May Project of the Month

The owners of this 11-year-old property wanted a new driveway to the front of the residence from the main road in front of their corner lot home. The area between the road and the home was quite dense, with shrubs, oaks and pines. Tate engaged a surveyor to map the property with large existing trees, topographic information and setbacks, and utilities, including sanitation lines.

Tate was asked to design a new driveway that would follow a gently flowing curve to the front of the home. She drew a conceptual design showing how a drive could be brought in and create a pass court in front to the residence, which would allow two cars to park side by side. The new gravel drive features a cobble stone curb and cobble stone aprons.

There was enough change of elevation to create a sunken garden, designed to give privacy from the street and seasonal color. Many of the existing plants materials were relocated, including one of the large Japanese maples. But because the original front steps and stoop were deemed to be awkward and unsafe, Tate designed a new front porch, steps, and a stone wall with planters to create a small private garden in front of the dining room window.

As work began on the front of the property, the owners' attention moved to the back of the property: An old deck would have to be replaced. Tate designed a new set of steps and new railing system that incorporated both new stainless steel cables and wood. This was for economical reasons, but the combination is very pleasing to the eye.

The landscape design for the steep grade down to the dock, was developed with input from the owner’s college-aged son. There needed to be enough level grass area to kick and throw a ball around. A wide grass path system traverses the steep grade and allows for large planting beds, which are viewed from the new deck as well as the ground level terrace and apartment.