project highlights:
In response to various site obstacles, the yard design took a unique shape to address each of the many concerns that the clients presented with. By implementing a dense buffer along the existing highway, framing the house in lush planting beds, and providing spacious covered and uncovered patio areas the yard took on a fanciful character suited for all Mrs. Kennedy’s hosting needs.

project summary:
The Kennedy property presented a unique set of challenges. With grade change in the front and back yard, a large front pasture with a long winding driveway, existing planting beds, and the most important existing feature, the adjacent highway. The highway is located close enough to pollute the property with noise and diminish the enjoyability of the outside spaces.

Coupled with these challenges, the owners are frequent entertainers. Mrs. Kennedy wanted so badly to have a space to hosts guests and showcase her beautifully renovated home. As a result, the rooms created were all designed with parties in mind! The expansive side yard was turned into an entertainment yard to host guests and dinner parties, complete with an outdoor kitchen area, a fireplace, an overhead structure, and a dedicated parking area.

Though dinner parties and guest entertainment was a high priority, the owners still needed a place all their own. The rear yard was transformed by revitalizing the existing stone patio and framing it with lush plantings. The northern perimeter of the property showcases dense planting to act as a sound barrier for the noise from the highway and make the outside an enjoyable space.