From our very first client meeting, we knew that Five Points would be fun project that would allow us to truly create an outdoor living space for the wonderful homeowners that inhabit the property.
The existing site conditions provided a fairly blank canvas. A manageable slope from the driveway, an existing deck, and a walkout basement provided the setting for the project.
The clients stated they desired a space to entertain friends and family. In this, they envisioned an area with ample room to seat a large family, plenty of access to the backyard for dogs and kids, and most importantly- a grand fireplace. Thinking prudently during the construction of their new house, the clients had the engineer and builder design a stormwater management system large enough to allow for a 1,000 square foot patio. This proved to be more than enough space to allow us to help our clients to achieve their outdoor living goals.
After our preliminary takeoff meeting, it was time to create a design that would capture the essence of what the clients were dreaming of. With all of our hardscaping and masonry jobs, we create at least two or three broad-stroke concept designs. This helps us think more creatively with our designs, as well as providing the clients with options reflecting multiple design influences and styles.
The fireplace is the focal point of this project and we wanted to be sure we got the design details right before the first shovel hit the ground. For intricate custom jobs like this fireplace, we use a 3-D design software to illustrate every detail to our client.
Once materials were selected and the design was revised to the clients liking, it was time to get started! Our incredibly talented masonry team started the project by constructing the framework of the fireplace. Next were the other vertical elements such as the wing walls and retaining walls. Finally, pavers went down to finish the space.
For paver installation, we opted for a technique known in the industry as a “hybrid installation”. This name refers to the use of a permeable stone base and an impervious paver/joint compound. The thinking behind this method is to evacuate as much water from the patio system as possible in order to prolong the life of the patio components as long as possible.
When the weather broke is the spring, it was time for my favorite part of any project-planting! We take our plant selections very seriously at Arrowwood. A poorly planned planting design can quickly ruin a great patio project.
Today these clients enjoy hosting family parties, planting heirloom flowers in the gardens around the patio, and relaxing in the tranquility of a beautifully designed and crafted patio.