This project had many obstacles to overcome
not only in design but also in implementation. Site access, steep
slopes (1:1 slope) and existing trees all posed interesting challenges.
The owner's project program included a natural
lannon stone outcropping appearance, stair access to the lakefront
and a seating area for viewing the lake. All elements were ultimately
integrated into the design.
Since the total grade change was greater than
12 feet, careful attention was given to the staircase design.
To make it feel less daunting to climb, a series of three landings
were added as resting spots. The middle landing imitates a terrace
with a built-in lannon stone outcropping bench and woodland plantings
surrounding.
The woodland setting of the site inspired
the planting design. A wide variety of native woodland plants
were placed in gaps between outcropping stone to mimic a natural
woodland appearance rather than appearing manmade. The plantings
provide an assortment of colors, textures, fragrances and forms
for seasonal interest.
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| This natural retaing
wall and stair system make for a great transition to the lakeshore
below. |
This "before" picture shows the challenges
of the steep slope and existing trees on site. It also shows the intimidating
wood steps the owners wanted to eliminate. |
|
Besides
the main challenge of a steep slope to work on, it was difficult
to bring material in due to soft terrain caused by the high water
table near the shorline of the lake. A stone road had to be built
to gain access to the site and small loads of lannon outcropping
stone were brought in because of limited on-site storage. |
The
retaining walls above and below the steps had to be constructed at
the same time as the winding lannon stone staircase was installed
to meet the existing walkway. |
| Careful attention
was given to the placement of each stone to match the shapes and grades
of the retaining walls and of the steps and landings. |
This photo
was taken a couple months after the project was installed. The picture
shows the careful attention that was given to the choice of the
retaining wall stone used to work well with the site and with the
existing stone of the house. |
|
The lannon
flagstone landings between the sets of stairs also work will with
the natural lannon stone outcropping retaining walls. |
Plantings between the stairs and retaining walls
enhance the beauty of the natural stone and soften the overall appearance. |
| The completed project offers
the homeowner many different places to stop along the way to enjoy
the view of the lake. The shaded location adds to the enjoyment on
hot summer days. |
The wooded site
makes fall a great time to appreciate the landscape. |
| The natural materials
and colorful woodland plantings create interest throughout the year. |
This landscape project has the advantage of viewing
from many different angles. Here is a dramtic picture from the upper
balcony. |
|
This
is a close-up of the seating area that was strategically placed
at a landing midway down the stairs to provide a resting spot while
enjoying the view of the lake. |
The homeowner is able to enjoy
the lake as well as the view back to the residence. Because of the
design elements implemented in the project the owner enjoys the walk
back up to the house as well as the walk to the lakeshore. |
