Post #783482 by Prikli Pear on Sun, Jan 28, 2018 8:19 PM

Wow. This is going to be something to watch unfold! I do not, however, envy you with the concrete removal that lies at the core of this project. Since you're lowering the room, I'd say to pay very close attention to drainage, but I'm guessing you already know that.

I like what you've already accumulated. Them's the makings of a great tiki bar. I'm not clear on how much yard space you actually have to landscape, but Mediterranean fan palms are compact and cold-tolerant. Pindo palm get a bit bigger, but I think should be able to handle Bay Area climate. Hardy hibiscus should also be worth a look. When you mentioned your idea for a dark anteroom at the entrance, I immediately thought of The Alibi in Portland. That place has a barrel-shaped foyer covered with seagrass matting that is pretty darn cool. I'm not saying this is what you should do (because man, that'd be an insane amount of work) but it's a data point on what's possible:

Keep the posts coming!