Secrets of Sonoma Garden Style

Tuscany Without Travel

When two transplants from New York planned their dream house on the western slope of the Sonoma Valley, they wanted it to resemble a walled village in Italy, with a front courtyard, patios for lounging and dining, and room for parties. Susan Skinner and Bob Heisterberg looked forward to frequent alfresco gatherings in this mild Mediterranean climate; now they can often be found laughing and chatting with friends beneath their vine-covered arbor. The garden plantings are simple, with lots of lavender. A fountain accented with potted phormiums burbles in the entry courtyard.