Landscape Plan: Backyard design thoughts

My initial meeting with the landscape designer went well. We talked about what we could do in the backyard - incorporating my wishes into this already small space. We had some constraints, the existing maple tree and exit from our basement, that seemed to pose problems. All of that was clearly taken care of in this initial talk.

Initial backyard plans:

• Remove Maple tree: The small maple planted by previous owners has shallow roots and is planted far into our yard. Any plans for expanding the existing deck, or adding a patio was stunted ebcause of the tree. At first, this tree was a non-negotiable because of it's pretty shape, but we decided it can go and now we can expand our patio to this point. In addition, the tree competes with the huge Sugar Maple behind it for water, so it's not in the best health. 

 

The tree to come down

• Remove Deck, Replace with Softscape: The deck was off the dining room (and now off the kitchen with our new window configuration). It was over a sloped grade in our yard, as well as the exit from the basement (per code). We figured this was our only option. Not so. We are going to remove the deck and plant a softscape along the new dining room window. At the corner of the house we can put up evergreen screening or a specimen tree.

The deck to go BYE BYE, and area for patio

• Add patio: Off the new kitchen exit, we are going to build a nice stoop that leads to a terraced patio (terraced because of the sloping grade). It will extend out into our yard and wrap around. Along it we will have perennial beds and our water fountain. It should be big enough for some eating, lounging and a chiminiea.

• Utility Pole: Climbing hydrangea 'Moonlight' for this shady area

Climbing hydrangea 'moonlight'

• Existing garden beds: To be determined. The plants need to be inventoried and a new bed designed. The only plant non-negotiable is the Pagoda Dogwood.

• Vegetable Garden Design: Where our existing patio is will be a new vegetable garden "potager" style with brick pavers throughout to walk and raised beds. A paver walkway into the yard will leave small areas open for thyme and other groundcover.

Patio & veg garden to be new Potager

I am giddy with excitement!