The vision included the installation of a hot tub and deck, a covered stone patio to replace the incredibly large concrete slab that engulfed half of the yard, a cascading pond graced with a statue of Kwan Yin, a latticed fence extension for vines and added privacy, raised vegetable garden beds, meandering paths, and the addition of fruit trees and other edible landscaping.
The hot tub was set into a deck made with Evergrain, a composite decking made of post-consumer recycled plastics and wood chips, whose frame followed the geometry of a spiral. It was originally going to be a circular spiral with a circular tub, but later changed to follow the lines and curves of the tub yet keeping the original spiral geometry.
The patio is made from flat andesite rock locally found and grouted with mortar. It is covered by a cedar trellis. The trellis sealed with Timber Tek Wood Pro UV, and is specifically designed with a high ceiling to protect the tall south facing windows and a low ceiling to bring the scale down and to cool down the patio for dining, entertaining or just relaxing on hot summer days.
The pond is made with the same andesite rock as the patio. My inspiration behind it is the Narrows in Zion National Park. It is comprised of two pools, a small one that cascades down into a larger one. It looks as if the water has carved out it's way between the pools. It is graced with a statue of Kwan Yin, the Goddess of Compassion, and some ornamental plants and trees. She stands above, gazing upon the garden.
The garden unfolds with four raised vegetable beds, meandering paths that are bordered by wild flowers, climbing vines, edible landscaping and fruit trees. Over the next few years the garden will flourish into a lush and cool sanctuary.
The design/build process was very much in the flow throughout. There was constant feedback between the client and myself that made it simple, fun, and exciting. I would like to thank Joe Flanagan who lended his hand all throughout the project.
