Peter A. Kirsch-Korff

Wood Arbors, Decks, Fences & Gates - Builder

Los Angeles Pasadena Hollywood La Canada Malibu

Modern Redwood Horizontal Fence - West Los Angeles, CA

Modern & Asian/Zen Styles

My modern fences, gates, decks, and arbors are usually sleek with clean lines and dramatic design details. In contrast, my asian inspired garden architecture is usually based on traditional designs which highlight the beauty of nature.

Both Modern and Asian styles emphasize design elegance and simplicity. And I often use the natural beauty of the materials and the idea of "less is more" as major design concepts.

I find that the Modern and Asian/Zen styles are great for Art Moderne, Postmodern, Bauhaus, Contemporary and International homes, as well as Japanese Zen gardens and Asian inspired houses.

For examples of my work in these styles, click on an image above. Below is more information about these styles, along with links to related web sites.

Design Elements For Arbors, Fences, Decks & Gates

Wood: In modern and Asian designs, almost any wood can be used. The natural tones and grain of the wood can be highlighted or painted to provide a bold contrast with the surrounding environment. Bamboo is also a traditional fence material used in Asian inspired gardens.

Construction Techniques: I recommend using simple, sleek construction techniques so that the joinery is either entirely hidden or an integral part of the design aesthetics.

Metalwork: For modern designs, I like to use modern brushed metallics which are sleek and understated.

Lighting: For night time use, I recommend using sleek modern fixtures for dramatic up lighting or traditional Asian lanterns adapted for outdoor use for a subtle effect.

Additional Resources and Related Links

Good resources for inspiration, ideas and design plans include (links may earn a commission):

Houses: Modern Natural/Natural Modern

This book features 29 Modern style houses across the world and has lots of photos to inspire you to excel at blending the rustic and machine made into the natural environment.

Create Your Own Japanese Garden: A Practical Guide by Motomi Oguchi and Joseph Cali

A good resource to give you ideas and advice on building your own Japanese garden by a garden designer who highlights his own work.

Serene Gardens: Creating Japanese Design and Detail in the Western Garden by Yoko Kawaguchi

This inspiring book deals with understanding and creating a Japanese garden that is peaceful and serene .

The Art of Japanese Gardens: Designing & Making Your Own Peaceful Space by Herb Gustafson

This book provides over 250+ photos of Japanese gardens, many including traditional fencing, bridges and more. LA Public Library book

A Japanese Touch for Your Garden by Kiyoshi Seike

This book provides lots of inspiration and ideas for creating a Japanese garden, along with a few photos of traditional fencing and screening.
LA Public Library book

A Japanese Touch for Your Home by Koji Yagi

This book covers the basic elements of Japanese interior design and provides photos and ideas for creating Asian inspired entryways, verandas, and lighting. LA Public Library book

Creating Your Own Japanese Garden by Takashi Sawano

This book offers a wealth of information on how to create an authentic Japanese garden. LA Public Library book

Japanese Gardens in a Weekend: Projects for One, Two or Three Weekends by Robert Ketchell

This book details 20 projects you can use to quickly create a Japanese garden you will love and enjoy.

All About Creating Japanese Gardens by Ortho

This book gives insight and ideas about how to create tranquil spaces and sanctuaries in the Japanese style.

Here are a few online resources to check out too ...

Japanese Garden Web site at Bowdoin College
This web site is dedicated to exploring the gardens of Japan with an emphasis on the historic gardens of Kyoto. It includes photographic tours of 23 gardens, commentary on design elements, and a list of related links.
Woods Shop of San Diego CA
This master wood craftsman specializes in designingdecks and Japanese garden architecture. They can design a custom Japanese structure for your Zen Garden over the Internet.

Permission is granted to anyone who wants to
use my work for inspiration outside of the LA area.


Arbors	Decks	Fences	Gates	Treehouses	Built-ins & More

Serving the Los Angeles area communities of Altadena, Arcadia, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Bradbury, Brentwood, Chino Hills, Claremont, Diamond Bar, Encino, Glendale, Glendora, Granada Hills, Hancock Park, Hidden Hills, Hollywood, La Canada Flintridge, La Crescenta-Montrose, Los Angeles, Los Feliz, Malibu, Monrovia, Northridge, North Hills, Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, Pomona, Porter Ranch, Rancho Cucumonga, San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, Silver Lake, South Pasadena, Studio City, Van Nuys, West Hills, West Hollywood, Westwood, and West Los Angeles.

California Licensed Contractor #701028