Landscape design

Outdoor kitchens, hardscaping, water features!  These are just a few of the catch phrases that are becoming common when talking about landscape design for the home.

Today I thought I would highlight a project that illustrates the application of these ideas, and some of the reasons the client has made the choices they have.

Take a look at this 3D image..... 

As you can see there is an extensive amount of "hardscaping" in the backyard!  That's over 400 square feet of patio!

This particular client had a deep desire to add extensive outdoor living space!  After many years of living on a large lot, they grew tired of an outdated design centered on interior living.  They had plenty of outdoor space but no access to really enjoy it!  As with many renovations, they were busting out for a change!  Their existing deck was elevated - four feet above grade - granting them an undesired vantage point over their neighbours, while feeling disconnected from their own backyard.

To mitigate this effect, the new deck was lowered in subtle stages to create a more natural procession to "ground level".  Instead of a six-run staircase, there are no more than 2 steps at any time, before a new surface level is reached!  Because there are four distinct "spaces" that can be used at any given time, the transition surfaces also help to delineate purpose and spatial structure.

From this perspective you can see the main focal area of the outdoor living space - the circular lowered patio!  I want to highlight some of the elements working together in this scene that create the overall architectural expression. 

Separation of spaces by altering patio levels, and highlighting the last patio level with a change in shape provide key visual cues that distinguish one space from another.  Movement, or procession through a space is an important design principle at work here!  The added visual interest of a curving stone wall also adds richness through variety in the expression of materials.  Can't you just imagine yourself in this space?  Access to the fireplace, outdoor kitchen, and finally, the outdoor dining area - all framed in a singular composition - make this design challenge a real success!