Throughout its history, the Getty House garden has undergone many subtle changes while preserving the integrity and spirit of its original vision. These changes reflect the needs of the garden to accommodate its various uses as a site for large and small events.

Getty House Garden photographed by Mary E. Nichols

The garden has always been a distinguishing feature of Getty House and has been enjoyed by residents and visitors past and present.

The garden was designed by noted landscape architect A.E. Hanson. In the publication An Arcadian Landscape: The California Gardens of A.E. Hanson, the garden is referred to as the Lockhart Garden. It was lauded for its beautiful landscaping and manicured flora in the ever-growing urban metropolis. As drawings in the Hanson book confirm, there were plans to create a miniature house at the far end of the backyard as a place to play for the Lockhart children. Today, a cozy brick alcove and a wisteria-covered arbor grace the back of the garden near the sunken “blue garden”, fountain and tennis court.

Getty House Arbor

In addition to being maintained by the City’s Department of Recreation and Parks, the garden has garnered the interest of local garden advocates. 

In spring 2007, famed decor planner, Carolyne Rochm unveiled her new book and demonstrated floral arrangements, using freshly cut flowers from the Getty House garden. Proceeds from the event directly supported a project for the garden’s rose beds.

In 2010, the Hancock Park Garden Club completely renovated the sunken “blue garden” by replacing old plant material with drought-tolerant varieties, which inspire visitors seeking outdoor beauty in a region that faces continual water shortages.

The Blue Garden photographed by Mary E. Nichols

The A.E. Hanson Garden photographed by Mary E. Nichols