I'm still recovering from Halloween - 538 trick-or-treaters is a LOT Of kids - and it's still framing how I look at things. Of the nearly $200 we spent on candy we have a bowlful … [Read more...]
Dry Streambeds for Drainage in the Landscape
Often when I'm meeting with a landscape design client in the DC metro area, drainage comes up as a concern. Sometimes the client knows he or she has an existing problem while other … [Read more...]
How Much Does a Retaining Wall Cost in Northern Virginia?
I recently spoke with someone who was looking for a retaining wall, four feet tall and ninety feet long. Before moving forward with a consultation he wanted a sense of what such a … [Read more...]
What is a Concrete Turndown Edge on a Patio, Anyhow?
Sounds so fancypants, doesn't it? I have a few projects underway that need one, and it's a simple concept that sounds more involved than it is. When installing a patio, you want … [Read more...]
Design Considerations For Outdoor Kitchens
I have a photo of an outdoor kitchen I designed that's in my presentation portfolio. Outdoor kitchens are funny. They appear to be one of those things for which there is no middle … [Read more...]
Fredericksburg Pool, Patio & Pergola Design
This week I stopped off to check in with a landscape design client in Fredericksburg, Virginia. This is probably one of my favorite projects of the year. I'll do a more … [Read more...]
Landscape Design Lessons from a Newport Mansion
Several weeks ago MJ and I made the drive to Rhode Island for my niece's high school graduation. We stayed an extra day so we could celebrate my mom's birthday. Since everyone had … [Read more...]
Formal Water Features in Landscape Design
Sometimes you want to wear flip flops and shorts, and sometimes you want to rock a more classic look. Formal water features never go out of style! Your garden feels the same … [Read more...]
Landscape Inspiration: Brick Details
I grew up in New England which means that the most commonly used landscape material was stone. Oh, did we have stone! I maintained a love affair with stone throughout my career, … [Read more...]
Wildlife and Water Features
One of the benefits of having a water feature is that it will become the cool watering hole for the neighborhood critters. I'm working with a landscape design client in northern … [Read more...]