Requirements of this unique space were plentiful.  Preserve the large surrounding trees and environment, provide optimal privacy in a prime downtown neighborhood, incorporate a play space for children, and integrate ‘old and new” themes.

Clay brick walls were constructed around the perimeter of the property to match the century old wall at the back of the property.  The plan incorporated an open span of formal lawn with perimeter planting for interest in all seasons.  Blocks of single specimen planting and many repeating elements such as linear lighting and similar material use merged the 1 acre yard.

The patio and steps were carefully planned to allow the clients to entertain large groups of people, yet not overpower the remaining design elements.  Large stone pillars flanked the 30’ wide stone steps, and carefully planned up lighting highlights their shape in the evenings.

The garden was designed to draw the eye to a different place as you tour the space. The rows of rectangular space are vastly different depending on which corner you are standing in.  A commissioned bronze face adds a modern art element.  Large steel sculptures were constructed in our fabrication shop to create strong vertical lines to emulate the vertical lines of the century old clay brick walls.  Wooden fences were built of tongue and groove cedar and place on top of the brick foundation walls to ensure maximum privacy at street level.  A 100’ span of an IPE deck boardwalk leads guests to the pool.  Ipe was chosen for it’s beauty and long lasting life as well as being from a sustainable source.

As one approaches this 10,000 square foot home from the front, one would not expect a private retreat in the backyard.  The materials used on the project are simple.  All foundations, swimming pool, slabs and walls are concrete faced with credit valley flagstone.