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Patio, Stairs & Walls

Northampton, Mass.

The clients were looking to install an outdoor living space in their landscape. The above ground pool was recently removed from an area that was conductive for our project because of it size, soil and orientation. We removed the pool deck, re-graded the area, created an upper terrace for perennials, put down a gravel foundation and built the patio, stairs and walls. The clients, avid gardeners, will themselves plant a mix of native, drought tolerant and low maintenance perennial. Four Flowering Dogwoods will also be planted on the south side to provide shade. We produced a design and planting plan for the clients which they will implement under our guidance.

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Please roll mouse over photo to see After & Before

After (3 Months Later): The area, yet unplanted, is a good example of finding a problematic part of the landscape and turning it into an asset. The patio, 240 sq. feet, is the optimal size for there lifestyle. They wanted it to fit a table that seats 5, a barbecue grill, and 2 end tables while not feeling either crowded or to vast.

Before: This was how the site looked when we arrived to consult with the Truncellitos. They just considered the area and eyesore and never had though that it could be used as a positive asset to the landscape.

The site previous to installing the Goshen Stone walls, patio, and stairs was an unused pool.  Jim in consultation with his masons and the clients found a better use for 
the area. The walls, patio and stairs are finished.  The clients have an outdoor 
living space they will enjoy for years.

The old deck has been removed and the re-grading has started.

A blank slate to work with.

The top soil is excavated then forms are built to hold in the 1 foot of ¾" stone used for the foundation.

When Hilltown Tree & Garden installs a foundation their philosophy is to install a foundation that will support a patio for

From a logistical standpoint it made sense to build the walls first, then the stairs, and the patio last.

We use Goshen wall, stair and flagstone for all of our hardscaping projects.

Finding the correct next piece of flagstone is both an art and science.
At an average stone weight of 275 pounds, choosing the wrong piece can be a time consuming mistake.

The masons look for the best piece for the spot.

Stairs can be one of the most time consuming part of the project. To get them tight, square, and level requires expertise and patience.

The stairs are both functional and beautiful.

The stairs and walls are built. Now time to finish the patio.

The walls create a flat area to plant native perennials.

Success! The clients are most pleased with their functional and aesthetically pleasing sitting area just outside their kitchen window.

A birds eye view of the patio, wall and stairs.  Soon to be planted with perennials 
and trees.

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