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Many of us grew up in a home with a front porch where everyone gathered. The
neighborhood came alive on those beautiful sunny days when we got together
outside and made other plans. One of our goals was to recreate that magic.
 Our
objective was not to “dress things up,” but to create a usable environment
that would also reflect the refined taste of the owners. The result is they
now spend a great deal of leisure time outside. The smooth, fitted flagstone
terrace feels comfortable on bare feet in the summer. The circular bluestone
terrace, accented with limestone urns, creates a welcoming area where
children gather and refreshments and snacks are served. Our clients not only
enjoy their new environment, but tell us it has changed their lifestyle and
enhanced their time with their children and neighbors.
One of our challenges involved blending the old with the new. Root pruning,
myccorhizal treatments, crown reduction, and supplemental watering have
maintained the vigor of the prominent Green Ash. To allow for root
regeneration, the base is compacted, granular and non-alkaline to not affect
the soil pH.
 Each
piece of stone for the columns and seat walls was carefully rock-faced on
all four sides by our crews to create a crafted, traditional look. The
circular patio and walls had to be constructed with precision to ensure that
the pre-ordered bluestone coping fit precisely.
Detailed planning is evident from step lights to drip irrigation in the
urns. Low voltage lighting enhances the simple, yet elegant design requested
by our clients. Over time, massing of yew, boxwood, and sumac will complete
the design intent and reveal a beautiful, yet practical environment that
will endure for years to come.
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