Kyoto-Inspired Place of Beauty 

Taking inspiration from little-known Kyoto estates built in the early 20th century, this tranquil garden invites visitors to experience a shifting of perspective as they step through the entrance gate and retreat from the outside world. A flowing series of changing vistas is revealed at every bend, from the Zen temple-inspired cobble entry path, through a shaded, mossy cedar grove, to a quiet bench with a view of the Mountain, before continuing into a full-sun garden alongside a cascading stream. 

The garden is a collaboration between Leslee Avery-Beausoleil, the homeowner, and Mark Bourne, a garden designer, and retains parts of an older Japanese garden built by Dick Yamasaki. The traditional Japanese entry gate was designed and built by master carpenter Dale Brotherton. 

Leslee’s plant collection is a tapestry of carefully chosen foliage combinations, including more than 330 species and cultivars of plants. Among them are unusual Asian shrubs and perennials, along with uncommon selections of many familiar garden favorites. Black mondo grass, Japanese sweet flag and forest grass provide continuity throughout. Mark brings a Japanese designer’s sensibility to the garden, working with the earth to create the hills, banks and hollows that hold the plants, and paying close attention to grouping and massing plants to create a garden that feels deceptively expansive. Focal points, both natural and created, compel guests to meander and explore.