Swerling
Erika and Jack Swerling
14 Glenlake Road
This is one of Spring Valley’s most unique homes and the landscaping showcases the architecture perfectly. The Swerlings have had three homes in Spring Valley…they are obviously leaving pockets of beauty behind each time if this house is an example of their talents!
You will have difficulty believing that this garden is only three years old. The roses along the street are an instant splash of color in creative beds that hint of more good things to come. The bridge over the pond leading to the front door becomes part of an expansive porch which wraps the entire house. The palms are vertical elements that draw your eye to the interesting roofline that gives the house its intriguing, almost Asian character. Walk around to the back, enjoying the garden as you go. If you can pull your eyes from the pool, the Tuscan planters and surrounding hardscape, notice the hedge of Knockout roses….a rather unusual use of this popular plant. You may be on eye level with a golfer on the course beyond but you are still in a most private and protected backyard. Erika loves sunflowers but they have proven to be powerful opponents….note the artful metal substitutes she has incorporated into her planting bed. They add a perfect touch of whimsy and humor. Given her obvious success with the rest of the vegetation, those faux sunflowers will soon have live counterparts.
A garden area that you won’t see is part of the atrium area in the foyer of the house. An enclosed pocket of trees provides a home to a very entertaining family of cardinals. Erika keeps a close eye on them and they reward her with flashes of red accents to the decor.
The Swerlings wanted a resort feel in this beautiful garden and they have achieved a perfect blend of elegance and friendliness. You will easily be transported to any sunny locale of your choice. It’s hard to visualize a more perfect synergy of house and landscape.
