Peter and Julie Hevezi of Encinitas recently earned top honors in a sustainability competition hosted by the Olivenhain Municipal Water District. The couple transformed their residential backyard by replacing a swimming pool with a drought-tolerant landscape designed for the Southern California climate.
A 20% drop in water usage after pool reomval
The decision to eliminate a kidney-shaped pool led to an immediate and measurable environmental impact. According to the report, the removal of the pool resulted in a twenty percent drop in water usage for the Hevezi household.. This reduction highlights the significant water footprint of traditional luxury backyard features in arid regions like San Diego.
Beyond the pool, Peter and Julie Hevezi addressed the steep slopes of their quarter-acre property, which were previously dominated by ice plant. By replacing these with low-water and native species, the couple created a sustainable ecosysteem that requires far less irrigation than their previous setup.. The current garden now features succulents and firecracker plants that are specifically chosen to thrive under the intense, all-day sun of the Encinitas coast.
How Karme' Landscape and Design tackled the southern exposure
While Peter Hevezi brought prior gardening experience from his time in London, the specific challenges of the Southern California environment required professional intervention. The couple sought expert guidance after visiting a home and garden show at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, where they connected with the team at Karme' Landscape and Design.
As reported, Karme' Landscape and Design managed the technical aspects of the pool removal and the selection of flora suited for the yard's southern exposure.. Work on the project began in April 2020, transforming the flat areas of the lot into distinct zones of native greenery. This professional partnership ensured that the transition from a water-heavy pool to a water-wise oasis was ecologically sound and aesthetically viable.
From San Francisco to Encinitas: Adapting to Southern California's drought
The Hevezis' journey reflects a broader regional trend of "pool-to-garden" conversions as residents adapt to chronic drought conditions. having relocated from San Francisco in 2003, the couple spent years adjusting their landscaping habits to match the drier climate of the south. Peter Hevezi's early efforts in 2005, which included planting pomegranates, figs, olives, and guavas, laid the groundwork for a more sustainable approach to home ownership.
This shift is part of a larger movement across California where homeowners are abandoning the "green lawn and blue pool" aesthetic in favor of xeric landscaping . By prioritizing native plants over thirsty ornamentals, residents in the Olivenhain Municipal Water District area are reducing the strain on local aquifers and decreasing their monthly utility costs.
What $250 in prize money bought for the Hevezi garden
The recognition from the Olivenhain Municipal Water District's WaterSmart Landscape Contest came with a modest financial reward. The Hevezis used their $250 prize check to further enhance their sustainability efforts by purchasing two additional rainwater collection barrels and installing a comprehensive water collection system.
However, several details regarding the financial scale of the project remain unknown. The source does not disclose the total cost of the pool removal and professional landscaping provided by Karme' Landscape and Design, nor does it mention if the couple utilized any municipal rebates for pool removal—a common incentive in many California water districts. It remains unclear if the 20% water savings offset the initial capital investment of the renovation within a specific timeframe .
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