lakeside lagoon
This father re-built the home he grew up in on Gardner Lake, then a few years later did the same with the neighbors house to make one large estate on the water.
Have a similar project in mind?
In one of our largest collaborations, we reinvented this lakefront backyard to include a winding water feature and a fire pit hanging out over the shoreline, as well as a pool, patio, and lighting system.
the challenges
Slopes down to the lake
Sea Walls to level up lawn
Connecting old & new spaces
Tight Access
Low-maintenance needs
Need for outdoor living spaces above and below
how it went
a transformative outdoor living space
This property was the site of an old lake home that was demolished to make room for a new build on the water. After the property had been in the family for many years the son decided to create a new oasis for the next generation to enjoy life at the lake with new beginnings.
Later, the neighboring property became available and the family saw an opportunity to expand their living space and add much needed parking and garage. This expansion allowed for a bold statement, incorporating a grand water feature that started as a bubbling boulder near the front drive and flowed under the house to a waterfall and fish pond that then trickled down to the water’s edge.
Our Design Approach
Step 1) Layout Levels and Determine Circulation
We designed the tiered levels and sea wall along with a path and stairs connecting the dock to the walkout basement.
Step 2) Delineate the Planting Areas
Once we had the levels we then chose the bed layout and decided to use the lawn sparingly at the lowest level in the back for the dogs.
The remaining around the walls, foundation and driveway would become rock beds with plants. Later we would incorporate the water features, pool, and fire pit patio. The key to the fire pit was the relation to the water edge. The fire pit was actually cantilevered out slightly over the sea wall to create the feeling of floating.
Step 3) Design the Details + Material & Plant Selection
We wanted a natural feel for this project with Lake vibes. The family also wanted rock beds to keep the maintenance down and this required using heat and drought tolerant plantings.
We used natural flagstone, limestone and river rock for the hardscape and Spruces, Junipers, Grasses, Black-eyed Susans, and Catmint to keep the theme.
the results
a lakeside haven with endless possibilities
