Where do we begin with this project….. This property was due for a complete makeover. Our clients gave us a fairly open pallet on this project. We shared some photos of past natural stone work and they loved it. Typically we are the last contractors on the job and get the joy of polishing off the project for the homeowners. This was no different as they had recently finished renovating the interior and painting the exterior of the house. Before we began, we suggested removing a few trees as it was a heavily wooded lot filled with white pines. We were tackling three major areas of the property, the front entrance, rear entrance, and the secret garden patio.
On this project we sourced local stone from Barre, MA which has a unique grain and blue hue similar to “imported” blue mist granite. All of our patio material was live edge cut boulders at 2” for the paving surface and 7” for the treads. We started in the back corner of the property creating the secret garden and fire pit area. This patio area was hidden by a mature row of PJM rhododendron which gave ample privacy from the road. We utilized reclaimed granite curbing for the fire pit.
The next phase of this project was the rear entrance. This area proved to be difficult as we had a few challenges in place. Directly off the deck stairs was the cap for the septic tank. To keep access fairly easy, we cut one of the flagstone pavers to be removed when the tank needs service. We then moved to the front yard where we would need to do some serious boulder and drainage work to accommodate the grade of the front lawn.
Instead of a stark stair-set to the front walkway, we chose to break the entrance down into two landing areas. These provided a nice break in the grade and also a smooth transition spot as the walkway curled towards the house. For the front walkway we installed a “caterpillar’ style walkway where the stones remained live on the outside edges and have perfectly matched cut seems from stone to stone. This creates a smooth walking surface that is easy to clear in the winter.
To finish off the project, we installed a full foundation planting as well as complementary plantings throughout the yard. A full irrigation system and lawn were also installed. Our clients couldn’t be happier and they seem to be making great family memories making s’mores by the fire!
Before & Afters
Final Shots
