I carry my sketchbook with me everywhere. It helps me quickly jot down visual ideas about design and I find that I learn and remember better from something I've drawn myself instead of from a photo. Lately, I have been sketching small courtyards around Houston and taking notes on how the spaces are organized and how the container plants or small in-ground plants grow within the space. These quick drawings help me learn what works and what could be done better in small urban gardens at homes, businesses, and restaurants. The best courtyard gardens feel intimate, like secret gardens, and also inviting. The trick is to use the vertical surfaces in a smart and efficient way so that the space is private and quiet. Here is a selection of recent courtyard drawings from my sketchbook:

Seating with Potted Ginger: A tucked away seating area is created with several large containers. Large, multistem gingers and other tropicals give a nice lushness.

Container Plants in Full Sun: A side porch with a great variety of container plants. The mix of plant textures make the space visually interesting.

Rice U Courtyard: Graced by an expansive live oak tree, clean lines in the planting beds and modern geometry in the steps. The arches make a lovely threshold between courtyard and portico beyond.

Mediterranean Style Pool: A small backyard pool is enclosed by fences, walls, and concrete. The shape of the pool with scalloped corners and detailed tiles makes it feel Mediterranean.