This project began with the addition of a detached garage and expansion of a historical home. The challenges were significant: managing steep grade changes in a small area, capturing all additional water runoff onsite, and preserving the authenticity of the property’s historical character.
Originally, a rectangular planter and straight staircase were planned to address the grade. Once engaged, we reimagined the design into a curvilinear layout that softened the slope while complementing the rectilinear architecture of the home. Though it required convincing, the clients embraced the vision, allowing us to transform the property into a landscape that exceeded their expectations.
Using a common wall block in an uncommon way, we created serpentine retaining walls that introduced planting vignettes from every angle. The hardscape palette blended old-world charm with modern performance: pavers cast in the style of natural bluestone, bordered by thin European brick, and stately granite steps that made a statement of their own. Color variations in the pavers were intentionally mixed to achieve an authentic, timeworn feel, while modern sealants and warranties ensured durability.
Water management was a critical component of the design. To handle the excess runoff from the new addition, garage, patio, and driveway, we excavated a massive drywell in the yard. All downspouts were tied directly into this system, which was filled with crushed stone to allow rainwater to infiltrate below grade, recharge the groundwater table, and prevent washout into the street or storm drains. This solution captured all excess water onsite, ensuring sustainability and protecting the neighborhood from additional runoff.
The scale of the new addition initially felt oversized for the property. Through layered planting beds and tiered hardscaping, we restored balance, spreading circulation across multiple smaller staircases rather than one imposing structure. This approach created a more manageable and inviting transition between the garage and home.
The planting design was a true collaboration with the homeowner, an avid gardener. Together we curated a diverse palette that delivers seasonal interest, cut flowers, and pollinator-friendly species. Paying homage to historical gardens, we emphasized texture and foliage, with bursts of floral color acting as punctuation marks throughout the property. The layered design ensures the landscape will mature gracefully over decades, not just for immediate impact.
The result is a landscape that blends historical authenticity with modern convenience. It captures the old-world aesthetic while offering minimal maintenance and long-term resilience. Driving past the home, the serpentine walls, layered plantings, and stately materials create a striking impression that feels both timeless and fresh.
The clients adore their indoor renovations, but they have expressed that the outdoor transformation far exceeded their expectations. They now spend more time outside, enjoying the gardens and spaces that have become a highlight of the neighborhood.
