Our Clients are Jumping for Joy!

It isn’t every day that we get a request for a sunken trampoline. However, we pride ourselves in designing custom outdoor spaces for our clients. Especially during quarantine, it’s important to have your own personal space to decompress. When our client came to us for this special request, we treated this project just as we do all our projects. First we take a full assessment of the property. Then we write up a detailed analysis of the work to be done. Before we begin any work, we make sure that we have a clear understanding of our client’s vision for their space. That means we review the materials necessary for the project and outline the design choices that are available for our client. Needless to say, we learned a lot about trampolines by the end of our project.

Benefits of Jumping on a Trampoline

Our client did a great job describing how she wanted to use her space while educating us on the benefits of jumping on a trampoline. Did you know that jumping engages every muscle in your body? When you think about it, it makes perfect sense. The motion of moving up and down, due to gravity, stimulates all of your cells. Even if your feet don’t leave the trampoline, every muscle in your body experiences mechanical stress. The end result is improved total body strength. The higher you jump, the more you impact each muscle and the stronger you become. Besides great exercise, jumping can act as a great form of stress relief. If you would like to read more, check out this article: The Tremendous Health Benefits of Jumping On A Trampoline

Prep Work for In Ground Trampoline

Before we could begin the excavation, we demolition work to perform. First we removed the concrete and blacktop near the steps adjacent to the house. Then we prepared to excavate for the 8’x11′ below grade trampoline according to specifications provided by the manufacturer. It’s very important to follow the specific instructions. Otherwise, you will end up with a big muddy hole in your yard after the first rainstorm.

Prior to excavating, you must consider that you need enough space to gain access to the base for routine maintenance. In addition to digging a hole larger than the trampoline, you need to build retaining walls to prevent the sides from collapsing. It’s equally important to calculate for proper drainage and ventilation.

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Winter is the perfect time of year for planning your upcoming landscape projects. By looking back at our favorite projects of 2018, we hope to inspire some possibilities that will boost your homeâ€s curb appeal for 2019. Our winter post series will highlight the talent behind Cole Landscaping where the ultimate goal is to complement the natural beauty of your landscape. It is easier to assess your needs when the leaves have fallen off the trees and your plants have gone into a dormant state. Look around and see where your property could use some attention. Is there a focal point, or does your eye wander? Are there any hardscape features in need of repair? Contact Cole  and our professionals will be happy to assist you.

Patio Extension and Plant Relocation for Growing Family

Our client came to us with a small concrete patio and a large extended family!  The patio simply wasn’t big enough for the large extended family to sit and relax by the pool. Also, it was surrounded by a very overgrown landscape.  First of all, Cole utilized the existing concrete patio. By making it part of the overall hardscape space we were able to work within the client’s budget.

In order to provide just the right amount of contrast with the existing concrete patio as well as add visual interest, we chose Unilock’s Beacon Hill Smooth in a Copper Ridge color.

The Finishing Touch

We also revamped an existing garden (relocating existing shrubs and perennials) and added a second garden on the opposite side of the pool to soften the fence.  Overall, our client was more than satisfied. More importantly, we met the all the client’s objectives and completed the wish list by all by working with the existing landscape.

Do you have an area of your landscape that is underutilized? Cole experts have a knack for working within your parameters to achieve your goals. Contact Cole  and we’ll be happy to design a plan that works for you. By looking back at some of our previous projects, you may find your next inspiration.

An Inviting Patio In Danvers

An Entertaining Area In Beverly

Whiskey Barrel Spa

Magnolia Perennial Garden

Gloucester Shaded Escape

Stone Wall In Wenham

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Our Wenham clients came to us with hopes of creating a grand entry to their home. They wanted to revamp all of their entrances – front, side, driveway (garage) and back patio. Their yard was overtaken by large globe arborvitae that lined the driveway and walkway. These large globes were so big you could not see the front walk.

The front entrance, was hidden behind large globe arborvitae. We needed to open the view to the front door and create a more interesting walk. Instead of the harsh right angle and straight path, we added curves, widened the walkway and added a fresh new planting scheme.

The driveway had many issues for this family of 4+. First of all, it wasn’t wide enough. The homeowner could not turn the car around easily and there was not enough parking. Their kids liked to play basketball in the driveway, too, but with all the cars and the overgrown greenery, there wasn’t enough space. So the plan was to remove the globes along the driveway and remove part of the lawn to widen the driveway for basketball and more parking.

Our clients wanted more patio space that wasn’t quite as open to the public view for the back entry. Since they had a large area to work with, we designed a more secluded space using plants and trees as a natural divider. This  provided more room for the family to relax and unwind.

