Project of the Month: Spring Cleaning

27 Feb, 2007 By: Landscape Management Staff LDB Solutions

Designed by: Garden Gate Landscaping Inc., www.gardengate.net.

Challenges:

Heavy water runoff from adjacent properties was a chronic problem for the site.
A large watershed area had to be integrated into the landscape without dominating the garden.
Site access was a challenge, culminating in the removal of a large maple from the north side of the house to accommodate demolition and grading equipment in the back yard.


The plan shows the front entry garden.


This "before" shot shows the overgrown plantings and deteriorated steps and walk.


New steps lead guests effortlessly up the slope of the house. The post light serves as a welcoming beacon.


The original front stoop was awkward and cramped.


Portions of the foundation were integrated into the new stoop design, which features wider steps and a generous landing. The railing design adds interest, while maintaining a view to the door.

The front steps join the extended stone retaining wall next to the driveway. A lower wall was added opposite the drive, framing the Magnolia and unifying the front entrance.
The water runoff issue was resolved in multiple ways. Here, the stone-lined swale exits water through the retaining wall, where it is directed over the flagstone walk to the front yard.


The seldom-used pool dominates the back yard, and was a nuisance and eyesore from the sunroom.


Another view of the pool. With their children grown and the pool lying dormant, the owners longed for a garden again.

The pool was removed and replaced with a level lawn, garden and terrace.

This project was a Merit winner in PLANET's 36th annual Environmental Improvement Awards program. For more information on the program, visit www.landcarenetwork.org.

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