Client Objectives for Landscape:

The client had multiple objectives for the landscape. The main objective was to create a safer transition between the driveway and the side door. Additional objectives included accessing the front porch with a formal walkway, upgrading the non-functioning old concrete patio and stairs, and creating a small separate sitting area to enjoy her beautiful garden that provided more privacy.

Main Features:

Between the driveway and the side door is an irregular flagstone landing with two levels. There is a low brick retaining wall with a flagstone cap that borders one side of the landing. The old concrete patio and stairs were replaced with an irregular flagstone patio and brick stairs with flagstone step treads. On the opposite side of the house is an informal patio that combines irregular flagstone and brick elements. The walkway to the front door is irregular flagstone with a brick border. There are also two steps made of brick and capped with flagstone step treads.

Major Challenges:

The biggest challenge was being consistent with the material choices to create a unified design plan, particularly when it came to the backdrop of the house. Built in the 1950s, the house still had the original brick exterior, but that style of brick was no longer available. A close match was found, and that brick was utilized in all of the hardscaping elements to blend successfully with the house.

Special or Unusual Features:

The small patio on the side of the house was inspired by the client’s interest in English gardens. Patterns of brick sections break up the irregular flagstone to give the patio an aged look. It is as if the patio was built decades ago, and time has uncovered the remnants of past work. The pea gravel between the joints adds another layer of contrast between the flagstone and brick.