Living Habitats
Office Front Yard

This commercial front yard transformation in Chicago’s Northwest Highway manufacturing corridor offers a study in how layered native plantings can add infinite interest and ecological value to even our smallest urban open spaces.

The existing 700 square foot lawn and traditional foundation planting was replaced with a carefully selected palette of plants historically native to northeastern Illinois’ dry-mesic prairies. Just as would be considerations in a strictly ornamental garden, plant height throughout the growing season, leaf texture, color of flowers, foliage, and bloom time were all strategically considered to ensure that the garden offers year-round interest and a pleasing composition. A mow strip of conventional turf at the front edge cues passersby to the intentionality of the design utilizing native species.

Native pollinators and birds are always present in the garden, which requires only biannual cleanup and occasional weeding and mulch top-dressing to thrive. Its colorful and friendly demeanor invites neighbors along the primarily manufacturing and commercial street to linger and observe the special beauty as they walk by.

Location:
Edison Park, Illinois

Date:
2021