Landscape Architect: Peg Prizer, Prizer Design Group

Key Features: Outdoor kitchen, composite deck, gas fire pit, pergola, bluestone hardscape, extensive planting plan, outdoor lighting, parking court

Our Rydal client resides in a Wissahickon Schist stone Cape Cod on a large property in an established neighborhood. At the time they contacted us, they had only improved the interior of their home. Having a large, extended family, they wanted to create a space for entertaining in time for their daughter’s high school graduation party. Their property was a disjointed combination of a small patio, a white fenced pool that resembled a large playpen, a wooden play structure and a large BBQ grill positioned in the middle of the yard.

Phase 1 Goal: Transform the property into a vacation back yard getaway. Create a covered outdoor kitchen, incorporate a large built-in dining table for 12, a composite deck, a bluestone terrace with a gas fire pit and a pergola covered spa seamlessly tying in the existing pool area. In addition, enlarge the pool deck to accommodate adequate seating and lounging, and relocate the existing fence as to not obscure views from the outdoor kitchen to the pool.

Phase 2 Goal: Address the front entrance area to the home. Fencing location made it hard to recognize where the entrance was from the street. Overgrown shrubs were removed. A black metal fence was relocated to open up the space while adding a wider bluestone entrance walk with a new landing by the front door. Strategically placed plantings and lighting complete the setting making this a welcoming entrance garden year round.

Phase 3 Goal: Following the renovation of an existing detached garage, a driveway/parking area needed updating to accommodate family cars and tie this area to the home. Re-grading and enlarging the area in front of the garage created a beautiful parking courtyard while simultaneously correcting drainage issues which had plagued this area for years. This courtyard hardscape also incorporates a paver band border bringing simple elegance to the space. A tranquil viewing garden was strategically designed so that it could be seen while working out from the exercise area inside the garage!