sleek and comfortable outdoor rooms coalesce with the interior through an intuitive flow
—project description—
As part of a landscape architectural renovation and re-imagination, this Dutch Colonial’s interior has been graciously extended beyond its walls into a series of sleek and comfortable outdoor living spaces. A repeating series of fieldstone pillars is arranged asymmetrically within linear paving bands and broad granite steps to delineate distinct use areas. In addition to providing an organizational framework, they also facilitate built-in landscape lighting and serve as pedestals for limestone architectural planters that are periodically updated to suit the seasons. Clean, contemporary lines are juxtaposed against traditional architectural elements and added visual tension results from the use of linear geometry to achieve undulating circulation patterns. Soft bands of turf grass within fields of bluestone reinforce the direction of movement. The effect is an intuitive flow between outdoor rooms that coalesce with the home’s interior. Plantings are built around existing hedgerows of Hemlock, Spruce and Western Cedar. The new under story lends human scale and definition to the entertainment spaces. A specimen Japanese Tree Lilac and Kousa Dogwood provide stately focal points and added screening. Broadleaf evergreens add structure and spring flowering to the beds. Drifts of Japanese Forest Grass and a variety of ferns, hosta, astilbe and anemone add soft textures while Oakleaf Hydrangea varieties provide a striking pop of color throughout.
LOCATION: Lexington, MA | ARCHITECT: Timothy Cronin