Applegrove
Applegrove was a transformative entryway project set at the end of a quiet HOA cul-de-sac, where the home serves as a visual gateway into the community. The client approached us with a desire to elevate the arrival experience and replace an aging, dilapidated asphalt driveway and surrounding spaces with something that reflected the beauty of the property and its architecture. What began as a functional upgrade quickly evolved into a complete re-imagining of the front entry, blending hardscape, landscape, and lighting into a cohesive, welcoming environment.
Working closely with the homeowner and HOA considerations, we developed a comprehensive design that addressed the driveway, front entry stoop, walkways, trash enclosure, fencing, and planting. The home’s smooth white stucco exterior, terracotta roof, dark window and door accents, and iron detailing set the tone for a refined Mediterranean aesthetic that guided the entire project.
One of the property’s most striking features was its mature landscape. Towering Caribbean date palms flank the driveway, with additional established palms and trees throughout the site, creating a lush, almost jungle-like sense of arrival. Rather than compete with this scale, the design was intentionally restrained—allowing the hardscape and lighting to enhance what was already there.
The existing asphalt and gravel entry was replaced with a warm, pecan-toned paver driveway featuring clean edges, a subtle curve, and an impeccably detailed border. This gentle curvature softens the transition from the HOA roadway into the private drive and immediately elevates the overall feel of the space. Precision cuts and tight joints throughout the pavers highlight the craftsmanship and attention to detail that define the project.
Beyond aesthetics, functionality played a critical role. New drainage was installed to capture roof runoff and direct it beneath the driveway into a dry creek basin on the opposite side of the entry, ensuring proper water flow even during heavy rains. Updated fencing, new planting, irrigation, fresh bark mulch, and custom gate details further unified the space and created a polished, intentional look throughout.
At night, the project truly comes to life. Landscape lighting casts a soft glow across the driveway while uplighting brings dramatic emphasis to the palm trunks overhead. The result is a warm, layered evening ambiance that feels elegant, welcoming, and distinctly elevated—transforming the experience of arriving home after dark.
This phase focused on redefining the front of the property, with additional backyard enhancements already planned for a future phase.
A complete transformation of an HOA entry and private driveway, this project replaced worn asphalt with warm paver hardscape, layered planting, and dramatic lighting that brings the space to life day and night.
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