Davidson Residence
May 27, 2013 § Leave a comment
The Davidson’s were interested in removing their front lawn and making a new connection to the street. They also wanted an edible landscape in their front yard that would be easy to care for without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.
a street side view
Several stone walls were built to maintain a relatively level planting area in the center of the yard and also to support a new entry patio.
the new driveway and entry steps improve the connection between house and street
The curbside improvements allow guests to approach the house on a stone pathway that cuts through a thick bunchgrass planting and connects to the new entry steps.
a Bluestone pathway guides foot traffic to the main entry
The grasses provide some visual continuity that supports the otherwise diverse planting plan. Walking along the city’s sidewalk through the wash of blue fescue feels a bit like a brief stroll through an urban meadow.
the sidewalk cuts through a bunch grass ‘meadow’ at the base of the lower wall
Beyond the first wall, an array of berries selected for both their variety and ornamental qualities can be harvested along the main walkway and a stone path that cuts across the yard diagonally. At the top of the stairs, a stone patio provides seating and a view over the top of the planting toward the forested skyline of nearby Hendrick’s Park.
the upper patio shortly after installation
a new lantern at the base of the stairs
A new drip system and an abundance of drought tolerant species reduced the irrigation needs in the yard. As the landscape matures, a flush of spring and summer flowers will give way to the bright colors of a fall harvest. Felix Brothers once again proved to be invaluable members of the Land Sight team. Their sand-finished concrete stairway and driveway are both beautiful and functional. Dave Macrorie is truly a master of his craft, and his stonework on this project will be enjoyed for numerous years to come.
bunch grasses tie the yard and parking strip together
