Modern Outdoor Sanctuary

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This homeowner expressed the need for a renewed environment that would invite anyone present to immerse themselves in the space. He is an award-winning film director and writer who has spent lots of time traveling between LA and New York. Arriving upon the opportunity to spend more consistent time at "home," he realized he needed a place to call home. This is when he purchased the historical school house on Kirk Road in Decatur and partnered with Arlene Dean Custom Homes to renovate the main house and build out the pool house.

Architectural design by Mosley Architecture and Gardens

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BEFORE: The foundation of this project was the brick patio and we had to first level, prep, and grade the ground surrounding the pool. This was one of the most time-consuming processes of the project and a key step to creating this backyard oasis.

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DURING: This brick patio was assembled using a stacked bond pattern, special ordered from Norman Brick, using 3-5/8in x 11-5/8in bricks.

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AFTER: This photo of the completed brick patio shows slits of Zoysia sod showcased throughout for design purposes.

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AFTER: The final product of this patio has created a statement for this backyard and ties in the rustic farmhouse with a modern design.

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BEFORE: This project included building an outdoor kitchen area, incorporating this cedar deck in the design.

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AFTER: We achieved our client's goals by building a custom cedar outdoor kitchen with a bluestone slab and creating a space where he can enjoy and gather with others. Whether it's cooking some steaks on the grill or making pizza in the pizza oven, this space is functional and aesthetic for our client to use for years to come.

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AFTER: Our client loves the look of the thermal bluestone counter slab. This piece was carefully placed on either side of the grill to create a pop of color/contrast against the cedar.

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AFTER: The pops of color throughout the brick, the plant material, and all of the details create a picturesque seating area.

Judges' comments about this project

  • Hardscape solution and installation are both excellent
  • Tough and complex project
  • Zoysia inserts in brick are really cool
  • Simple but beautiful
  • Great entertainment space
  • Kitchen is very creative
  • Nice arbor
  • Combination of wood with bluestone nicely done

We design and create unforgettable gardens for Atlanta’s finest homes: Detailed gardens crafted with intentional design using high-quality plants, flowers, shrubs, and trees; specialty-built landscape features providing the foundation for your garden’s character. Our seasoned team brings 50 collective years of experience to the art of designing Atlanta's finest gardens.

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