Re-Design Your Patio
If your patio was installed by the builder of your home, it is likely that little thought was given to placement, function or design. That’s exactly what happened at this seaside home in Duxbury. The home’s existing patio was poorly designed and unappealing. So the owners decided to have the patio re-designed. The new bluestone patio was pulled further out from the home to allow space for plantings. A seatwall anchors the outer edge of the space, while new pathways allow access from the house and to the pool. An antique granite millstone was inlaid in the patio as a creative way to allow access to underground utilities.
See more of this project: South Shore Patio Re-design
Captain's Landscape Design and Build
Duxbury, MA
Design on Multiple Levels
When you have a large outdoor space with many features, it is wise to break it up into different areas. Instead of using walls to separate spaces like we do indoors, landscapers use elevations changes to mark transitions. In this backyard, there are three main levels. The level above the pool features a curved pergola and chaise lounges, the middle level features the pool and spa, while the lower level has an outdoor fireplace, two grills and a water feature. Depending on your home’s topography this can be achieved in different ways. If you already have a slope, retaining walls can be built to create terraces. If your yard is flat, extensive grading and excavation may be required.
Learn more: 7 Reasons for Elevation Changes to Flat Sites
Yard Boss Landscape Design LLC
Mattapoisett, MA
Accentuate Your Architecture
Cape Cod homes have an architectural style that has been mimicked across the entire United States. This Waquoit Bay home had that recognizable architecture, but its landscape did not do it justice. The driveway, front yard and entryway were transformed to complement the home and provide much needed curb appeal. To adhere with local conservation requirement, the 400 foot long driveway was paved with pea gravel for permeability. Low columns and native stone walls were added to mark the driveways entrance. Where the driveway meets the home it opens around an island focal point with an armillary sphere, aged boulders, shrub plantings and a ginkgo tree. Finally, a flared bluestone walkway, a pair of containers flanking the front steps and a custom arbor funnel the eye to the front door.
Get more ideas: Cape Cod Garden-A Product of Collaboration
Elaine M. Johnson Landscape Design
Centerville, MA
Enjoy the Outdoors in Luxury
Spending time outdoors does not have to mean roughing it, that’s what camping is for. On your own property, you can create a space to relax that is every bit as comfortable as the indoors. Here, the patio feels like a true extension of the home rather than an afterthought. This was achieved by using high-end materials that blend nicely with the exterior of the home. Furthermore, the curved stone wall creates a sense of enclosure without blocking views out into the yard. When installing a patio, it is wise to select your furniture first and design the patio to comfortably accommodate the pieces you chose.
Get more patio planning tips
Yard Boss Landscape Design LLC
Mattapoisett, MA
Install a Fire Feature
Fire has an unexplainable power to draw people in and create enjoyment. Nearly everyone has pleasing memories of sitting around the campfire as a child and listening to stories. You can recreate this same atmosphere in your own backyard with a custom fire pit. This one is a large stone fire ring with built-in seating. Depending on local codes and your desires you can pick a gas or wood burning fire pit. Gas is great because it is convenient, safe and has no smoke, while wood is popular because of its warmth and authenticity.
Compare your fire feature options: Fire Pit vs. Fireplace
Captain's Landscape Design and Build
Duxbury, MA
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