ViewRidge Craftsman

Seattle, WA

This Craftsman-style residence is in the historic 1950s neighborhood of View Ridge. The home was recently renovated, but the landscape was dated and neglected; a few significant trees remained. The homeowners wanted to enhance the landscape to complement the architecture of their new home. Their goals included creating a family-friendly backyard, making the front more welcoming and accessible, and improving aesthetics and curb appeal.

Design Challenges:
In the front included integrating the two-story house with the small urban lot, enhancing the driveway, walkways and retaining walls, screening unwanted views, and maximizing plantings in limited spaces. The backyard required replacing an outdated deck, removing a failing tree, and transforming neglected lawn and garden areas into low-maintenance gardens and spaces for dining, entertaining, and play. Additional storage space was also needed.

Design Solutions:

  • The front entry walkway was redesigned, widened, and replaced with bluestone pavers; bluestone risers were added to provide a smooth transition from the sidewalk to the property; an ornamental metal handrail was installed to complete the space.
  • The driveway was expanded and bordered with bluestone edging. Bluestone risers were installed from the driveway to the walkway leading to the backyard.
  • Dry stack stone replaced old basalt rockery walls, creating clean lines and layered planting areas; the Montana Bronze stone sets the garden's color palette.
  • The front lawn was replaced with layered plantings for year-round color and interest, and trees in large containers were added by the porch.
  • The removal of a failing tree in the backyard allowed for an expanded epi deck, providing space for cooking, dining, and entertaining. Trash receptacles and utilities were screened to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space.
  • The lawn offers open play space, while planting areas feature a variety of native species, ornamental grasses, and flowering shrubs. Additionally, maple trees are planted to provide shade and vibrant fall colors.
  • A garden shed, detailed to match the house, was sited at the back of the planting beds.






















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