Our Story
A love affair 46 years
in the making
Transforming a barren, treeless desert landscape into a flourishing food forest and residence has been a lifelong passion and 46 years in the making. We began with an old adobe barn and turned it into a gracious home. Acquiring the land on either side of the corral, we added the studio and main house. We nurtured the land, creating an abundant organic garden. Now, the Garden Compound is experiencing its latest evolution, blossoming into a thriving food forest.
Creating Eden
We nurtured the land, healing and transforming it slowly over time from barren dirt and dust into a flourishing land scape. What began as a modest plot has, through years of dedication and care, grown into an abundant oasis of life and vitality. Our efforts have not only revitalized the land but have also created a sanctuary of abundance for our friends, family and community.
“Mela is a a visionary with spaces and alchemist with plants. It’s a gift to be able to spend time in this environment she and Doug have created over the last four decades.” - Daniel
Creating Space
Seeing the crumbling adobe barn, it was love at first sight. We began with the barn, which was missing a roof and foundation, and set about transforming. The process of restoring and building the adobes was challenging and rewarding. There’s a collection of beautifully appointed homes tucked in the trees. Each nest is thoughtfully designed to welcome our family and friends. These spaces are more than just places to stay; they are sanctuaries.