Before the sale to the Claytons, a second story addition was made to 710 Dumas in late 2018, and an existing small porch in the back was enclosed, but the 1921 Craftsman characteristics in the front were preserved.

Once the new owners moved in the spring of 2022, and after making other improvements to the home, they were ready to work on the landscaping.

Their contractor and landscape designers are Munger Place residents who specialize in renovating older homes. Ripley Renovations drew up the site plan for the remodel, and for the front and back yard design, the Claytons consulted with Brothers Landscaping, who advised them with plant selections and also did the installation.

Because the western sun is so strong and, to keep maintenance to a minimum—along with providing food for pollinators—the Claytons chose hardy Texas perennials that would tolerate the afternoon sun. An old Crepe Myrtle and diseased Knockout roses were removed from a front bed. Planted in their place, against a backdrop of Sunshine Ligustrum, is a combination of Mondo Grass, Indian Hawthorn, Butterfly Bush, Antonin Water Spirea, Catmint, and Red Yucca. Two trees were also planted in this space, a River Birch tree, and under its canopy, a Bloodgood Japanese Maple.

On the other side, large flagstones were added to make a pathway from the driveway to the front steps, providing better access to the home and preserving the lawn.

As there was nothing in the front yard to give any protective shade, a suitable tree was a priority. Joshua and Brianna chose a beautiful Texas Red Oak which has thrived in the year since it was planted. To protect their 200-gallon investment, PVC pipes were inserted around the tree so that watering could be closely monitored and the tree’s survival assured.

Besides the Red Oak, the most arresting feature of the yard is the row of ornamental grasses along the parkway and one side of the house. During Covid, the couple took many walks around their previous home on Prescott Avenue and spotted a similar effect near Turtle Creek that they wanted to duplicate. The grasses are now flourishing on Dumas, and Brianna and Joshua hope if they cut them back in the fall, they will survive any winter freeze.

A warm welcome to the Clayton family and our thanks for beautifying the neighborhood!