Pads of a bunny ears prickly pear cactus (Opuntia microdasys) spill over a raised planter accented with paint and decorative tiles.

REGIONAL STYLE
Here are some ways to incorporate Southwest ambience in the garden:

The Old West—Existing structures
can evoke the atmosphere of an earlier era. Denice Blake and John Blackwell resisted suggestions to tear down a wooden shed. Instead, they made repairs, applied paint, and use it as a carport.

Rust—“Rust adds an aged quality that blends well in Southwestern landscapes,” notes Blake. Examples in the couple’s yard include metalwork hung as art on painted walls, and an antique wheelbarrow used as a focal point.

Color—“Some people mistakenly think the desert is all beige, but it is filled with color,” observes Blake. Don’t be afraid to experiment with strong shades on an accent wall. You can always repaint. If an entire wall seems too bold, start small by bringing in bright containers.

Hacienda living—The central courtyards of Spanish haciendas may not be practical on today’s small lots, but the couple incorporated a similar outdoor space. Their home is U-shaped, opening to a patio with a gurgling fountain. The ambience is that of a private courtyard.