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.
Sometimes, having a blank slate of turf can be overwhelming, and analysis paralysis kicks in.
When so many possibilities present themselves, where do you start?
The Transformation
Together with our clients, we identified four primary goals: outdoor living, improved accessibility to the whole yard, edible landscaping, and native plants for pollinators.
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 for family hangouts around a fire pit.
Designing to improve privacy and shade in both these spaces was critical to their success.
AFTER: What it’s all about: getting outside and connecting with family right in your backyard!
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.
Edible Landscaping
Native black chokeberry shrubs provide edible berries enjoyed by humans and pollinators
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.
Native Plant Design
AFTER: Native plants in a riot of colors flank a crushed stone pathway that invites travel throughout the yard and between the two new patios.