured in Better Homes & Gardens spring 2005.

“It had a small yard and a tall wood retaining wall,” McCullough says. His friends were frustrated by it. He left the wood retaining wall in place and planted vines on its surface, added a recirculating water feature and finished the space by paving it with Irish linen, a soft off-white stone paving.

McCullough’s interest in architecture began when he was in high school. While earning his degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, his career goals grew out of an interest in architecture and a love of the outdoors.

In an urban environment, it’s important to have “nature in your life,” he says. “You can do that in a patio or small yard.”

— Sandy Pasqua