The existing landscape for a large residence in Bethesda had the remains of what was once an elegant garden. Over time, however, through neglect and erosion, much of that landscape had disappeared. The client’s goal was the creation of a simple but elegant garden based on the original that would also accommodate three active children. Hence the inclusion of a large lawn area in the front yard absent ground level herbaceous plantings that could be destroyed by bicycles and errant soccer balls. The perennial beds in these areas could come later.
There were several mature tulip poplars and oak trees in the rear and side yards that the client wished to preserve. This was accomplished by working with an arborist to identify and avoid existing roots, through the use of an air spade, and developing custom wall details with the structural engineer that would bridge and span them. These included spread footings, grade beams and floating walls and anchors. All of the existing trees were preserved successfully and are thriving today.
The small garden room to the right is located off of the study. It is part of the sequence between the more active front lawn and more contemplative ellipse in the rear. The purple tulips and alliums provide a seasonal contrast to the cool, understated white that predominates the garden.
L0.01 Landscape Concept Plan Preferred Option Landscape Concept (1)
