This once unkempt yard and post construction site left little to be desired. Ivy and euonymus battled it out with one another up the established trees and across the ground. Existing drainage issues, poor soil, and construction damage left the yard in dire need of creative solutions. Before the garden was installed the homeowners had little privacy as their backyard view was directly into their neighbor’s kitchen and garage. On the plus side, there were many mature trees anxiously waiting to provide shade and character to the space. A formal, Tuscany-inspired courtyard with a contrasting woodland surrounding was conceptualized.

This large courtyard patio is great for parties and family time with circular Oaks Romanesque paver details, and Oaks Colonnade pavers. The circle pattern of the pavers helps define the separate areas. To complete the formal pattern of the circles and craft the courtyard feel, the 8’ (at installation) columnar Sky Rocket Junipers were used as the backdrop in a semi-circle pattern with a row of Sky Pencil Holly in the lower layer. Both of these vertical plants create the walls of this space, and subsequently much needed privacy.

The circle details in the pavers are offset by the random pattern pavers, which were laid at 45 degree angles to help tie in the new garage with the existing house. The entry to the garden is flanked with two containers and an old bird bath is centered at the end. Over time the Sky Pencil Holly will fill in and create a room effect.

The formal shape and rounded top of the fountain provided the inspiration for the formal circle details in the pavers. Two cast stone containers in a matching finish frame the fountain while lady ferns soften the space.

A rain garden was also installed which helps to recharge the ground water supply and control erosion. Runoff from the patio and gutters is piped into the rain garden where rocks were specifically placed to encourage the water to flow gracefully. Plants growing in this part of the garden help to establish a woodland atmosphere. Lady fern, hosta, astilbe and equisetum provide texture.

Inside Out Design
Frankfort, KY

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