Main Features:

A large 120 SF pond, with an attached secondary 50 SF pond, was designed that is viewable from various locations on the property, including the house, deck, and old patio. The pond features 4 beautiful waterfalls to add sound and motion. Lighting extends the viewing of and interaction with the pond into the evening.

Two planting beds, complete with lighting, are in the corners of the back yard. The plantings were selected to provide privacy and included flowering trees and shrubs for seasonal color and interest.

The new destination patio located in one of these corner gardens is a private retreat. The perfect place to escape to admire colorful plants and to relax in nature.

The informal broken flagstone patio by the pond provides a subtle entrance to the pond. Trees and ornamental plants were added to provide shade for the pond and to soften and accent their large water feature.

Major Challenges:

The very large pond was a challenge. It consists of two attached sections: one approximately 120 SF and the other approximately 50 SF.

The biofilter is in the back of the pond. This location required an accurate determination for the height of the waterfalls to ensure it would be able to be viewed and enjoyed from the house, deck and the pre-existing patio.

Special or Unusual Features:

The beautiful large pond is a focal point of stunning beauty. It serves as a natural swimming pool with seating shelves for the clients to sit and relax as they listen to the soothing sounds of the waterfalls and is a favorite pond feature.

Client Objectives for Landscape:

They wanted a patio, fireplace, kitchen, lighting, seat wall, and plantings in a beautiful and elegant space using all ‘natural’ material.

Main Features:

The customized year-round living space features a flagstone patio, natural stone veneer seat wall, veneer stone kitchen and fully functional wood-burning fireplace. It is a comfortable gathering space that provides the opportunity to socialize and relax while eating tasty grilled food in the fresh air surrounded by family and friends. Lighting throughout the landscape accents the focal points and illuminates the area, increasing safety and security.

Carefully selected deciduous and evergreen trees, shrubs, and perennials were planted to complement the hardscaping and to provide areas of interest and color seasonally.

Major Challenges:

A work-related party was being hosted at the client’s home in late April. The project was started in early April with a deadline of less than one month.

Approximately 20 trees, located in the middle of the yard, had to be removed as mandated by Fairfax County. We transplanted some of the trees on site in the back, and transplanted others to the front yard. Many other trees were added, native and non-native, so that the tree coverage is the same, if not more, than before the original tree removal.

Our team of highly skilled hardscape and landscape installers completed the project in 3-3 1/2 weeks and it went smoothly. The clients were pleased to host the party as planned in their new outdoor space.

Special or Unusual Features:

The project is beautiful, elegant, harmonious, and functional without being too ‘busy.’