The client sought to turn their small backyard into a more comfortable, usable space with individual areas for dining, grilling, casual seating, a fire pit, and increased privacy from the neighbors.

The before view from the house to the backyard. There was room for improvement alright, but not much room—only 1,500 square feet.

A natural gas fire pit is now tucked into the corner (shown in photo 02), changing the ambiance and providing a slightly rustic feel from the rest of the area with its irregular bluestone paving.

The old patio and planters had seen better days.

The new and improved patio. The seat wall creates a safety buffer and additional seating while the wide steps keep an openness and transition to the lower level.

The boxwoods on the perimeter of the patio were an overgrown eyesore.

My how the patio has changed and the usable space has grown.

A bird’s-eye view of the upper and lower patios.

The dining table is in close proximity to the grilling area and indoor kitchen.

The built-in grill with under counter storage.

The arbor follows the radius of the seat wall and interrupts the sightline to the neighbor’s garage. It also accommodates festive lighting and speaker mounts.

The casual/conversational area is the center point of the terrace.

The steps are illuminated for both safety and aesthetics.

Dimmable lighting accompanied by surround sound helps set the mood.

The cozy and inviting backyard is now a garden haven secluded from the neighbors and surrounding visual blight.

Landscape plan