Ever since starting my landscape design firm I've had an opportunity to meet with a lot of people, look at a lot of yards, and have a lot of conversations about how they want to … [Read more...]
Travertine Paver Patio Installers in Virginia – What to Know
When I was designing landscapes in Arizona, one option we had available to us was travertine marble tile. These were actual tiles - typically 12"x12" and less than a half inch … [Read more...]
Understanding Flagstone: Sawcut, Thermaled, and Chiseled Edges
You've decided to use flagstone in the landscape. Good call! You may not be done making decisions, however. If the stone will be used in an application where you see the edge of … [Read more...]
Drainage and Infrastructure Are Not Like Milk Duds
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...]
Don’t Fear Your Irrigation System – Basic System Layout Explained
I've had homeowners paralyzed with fear, unwilling to make changes to their landscape because of the terror that lurks below the surface. No, not Tremors (though that may be some … [Read more...]
When Do I Call a Landscape Designer?
I get asked this question (or a variant thereof) a lot. After all, when contemplating a major remodel or new home, I'm needed to put the icing on the cake. Here's where I fit … [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...]
Using Dry Stream Beds for Drainage
Here in Virginia we have clay soils that don't drain particularly well. We also get a fair bit of rainfall. When new subdivisions are built, especially in northern Virginia, the … [Read more...]