The two courtyards of this modern Brentwood home are connected by the illusion of water. The entry courtyard doubles as an outdoor living foom with a fireplace, fountain/coffee table, and comfortable furniture to curl up on. The rear courtyard opens onto a meadow where long, low water grasses, tough enough for the family dogs, have replaced the thirsty lawn. The plant palette is enlivened by the use of Mediterranean plants with chartreuse and gray-green foliage, bright succulents, and red stemmed natives that attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Photography: Jack Coyier