This majestic Tudor home has retained original period details, including a stone facade and grand turret, while being completely modernized inside. My clients, a family with two small children, wanted to build a garden that was consistent with the elements in Tudor design while prioritizing both modern living and security for their young family. We were able to satisfy all their requirements by creating two main spaces: a front garden with a courtyard and rear lawn with a large patio. Both spaces are enclosed by fencing and then bisected by a low picket fence and hedge.
We built the front garden around the existing courtyard and were able to employ the original, wisteria-covered, free standing stone wall in the design. A two-story stone turret is the focal point of the courtyard and adds rich character to the expanded bluestone patio that serves as the grand entrance to the home. Lush perennials like peony, iris, astilbe and hosta and shade tolerant flowering shrubs like lacecap hydrangea, rhododendron and dwarf fothergilla surround the patio. The multi-textured façade of the home inspired the simple, geometric stepping stone and grassy joint front walkway, which further enhances the textural effect.
The rear garden is an expansive open area that provides plenty of space for the kids to play. Ericaceous plantings such as rhododendron, azalea, and enkianthus are combined with Ivory Halo dogwood, stewartia and dappled willow for textural interest at the garden perimeter. A curved pergola and comfortable built-in seating rings the inviting entertainment patio, creating the perfect spot for casual family gatherings and formal cocktail parties alike.
An outdoor space is at its most beautiful when it reflects the style and dreams of the people who inhabit it. By carefully respecting the Tudor architecture while focusing on the importance of a safe, functional, and comfortable environment for this young family, we brought their vision to life.
