Nestled in a quiet coastal enclave, the Paseo Tranquilo project presented us with a rare opportunity to merge artistry, conservation, and landscape design into one cohesive statement. The focal point of the property—an adolescent elephant sculpture—belongs to the Great Elephant Migration, a global conservation initiative dedicated to preserving elephant habitats and raising awareness through public art.
Our client’s connection to this cause made the space deeply personal. After attending one of the foundation’s events in Los Angeles and contributing to their conservation efforts, the client was awarded the honor of selecting their own elephant—one that would symbolize both generosity and stewardship. From the very first consultation, we understood that this installation deserved more than simple placement; it needed a setting that would allow the sculpture to breathe, to feel at home.
We approached the landscape as a sanctuary—a place where art, texture, and tone would harmonize with the story behind the piece. The pathway is composed of finely compacted decomposed granite, flanked by bands of Mexican beach rock that flow naturally beneath the fencing and into the broader landscape. The custom fencing features redwood posts and capping, creating both warmth and structure, while the inner panels of redwood planks lend a rich, organic continuity to the scene.
Inside the courtyard, a curated blend of Mexican beach pebbles, California gold stone, Hanley select pebble, and a soft buff-toned pea gravel creates subtle tonal variation—mirroring the elephant’s natural environment in color and mood. The result is a tranquil, balanced space where art and nature meet effortlessly.
Every element of Paseo Tranquilo was designed and installed with precision, restraint, and respect for the story at its heart—proof that meaningful landscapes don’t just frame their surroundings; they amplify the narratives that live within them.
Nestled in a quiet coastal enclave, the Paseo Tranquilo project presented us with a rare opportunity to merge artistry, conservation, and landscape design into one cohesive statement. The focal point of the property—an adolescent elephant sculpture—belongs to the Great Elephant Migration, a global conservation initiative dedicated to preserving elephant habitats and raising awareness through public art.