RR’s Most-Read for 2013

2013 is very nearly a wrap, which makes this the perfect time for totting up Rancho Reubidoux’s top five most-read posts. The surprise? Three of them are DIY projects. Less surprising, all five have elements in common; including: a heightened visual quality, interesting colors and textures, and, of course, the presence of succulents. When I look back, I can easily remember the satisfaction I felt producing each. But I can feel the terror, too; DIY projects always come with a fear of failure … Happily, these were successful in the end. Shown above, here’s the rundown: 1.) DIY GEOMETRIC PLANTER: This project took angled wire forms and transformed them into succulent planters with the help of aluminum tape. With more than 700 views this was the top post by far. I was delighted to see this one re-posted on an architecture blog. 2.) VINTAGE TV-FRONT GARDEN Another planter project, this one switched channels on a rusted metal television face, turning it into a vertical succulent garden. The lime green echeveria knobs are a crack-up. 3.) GARDEN PARTY : The occasion? Dustin Gimbel hosts a dinner party in his Long Beach garden. Best part(s)? Besides the food, drink, company, garden, light and colors, there are the enormous, fleshy, blush-inducing flowers of Aristolochia gigantea. 4.) LIGHTER, BRIGHTER: A Brady Bunch-era hanging candelabra goes from eyesore to high-style focal point … Paint, ceramic cups and tiny succulents redeem this estate sale embarrassment. 5.) AIR SPACE: Outdoor livin’ is easy; all it takes is spring weather, some bright bougainvillea overhead and a few books and creature comforts. > To view 2013’s top posts, click the following links:

1. Before & After: Contained Angles

2. Before & After: TV Variety Show

3. In the Gimbelgarten

4. Before & After: A Brighter Solution

5. Putting on Airs