There’s something truly rewarding about designing a space that bridges working farmland with moments of calm and reflection. This client, who runs a beautiful farm, recently completed a large barn that now houses a high-end yoga studio and spa—right beside her cow paddocks. Our goal was to honor the working land while creating a serene, elevated garden path leading to rest and retreat.

The barn itself sits on the right side of a wide-open area. To frame it, we planted Sky Pencil Hollies and Arborvitae, adding a graceful Deodar Cedar for vertical interest and softness. In front of this evergreen structure, we brought in bold pops of color with Fuchsia Chrysanthemums, echoing the barn’s vibrant energy.

At the entrance, two large, galvanized aluminum tubs create an inviting entrance. These are planted with fragrant Lavender, cheerful Black-Eyed Susans, and classic Sage—a mix that feels both cultivated and a little wild.

A winding path leads from the barn to the greenhouse, with more Fuchsia Chrysanthemums flanking each side for rhythm and seasonal color. On the opposite side of the path, adjacent to the cow paddocks, planting directly against the fence wasn’t an option (the cows are enthusiastic snackers). So we built raised white planter boxes for a crisp, clean look. Each is filled with Sky Pencil Holly, with a lattice backing to support blooming Clematis. In front, we planted fiery Red Coneflowers and shimmering Russian Sage to bring color and movement.

The path ends beneath a graceful Honey Locust Tree, which casts dappled shade over the greenhouse. Just beyond is a small seating area with ceramic pots overflowing with Coneflowers, Sage, and Sky Pencil Holly. From here, you can look out across an open meadow and take in breathtaking views of the mountains—a space designed for pause, reflection, and a deep exhale.

Plantings Include: Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’), Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis), Deodar Cedar (Cedrus deodara), Fuchsia Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium), Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Sage (Salvia officinalis), Clematis (Clematis x), Red Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), and Honeylocust Tree (Gleditsia triacanthos).