Transforming a small corner lot garden into a “jewel box” retreat

Landscape architect Lisa Gimmy designed a front courtyard to embrace the neighborhood.

A crisp board-formed concrete water fountain is more than just a water feature. It also serves as a place to sit and relax. “It’s a minimal expression of an ancient idea,” says Gimmy.

Olive and Ella Collins ride their bikes around the water fountain in their front yard.

Homeowner David Collins found the rusty steel planters in the trash at Rolling Greens Nursery in Culver City.

The Spanish bungalow’s green tile roof complements the gray and green color palette.

Gimmy planted espalier magnolias outside the kitchen windows to bring the garden indoors.

Plants are simple, subtle, textural.

It’s important to keep your sense of humor when remodeling.

Ella, left, and Olive Collins, right, play in their backyard.

A natural oasis awaits visitors in the backyard.

Mature olive trees frame the backyard.

The backyard features an outdoor dining area, barbecue and cooking area. Jasmine grows on the retractable awning over the dining table, offering a sweet scented escape from the heat.

Plants line the side of David Collins’ Spanish bungalow.

Creeping fig adds texture to an exterior wall.

David Collins (right), the creator and producer of “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” partner Joseph Rivas and daughters Olive, right, and Ella, take to the sidewalk outside their Atwater Village home.