While most clients enjoy the design process they tend to be more focused on the completed project. This client however was truly passionate about the design process and it made for an incredible project. While this may not be the flashiest project, the attention to detail sets this one apart.
The client shared that they had a relative who had practiced Landscape Architecture out on the west coast and was inspired by some of the design and architecture books they had come into possession of. This design process was unlike any other. Sharing napkin sketches and countless inspiration photos became a daily routine. The theme for this residence was using timeless materials in a modern way.
Drawing inspiration from those architecture books, we started with a formal front landing and step with symmetrical planters on either side. We used a natural granite veneer that married well with the existing granite on the front entrance and chimney of the home. We then introduced the client’s favorite material, thermal true blue bluestone. We used the bluestone as the stair tread and the top of the landing and then brought in the modern flare with the contrasting curvilinear front walkway. The client wanted to make a statement with his driveway and thankfully he took a chance on our suggestion of a European style brick paver. We blended three varying colors of the brick pavers by hand to create the composition of the driveway. Once again pulling from a timeless material the narrow European style bricks and using them in a modern pattern perfectly exemplified the theme of this property. Pulling from those red and maroon colors of the driveway pavers, we featured this stunning specimen maple and encompassed it with varying textures and hues of evergreens for an elevated level of drama to this front planting.
Moving into the backyard, we went with a very clean and sophisticated look. Simple furniture arrangements allow you to focus on the elegance of the bluestone patios. Your eye is drawn immediately to the stunning Princeton Sentry Ginkgo that is framed by bluestone treads. Framed by rows of holly and lavender, more bluestone treads were used to create a stepping path to the lower patio. Drawing attention to the elevation change we constructed a beautiful step wall outlining the planting bed and tying into the stepping path. Even the back landings and steps were constructed in a way that blends seamlessly into the bluestone patio and step wall.
The client’s inspiration and our collaborative effort and attention to the details are what set this project apart from the rest. This is one that our team and the client are very proud of.