La Jolla Residence Built on a steep lot on Mt. Soledad, this home's only flat land available for outdoor living is in the front yard between the house and the street. As part of a house remodel, the owners wanted to create an inviting front entry that was walled and gated so it could double as a private patio and courtyard space for entertaining. Most of the interior rooms in the house open out to this space, so views into the patio and courtyard space were important. A new entry walk, steps, lighted columns, and driveway were designed to complement the front of the home. A new wall and gate create privacy for the interior patio and courtyard space, which is paved with tiles that match the interior flooring. Part of the patio and courtyard space is shaded by an open beam shade structure, with flowering vines trained up the posts. Planting pockets, a raised planter with a flowering tree planted in it, and pots create a lush landscape feeling.