Octopus House

Rain Lily was honored to be a part of Austin Home Magazine's very first "Great Outdoors Tour" featuring the one of a kind work of Heidi Choate. This incredible property was also highlighted during the 2023 Austin Outdoor Living Tour. The Octopus House is half home, half art exhibit with a dash of magic. We were inspired by the request to incorporate local artists' work and materials in this fanciful design. Waterfall limestone slabs placed in the front curb, an entry trellis with glass baubles, magnificent natural crystals throughout the landscape, all lead to a shade garden that blends seamlessly into the natural Bouldin Creek setting.

From a practical standpoint, drainage solutions lead the way in this total landscape renovation.  Hidden french drains, and swales move the storm water downhill in a controlled way while the two large water features play off of those solutions through their placement and flow. Forest floor plantings hug the water fall and highlight this beautiful, useful juxtaposition of elements. 

The recirculating water feature mimics the previously existing erosion throughout the property and repurposed materials from the original site were incorporated into the refreshed design and serve as conversation pieces. The design process for this unique property was a labor of love for the Rain Lily Team, and our efforts did not go unnoticed. An upcoming Central Texas Gardener episode will give viewers a tour of this incredible, one-of-a-kind property and the landscape design that helps make it shine.