I knew you would enjoy seeing the rest of the pictures I took of my friends garden sans grass.  It truly is inspirational and may give you ideas for your own yard.  Enjoy!

Japanese Maple trees are a challenge to grow in Southern California but my friends have done an amazing job.

Who would have guessed that from the destruction one darling puppy managed to wreak on this yard such beauty would emerge.

Clematis vine and vibrant petunias.

The fountain provides a background for cooing doves.

The sun exposure here is East facing.  Ideal morning sun and then shade from the hot afternoon sunset.

The final picture below.  Have fun creating your own garden sanctuary.

An Angel to watch over the garden is essential.