When we started the design process on this project, this back yard was grassy and sloped with a large, elevated deck off of the back door. Our clients wanted more useable yard space, with integration between their entertaining space and play areas.

We decided to smooth out the yard by excavating part of the yard and creating a large sunken patio. We dug out the center of the yard, making sure to work around the roots of the large tree in the middle of the yard. As we worked, we collected the large limestone boulders and slabs we found and incorporated them into the design of the new patio, flower beds and retaining walls.

Mortared limestone retaining walls hold back the soil and add a natural contrast to the square concrete pavers that make the floor of the patio. Custom designed grey Cantera marble steps lead to the patio from the back door, and ease the transition from the sport court to the patio.

We created new flower beds around the back yard and built a secret garden hideaway around the side of the house in a formerly empty space that was never used.

In the front and side yards, we added dense perennial and shrub plantings to create a wild and natural contrast to the more traditional style of the home.