A Cool Space for Warm Summer Evenings

Mid_Century_Modern_Courtyard_Makeover_Project_Groundwork_Landscape_Architects__HR-20-2000x1333Already partially enclosed by an ipe fence and concrete wall, SCJ’s landscape architecture client had a vision of an outdoor courtyard for entertaining on warm summer evenings since the space would be shaded by the house in the afternoon. He imagined the space with a water feature, lighting and paving surrounded by plants.

Mid Century Courtyard Makeover 13With our marching orders in place, the team at Project Groundwork, SCJ’s Seattle-based residential landscape architecture studio, drew up a schematic plan quickly and met to review two options for the space. These options quickly coalesced and combined into a single vision for the space.

A thick, 60” tall concrete wall would enclose the opening to the street – creating privacy and security, and making a bold statement. We knew the gate had to be interesting enough to stand up to the large concrete walls on either side; so, we designed and had custom fabricated, by Dennis Schleder, a beautiful, visually dynamic metal gate. The gate has become the icing on the cake, all 300 pounds of it!

Mid Century Courtyard Makeover 2Other touches include drought tolerant planting, bluestone paving with pebble accents, crushed granite paving, LED accent lighting, and outdoor furniture. Both existing trees were retained and are thriving with their new soil. The garden was installed in December and our client is extremely happy with the results – so are we!

Though the pictures speak for themselves, here’s what the client had to say.

Mid Century Courtyard Makeover_F“I couldn’t be happier with having chosen Mark as my landscape architect. From the onset, he was very focused and attentive on helping me design a space that would satisfy my needs. His communication is outstanding and always kept me up to date with where things stood and what the next steps would be.

His vast experience in Landscape Architecture helped me avoid many pitfalls that would have been inevitable had I simply hired a landscape company to create something for me. He has a great eye for design and was open to my ideas but also not afraid to tell me when my idea wasn’t going to work. That to me, is a clear sign of experience and confidence, something that is worth every penny. I’m extremely pleased with how my space turned out and It wouldn’t have been feasible without the help of Mark Garff.”

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