Basement Tuscan Garden

To soften the harsh lines of this boxy space and create a warm atmosphere, Matt incorporates rustic, natural materials with terra-cotta paving, wood patio furniture and a variety of foliage plants. The paving set at a 45-degree angle draws the eye across the space, making it appear larger than it actually is.

Using natural materials and simple, subtle plantings, Matt has transformed the dark gray basement into a relaxing retreat. A wood table with chairs provides a nice respite after a long day at the office. Low-maintenance plantings offer a variety of foliage textures and colors that surround the space. Matt carefully selected a soothing plant palette where the feathery foliage of ferns and a Japanese maple contrast nicely with the bold leaves of Ligularia and hosta. He balanced these textures with frothy Galium, trailing vinca and swordlike Iris siberica. Evergreen ivy cascades down from the overhead ledge, while the glossy variegated leaves of Euonymus japonicus 'Golden Maiden' reflects more light into the space. A fresh coat of off-white paint adds more light to the space and provides a brilliant backdrop to the array of vegetation.