Hilltop Views
Design: Monica Fairbairn
Boulder Edging
This Watertown client had a steeply sloped front lawn on a corner property with a lot of potential. However, the presence of bedrock within inches of the soil’s surface severely limited plant growth. Because the hill was continuously shedding mulch, we started by building two New England Boulder retaining walls in a dry-laid fashion(without mortar), matching an existing on-site stone wall.The client also needed a lawn and plantings that would both tolerate a lot of sun and bring an element of symmetry to frame their home
Side Entry Plantings
To meet the client’s need for an environmentally friendly approach to lawn maintenance, we installed a customized irrigation system that uses untreated rainwater, decreasing water usage and costs overtime.
Side Entry Plantings
Behind the house, the patio garden was visible to neighbors higher up the hill. We opted for a screening hedge and trellises for an element of peaceful privacy. Shallow soils and shade at the main back entrance inspired a Japanese-style garden of smooth river stones, a bluestone focal point, and pottery. Well-placed outdoor lights further enhance the garden as an inviting space for outdoor living.
Hilltop Views Patio
Now seeing the fullness of the plants in the back patio and how much different the front of the home looks compared to the original home makes your eyes draw to it even more. It looks like it has been that way for many years!
