Efficient landscape key to Summerlin

Dick Glanville, one of several landscape architects whose designs have helped shape Summerlin, credits The Howard Hughes Corp. for its forward-thinking approach to efficient landscaping.

"From Summerlin's inception, (the company) made a conscious decision to use drought-tolerant plants and minimize turf wherever possible. Even the Summerlin Parkway, built more than a decade ago, represented a radical departure from traditional landscaping with its miles of gravel mulch, desert-appropriate plants and limited grass areas," said Glanville, principal of Glanville & Associates of San Francisco.

He pointed out that landscaping within The Ridges village reflects a high level of sophistication.

"Over the past decade, the number of drought-tolerant plants suitable for our Mojave desert environment has grown to meet the demand for more interesting and varied desert landscapes," he said. "We are now able to create more appealing landscapes with a greater variety of vegetation that features a broad range of color, texture and size.

"The Ridges is a landscape architect's dream. The slopes, hills and valleys create natural interest. Wherever possible, we have incorporated the existing terrain, such as rock outcroppings and boulders, into our design."

Larry Brocato, executive vice president of Hughes Corp., said the developer is committed to attractive, low-water-use landscapes.

"Just as desert landscaping has evolved from rock and cactus to a rich and colorful palette of vibrant desert plants, Summerlin's commitment to environmentally friendly landscaping has deepened to reflect both local and global concerns regarding water usage," Brocato said.

"The Ridges, our most exclusive, high-end village to date, represents the evolution of Summerlin landscaping. We are particularly proud of The Ridges' beautiful, yet smart and water-efficient landscape."

In a typical year, Brocato said, the community installs about 135,000 trees and plants.

"That's why landscaping is so important," he said. "While it may seem like frosting on the cake -- the decorative part of the community -- landscaping is what gives Summerlin its character, its warmth and creates its appeal."

Glanville is already at work on a new village, Summerlin Centre West, where turf will be used even more minimally.

"Where parks traditionally consisted of 70 to 90 percent turf, Summerlin's newest neighborhood park will be only about 40 percent turf, just enough to provide adequate play areas for sports and passive recreation."

Custom lots in The Ridges are priced from the $500,000s to more than $1 million. Predesigned custom homes start at roughly $2.1 million.

To visit the custom-lot sales center, travel west on Desert Inn Road until it ends in The Ridges and turn left. The building is on the right. Office hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily or by appointment.

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