Maplewood, New Jersey

 

Dramatically set on a wooded slope--with views of New York City to the east and a 2100 acre forest to the west--the project goals were to maintain the unique woodland feeling of the dense suburban site and maximize the sustainability of the yard while addressing decaying unsafe retaining walls, create a new front staircase and entry experience, and renovate an existing 40 year old swimming pool and patio.  Extensive planting of a variety of deer-resistant ground covers and ferns were added as a more sustainable alternative to lawn.  Mature tulip and beech trees were pruned and thinned and a new under-story of native trees,  shrubs and 3000 spring bulbs were added throughout the yard.  River birches,  masses of hydrangea and other evergreen shrubs surround the pool.  Project scope included selection of outdoor dining and lounge furniture.