This landscaping, high in the hills above Santa Barbara (with breathtaking city and ocean views) was designed by Alida Aldrich to compliment a newly constructed home of Contemporary/Balinese architecture. The client asked for a tropical garden. Given high summer temperatures, and local sundowner winds, this planting palette was quiet a challenge, but turned out to be a smashing success. Alida constructed a ten-foot high sandstone retaining wall (with a slight terracing effect for architectural interest) along the entire length of driveway. As a welcoming amusement, the motor court now has a custom laid, stone labyrinth. From the flagstone patio off the house to lounging in the Bali (adjacent to the magnificent infinity pool) the rear garden offers hours of entertaining possibilities. (see Before & After ).