November 2011 Project of the Month

Rock Solid Hardscaping / Landscape Design by Amanda

This historic home was restored by a Jarrettsville family which included an authentic reproduction of a working Irish pub in the backyard!  When the house and pub were finished, the homeowners were ready to complete the picture with an outdoor living space.  To continue the style from the home and pub, the homeowners were interested in creating that "winding streets of Ireland" feel.  The homeowner researched reputable contactors in the area and contacted Rock Solid Hardscaping (RSH) as the design/build contractor.  After the initial consultation, RSH contracted Landscape Design by Amanda to design the project.

The goal of the design was to incorporate a large outdoor patio for entertaining, a fireplace, a water feature, and outdoor lighting in a small space nestled between the house, the pub, and some out buildings. The main challenge for this project was the slope in the space where the patio was to be designed.  The only way to incorporate all the elements requested was to design a series of terraces.  While necessary, the retaining walls also act as seat walls to the patio and create the exact cozy, authentic feel the homeowners were looking for.  Steps and walkways provide access to the different levels and planters were designed above the walls for safety, drainage, and to soften the lines.