Challenges

The driveway was challenging to maneuver. It was difficult to back out of the garage and there wasn’t much room for parking. Our designer decided to create a bump out space to make it easier to back out of the garage. It also provided for the extra parking that they needed. Due to the grade (elevation) changes of the driveway it was necessary to build a retaining wall. The challenge then became a design opportunity: the wall matched the new walkways and patio and the new level space provided the basketball/extra parking area.

Finding ledge on site also posed another challenge. New plantings require an adequate amount of soil in order to thrive. Thus we had to relocate the proposed greenery to an area better suited for it.

Prep Work

After our designer went on site to identify all plants that were to be removed and relocated our crew got to work digging up pink-taped plants/trees (including stumps) and transplanting all green-taped plants/trees.

Then came the demolition work. We removed the original front and back walkways and patio and hauled away the debris. Then we excavated out the driveway for the basketball court/extra parking area.

To properly prep the site, we excavated down to 24″ below the finish grade, removed all loose material, compacted and installed geotextile fabric. Then we added 20″ of stone pack to ensure stability for the retaining walls and the paver installation. To allow for proper drainage, we installed crushed stone  (minimum 12″ depth) as backfill behind the retaining walls. Part of the prep work included digging a 4’x20′ trench for the electrical installation.

Our Design Approach

Our goal is to get to know each of our clients so we better understand their likes and their needs. We readily welcomed input from all members of the family, including grandpa and the kids. Their main objective was to keep things neat and tidy. For us this translated into a very clean planting and hardscape design that was not overwhelming. We selected plants based on a low maintenance plant palette.

The overall design was very much tailored to the family’s busy lifestyle and love for basketball and lawn games. It was especially helpful that our clients were not afraid of to use color because we were able to incorporate bold colored plantings and specimens that are typically underused. We got creative in the basketball/extra parking area. The retaining walls flair outward, accentuating the curvature of the driveway, walkways and patio.

Materials Used

Out clients chose Techo-Bloc Blu 60 pavers for their proven durability and the natural look inspired by slate stone. In addition to the pavers we installed two granite landings in the back. In the front we also installed a granite mailbox and light pole that added to the overall curb appeal of the project. We installed the cement footings for the basketball hoop and the retaining walls with 2″ overhangs.

The Finishing Touches

Last but not least was the new plant installation. We created  an intimate setting in the backyard by strategically planting trees and shrubs as a natural border to provide privacy for the back patio.

Per design, we used the original soil for the new plantings. However we enriched the soil with amendments including compost and root fertilizer for each plant to encourage growth and root development. We also dug water wells around each plant to allow better water absorption and prevent runoff. After we graded off all beds and defined the edges we installed the bark mulch.

The End Result: the Grand Entry

Our clients now have a welcoming grand entry for their home from every point of access: front walk, driveway, side walk and back door.

The original walk was hidden by large globe arborvitae which made it hard to distinguish where the front walk began.  The new walkway is more welcoming. It naturally meanders through a new garden bed with plantings that have seasonal interest and varying bloom times. The newly enlarged patio space in the backyard is now more private and functional to accommodate entertaining a large group of friends and family. Our Wenham family couldn’t be happier with the end result!

If you have an entry way that isn’t quite welcoming, our Cole team will be happy to work with your family to design a grand entry that works for you.

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Our Hamilton client wanted a warm and welcoming walkway for their home. Originally they had and old lackluster clay brick pathway that was buckling and in need of repair. They wanted a new upgrade, but they were concerned about preexisting conditions in the layout of their land. First of all, there were flooding issues in front of the house, so we had to regrade the area. There was a brand new septic system and we had to relocate three large trees growing on top of underground utilities. Needless to say, we had to be very careful throughout the entire excavation process.

Our Approach to the New Walkway

The old walkway was just a straight path from the door to the driveway. Our client’s favorite spot on their property is the front entry because of the beautiful sunrise on that side of the house. At their request, we designed an inviting area where they could sit and enjoy morning coffee. The walkway is winding and there is a spacious seating area to accommodate early risers.

The Process

We removed old clay brick and upgraded to Techo Bloc Blu Shale 60 mm with 6×6 onyx border. Techo Block stone is known for its durability over natural stone. You don’t have to worry about our harsh winters –Techo Bloc can take straight salt and ice melt. You can use a shovel on it without scraping and it is guaranteed for life.

In order to move water from the front yard and eliminate flooding, we created a swale. We also installed a fair amount of low voltage landscape lights. At night time this place looks phenomenal, with the trees, the walkway, and the house all lit up.

It was fun seeing the transformation from start to finish in this project. Our client was especially pleased to have the water issues dissipate. From the colors of the stone to the curvature of the walkway and slope of the land, there was so much value added to the aesthetics of the property.

