Remediation

Significant drainage remediation was required on this property before we could create the open play space in a woodland setting that these clients sought. Nothing stemmed the flow of storm water from the uphill properties; it pooled by the shed and flowed across the back of the property. The shed was removed and we planted moisture-tolerant plants along the fence to interrupt the flow; a concealed swale directs the water to a rain garden planted with species tolerant of occasional “wet feet”. At the side of the house the utilities were relocated, and the garbage cans, now set back from the path, are concealed from the driveway by tall shrubs.

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Nothing stems the flow of storm water pouring downhill and onto the property.

The flow is slowed by moisture-tolerant plants and directed by a concealed swale.

Storm water pooled by the shed and flowed across the back of the property.

The shed has been removed and the swale directs the flow of water to a rain garden planted with species tolerant of occasional “wet feet”.

The house seems to loom over the narrow deck directly behind it.

The bluestone patio replaces the deck and is partially surrounded by a low sitting wall. A feeling of spaciousness is created by extending the patio away from the house.

Utilities and garbage cans in full view of the driveway line the crumbling slate path next to the garage.

The utilities have been relocated, and the garbage cans, now set back from the path, are concealed from the driveway by tall shrubs.

Stone steppers create the transition between the rectangular bluestone of the patio and the informal flagstone of the pathway.

Boulders found on site during excavation are retained as decorative elements that also provide a place to perch.