A New Destination - Patio Garden

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The client recently downsized to a smaller home, but missed some of the outdoor space they had.  The existing deck is elevated and open to sky with lots of sunshine, but the couple felt confined and wanted to have a destination in the yard.  A place for additional entertaining, a place to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning or a glass of wine with friends in the evening.  The back yard was a challenge as the property was on a steep slope and dropped off sharply.  A good challenge always makes for a more interesting and delightful result.

Plan

  • The patio is designed with curves and movement to contrast the straight lines of the deck. 
  • The deck, patio and hot tub are at  different levels creating a functional and more interesting space.
  • A retaining wall winds across the backyard making usable space out of a steep slope, and softens what could have been a long hard wall.
  • Plantings and a new fence provide privacy for the hot tub and the view is forced diagonally across the yard making it feel larger.
  • Four season (evergreens and deciduous materials) are used to create a green buffer between the house and deck to absorb heat and ease the transition from patio to house.
  • Ground covers, perennials and shrubs provide layers of interest, form and character.

Before

Results

A destination lures people from the deck to the patio with garden beds,  usable space and its own set of views.