About

The clients wanted a multi-functional outdoor space to match their newly built, modern residence. The restricted space behind the residence was a challenge. We were able to break up the monotony of the long narrow space and large retaining wall by dividing it into multiple outdoor rooms. The stepper path and lawn area open up into a larger flagstone dining patio with a magnificent custom-built copper fountain. The fire pit space is nestled between the screen porch and concrete retaining wall and includes a built-in seat wall. At the far end of the yard is a Japanese style specimen planting with stones for added textural interest. The design concept was to break up the ‘rooms’ by season. From the spring blooming plantings and the large summer entertainment patio with the revitalizing fountain, to the fall fire pit and evergreen topiary rock garden, each space provides the client with a unique way to experience their landscape.

Challenges

The small size of the rear yard was a challenge because it is so long and narrow, creating a bowling alley effect. We had to find a way to break up the length of the space into attractive and usable areas. The large concrete retaining wall was a requirement, so we had to tie it into the design and aesthetic of the space.