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Entry piers and gates frame the view of the estate. Canopy trees were protected and limbed up while the understory was cleared and planted with lawn and groundcover to create sight lines into the property.
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A carpet of ferns was installed under the grove of existing white pine trees. The texture and movement of the ferns create a lush ground plane.
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Shadows cast down on the ferns, following the sun and adding interest throughout the day.
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A meandering driveway leads to the motor court which is an arrival space for guests. A radiant heat system for snow melt was installed below the concrete pavers of the courtyard, entry stairs and front door landing. This eliminates the need for snow removal equipment in this area, as well as safe access.
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Tucked between an existing ledge outcropping and the residence, over-sized bluestone slabs create this intimate rear terrace. The proportion of the bluestone pieces is in balance with the scale of the vertical elements.
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Grading and drainage were particularly challenging in this space due to the flat site conditions. Mini catch basins placed in the plant beds had to be run around the house and to the motor court to an infiltration system.
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Planting is intended to soften the transition from the terrace to the ledge while adding color, texture and fragrance.
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Cascading down the ledge, the sound of water further contributes to this tranquil space.
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Making the most of every inch of space, an outdoor kitchen is carefully tucked off into this niche and into the existing conditions.
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Ledge was removed in a way to allow for the kitchen while maintaining a natural look. Utilities had to be brought to this space from the mechanical space below.
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Southbay quartzite adds a touch of warmth on all vertical elements.
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A mahogany top rail pulls materials from the architecture into the landscape. Ascend to the top of the steps to overlook the sports court below or enter the pool terrace above.
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Mechanical rooms and living space located underground below the pool deck are waterproofed and radiant heat is added to allow easy access from the house to the pool house year-round.
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Plants are used to create a layered separation from the drive (left). Mechanicals vent through the sides of the columns which support a pergola and double to define the formal entry to the pool terrace from the house.
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A tranquil environment is created with the use of water jets along the pool and a spillway on the spa.
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A series of mixed-use spaces surround the pool, this sun shelf pulls one space into the water. Lounge chairs rest in 12 inches of water while the umbrellas offer shade and the perfect spot to relax and cool down.
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The landscape elements are highlighted as the sun sets and lights automatically turn on. The interior / exterior relationship becomes seamless creating the perfect spot to entertain on a beautiful summer evening.