Our landscaping re-do was a massive project, which we did in two stages, last fall, and the rest this summer. The hardscape and construction aspect of it dominated and included the re-do of an existing retaining wall, new pavers for the driveway, improved walkway, and new stairway to the front door from street level where none had existed, a new side retaining wall and path running the length of the property from front to back, a new deck with small mirror image bluestone patios on each side, a drainage reservoir, and replacing an old irrigation system. In addition, the garden beds in front were expanded and improved, and new planting areas established along one side and in back.
Poised and professional designer Lauren immediately came up with a beautiful, graceful design for the front that solved the egress problems there on her first attempt, with no modifications required. Dave and Danny did all of the work in front. They were a joy to work with and the meticulous end result completely positively changed the presentation of the house to the street, and made us feel that much more confident about signing the much bigger contract for the second part of the job. For that, site manager Scott and his crew came on board. In Scott, we had a highly talented craftsman whose knowledge was impressive. He was responsible for dealing with drainage and grading, and all else that entailed transitioning our design from paper to 3D reality. The work was made even more complicated by the fact that it was on an urban lot, with limited access. We cannot say enough good things about all of the on-site crew members. I could set my watch by Scott's arrival each morning, and all worked hard all day, every day (Dave and Danny into the end-of-season cold, and Scott et al in unrelenting record-setting heat this summer). To a one, they were courteous, willing to answer questions and keep us informed. It is worth mentioning that many of them have been with Lotus for a number of years. In a business where turnover is high, we think this speaks well of the company, and we definitely felt that it was of benefit to us as clients. There are so many more positive things that could be said about the Lotus team, but suffice it to say, we think you're the best. And Lauren, it couldn't have happened without your beautiful plan as the blueprint.
Our project was a year plus in the planning and prep before we even found Lotus, clearing the property of old plantings, buckthorn and stump removal, switching out a redundant deck door for a window, and working with an architect to design the deck. Still, we despaired of finding someone to help us realize our vision. Disappointing contact with two other landscapers who clearly didn't have the capability to take it on meant that it wasn't with particularly high hopes that I filled out the on-line survey for Lotus when they were recommended by husband's co-worker. Traven contacted me the next business day, and scheduled a planning meeting only a few days off so that we could do the first phase before the weather changed. As soon as we signed the contract, in both instances, things started happening on-site when scheduled, and kept on until the work was finished. Traven's presence was less once the work began,( understandably since he was off running his very busy company in its high season), but he was always accessible to us if any issue arose, and has responded to a couple of post-job issues that will be revisited in the spring. In Lotus, we found a full-service company whose range is wide, and in particular, we think does unique and artistic stone and hardscape work. We wish them every continued success. Their motto is "Love Your Landscape", and now, we do!
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