From Blank Turf to Premier Outdoor Living (Loveland)
AFTER: A turf lawn is transformed into an inviting patio seating area surrounded by native plants.
The Challenge
Our clients knew their backyard had potential to create an inviting, functional space to enjoy. They wanted the yard to feel welcoming to visitors and provide spaces for them to actually want to hang out in the yard.
BEFORE: The turf lawn provided a blank slate… and the homeowners weren’t sure where to start.
But sometimes, having a blank slate of turf can be overwhelming, and analysis paralysis can kick in.
When so many possibilities present themselves, where do you start?
The Transformation
AFTER: What it’s all about: getting outside and connecting with family right in your backyard!
AFTER: A cheerful seating area and crushed stone patio invite gatherings with loved ones.
Outdoor Living
We started by creating a flagstone patio close to the back porch (see the very first picture with the blue chairs, above). This accessible seating invites outdoor living, providing opportunities to bask in both sun and shade while reading or enjoying an evening cocktail.
Farther back in the yard, we created a crushed stone patio (see the picture directly above this text with the yellow chairs) for family hangouts around a fire pit.
Designing to improve privacy and shade in both these spaces was critical to their success.
AFTER: While we converted most of the turf into more functional spaces and native landscaping, we left plenty of room for play!
Improved Access
Access off the back porch was improved by removing the existing steps off each side and focusing activity directly off the porch. This creates an invitation to walk back into the yard rather than off and into the driveway. Crushed stone pathways in this space provide easier access in and around this area.
AFTER: Native aronia shrubs provide edible berries enjoyed by humans and pollinators
Edible Landscaping
A cedar raised vegetable garden bed was located for optimal solar exposure and close proximity to the house.
A swath of native and edible aronia shrubs and serviceberry trees were placed along the fence line, providing a bumper crop of rich antioxidant berries in June and July.
AFTER: Native plants flank a crushed stone pathway that invites travel throughout the yard and between the two new patios.
Native Plant Design
We always focus on native plants for low maintenance, beauty, and ecosystem support throughout the landscape. Some of these included echinacea, agastache, and rudbeckia, among some of our other favorites!
AFTER: A riot of colors from native plants greets the entrance to the crushed stone pathway.