When re-designing the previous landscape the opportunity was taken to add activity areas into the surrounding gardens and pathways. Some areas allowing for quiet enjoyment of the view...

... other areas allowing for the enjoyment of the warmth of a fire and the company of friends. This is a view of the fire area adjacent to the swimming pool. The raised grill allows for seating both above and below the level of the fire and makes cooking hot dogs and roasting marshmallows a lot...

Joints between irregular stone slabs were left wider than normal to allow for the planting of heat and traffic tolerant herbs in the joints. This effect allows the distinction between patio and garden to almost disappear.

Garden colour should not be defined simply by flowers. The evolving colour of the Sedum 'Angelina' seen in the foreground is an example of this. Beginning the season as a bright chartreuse green, mellowing to a bright yellow, and seen here as a glowing orange, The fall colour combines the previous...

The view from the fire patio to the swimming pool. The width of the paving joints changes as it approaches the area given to the pool. Plants seen growing through the stone joints enjoy very hot and dry conditions which are not compatible with the routine use of a swimming pool. It also helps to...

The width of the paving joints changes as it approaches the area given to the swimming pool. This allows for a smoother, more even footing beneath bare feet.

The view across the swimming pool to the pool house and screened porch.

Trees, shrubs and perennials were selected for their form, texture and multi season colour. The steps wind back and forth across the slope making the passge easier and the view ever changing.

The perrennial border along the pathway in autumn.

The colour within the garden keeps going even as the summer wanes. Cranesbill geranium (Geranium 'Rozanne') has violet blue flowers with small white centers and purple-violet veins which contrast well with the beautifully cut green leaves. This is a vigorous perennial geranium that grows in a mound...

Descending the stairway with a view towards the main house.

River Birch (Betula nigra 'Heritage'), Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) and Witch-hazel (Hamamelis sp.) were chosen as part of the plant palette for their multi-season beauty and also because they are plants natives to our region. They are well-acclimated to Pennsylvania's long winters and...

The view from the cabins front porch into the garden and down on to the main house.