Our project began with the client making several requests:

• Get rid of the gravel in the front garden and replace it with a circular patio.
• Fix the retaining wall in the back garden that was falling over with rot.
• Do something to soften the neighbors wall.
• Make it look nice.
• Solve poor drainage in the back-garden.
• Fix a large crack in the driveway concrete where it transitioned to the garage.

The project consisted of a graveled front yard, no irrigation and a backyard of solid concrete.

Strategy:

• Paint out curved paths and patios on top of the existing concrete that covered the back-garden.
• Use a large concrete saw to remove all concrete not in the lines.
• Pour a new pathway and slab for the patio in the front garden.
• Cover all concrete with 12" natural stone tiles, adding color with small clusters of hand-painted Mexican tiles.
• Add an irrigation system for the entire garden.
• Add low voltage LED and brass lights for trees and all pathways.
• Add a sump-pump and several drains and an electrical outlet for the sump pump and bring all water to the front street.
• Install a wood screen to hide the plastic garden shed.
• Replace the collapsing straight wood retaining wall with a curved dry-stack stone wall.
• Plant low-maintenance plants with largely year-round interest and color.
• Install a 4" drain grate between the driveway and the garage.
• Give keychain remotes to the client to control the fountain and lights from inside the house.

Metrics:

• Timing: Project took seven weeks and was completed 1 week earlier than the contract completion date.
• Budget: Fixed cost bid with no surprise costs: $82,000. including tax.
• Design fees: $1020.
• Permits: None.