Seamless spaces
The client sought a comprehensive outdoor transformation that would align with their early 1900s home while meeting modern lifestyle needs. They wanted to replace two bulky, disconnected decks with a seamless space extending from newly installed steel-and-glass doors. The redesign called for an inviting patio featuring a compact outdoor kitchen, seating for six at a dining table, a small lawn, a water feature and new plantings—all while ensuring the area remained secure for their two dogs. Versatility throughout the seasons was another important goal, to extend the family’s use of the space over the year.
BEFORE: This old deck was removed to make way for the landscape renovation.
View of water feature and patio space from lawn area, with side deck connecting to house. The plants on the right hand side were carefully selected to be installed in a narrow strip along the property line. The open design creates a feeling of open space and maximizes the compact square footage, while also allowing flow between the patio area, the house and the parking area in back.
The brick patio area, with automated aluminum Struxure pergola and custom-built outdoor kitchen. Drainage from the pergola is internalized in the pergola columns, while a channel drain catches stormwater from the patio. Low, lush plantings around the patio provide greenery without feeling confined or crowded.
The patio space as viewed from the sunroom. The newly-installed patio doors open up and connect the sunroom to the patio and outdoor kitchen area. A gate on the side deck separates front and back yards, allowing the dogs free access through a dog door to the fenced-in front lawn.
View from the patio area towards the lawn and the driveway/parking area beyond. The custom water feature poses as the centerpiece of the space without blocking circulation from the patio. The narrow deck guides you up into the side wing of the house. The tall narrow trees along the property boundary provide privacy, while sight lines are kept open to maintain a feeling of spaciousness.
Judges' comments about this project
- Overall design is a home run
- Using a rectangular theme in that space was smart, it made the most use of space
- Project made the back yard usable and more connected
- Good job working with the grades and controlling water flow
- Logistics required to create a blank slate are significant
- Like how the fountain creates a focal point
About City Garden Company
At City Garden Company, our goal is not just to design and build your modern outdoor living space. We want to it to be your favorite room in the house.