If you have a challenging issue for your landscape that needs some attention, one of our experts will be happy to design a clever solution that will add real value to your property. Contact Cole today for your free consultation.

 

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Our Approach

Instead of using traditional cobble we decided to do something a little different.  Therefore we installed a reclaimed Gloucester chunk stone for a classy old estate look.  The chunk stone planter edges complement the house as well as define the beds. The chunk stone edges also tie together nicely with the existing granite at the entry of the driveway.

The Plantings

Working with a few of their existing specimen plants such as Butterfly Bush and Endless Summer Blue Hydrangea, we added a stellar plant palate fit for the beach. We chose Lime Light Hydrangeas, classic white Beach Roses, Sedum, Lavender, Iberis, Dianthus, Alliums, and Morning Light Ornamental Grass and Fountain Grass.  We also installed Baby Blue Eyes Blue Spruce for privacy and a specimen Japanese Stewartia tree for its showy summer flowers and intense fall color.  For the final touch, we added a stone mulch to keep in context with the beach theme as well as  to prevent curious pups from digging in the garden!

If you need a fresh new look for your landscape and you don’t know where to begin, Cole design experts will be happy to come up with a plan that works for you. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

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Our Manchester-By-The Sea client was in desperate need of a patio makeover. Their original walkway and patio consisted of rough cobble. The area was showing its age and it was time for an upgrade. For instance, the walking surface was very uneven. Some areas of the masonry were deteriorating. Since they were planning an addition of a new three season room, it was obvious that the old patio had to go.

Prepping for the Patio Makeover

First we had to remove all of the old cobble and stone walls to make room for the addition.

The Plan

Our client wanted a fresh new look that would complement their new addition. From a design standpoint, we wanted the patio makeover to seamlessly blend in with its surroundings. Therefore, we used natural stone for all surfaces. First we laid bluestone for the patio and walkways – the back patio includes a reclaimed granite inlay. The natural colors in the bluestone reflect hues of the sky and the earth. Then we used granite for the steps, walls and caps. The durability of granite will stand the test of time.

The Execution

Once the new hardscape was set in place, it was time get to work on the softscape to complete our project. In addition to installing new plants, we relocated a Japanese stewartia from the corner of the house to the corner of the driveway. This proved to be quite a task, but our skilled crew got it done in no time at all. Our plantings include: white shrub roses, Russian sage, butterfly bushes, endless summer hydrangeas, overdam grasses, deutzia, geranium, dianthus and ground cover sedum.

If you have an area of you landscape that could use a little TLC and you don’t know where to begin, Cole design experts can lead you in the right direction. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.

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Original Site Assessment

Site Work Performed

Paver Patio Installation

The Cole crew installed 200 SF of Almond Grove square Antara pavers. Its curved border complements features of the existing landscape and flows perfectly with both entryways that lead into the home. We removed a small wall and replaced it with cobblestone as a raised bed. Then we built three 5′ granite steps to replace the current steps. The finished patio has a tan inlay with a gray border.

Organic Finishing Touches

If you would like to see what a new Cole patio could do for your backyard, our outdoor living experts have the insight and knowledge to work within your existing parameters. Contact Cole Landscaping to help you explore the potential of your outdoor living space.

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The Plan

To begin the project, Cole professionals jack-hammered out the old cement stairs to make room for the new 8-foot-long split faced granite steps. With utmost precision, the Cole crew replaced nine 6” steps with eight 7” granite steps, therefore allowing the walkway to perfectly align with the new granite.

Next, Cole designed a natural stonewall veneer (to match the home’s front wall) using the existing retaining wall as its base. Our team covered the dull, cement wall with Colonial Tan Mosaic. Colonial Tan is quartzite that consists of radiant brown, beige, tan, light gray, and other earth tones. Gold and silver speckles capture the essence and shine of natural sunlight. These earthy neutral colors match well in both modern and traditional designs, giving your project a fresh, unmistakable look. The stone is native to upstate Maine and is true veneer stone hand cut for a beautiful custom look.

The People for the Project

Ultimately, a project like this requires a landscape architect or a very capable design-build company that can provide construction drawings. By the same token, these professionals must know how the dimensions of each wall design change according to pressures caused by climatic extremes. The quality of labor is equally important. Therefore, Cole employs masons who master the art of manipulating stone. They understand the complexity of creating mosaic patterns required to build a natural stonewall. Mosaic pattern veneer consists of irregular pieces of natural stone for siding, facing, and cladding. The shapes consist primarily of triangles and stop sign shapes and the pattern is similar to the mosaic dimensions created from broken ice.

Building the Natural Stonewall

To construct the natural stonewall, first Cole cut the left side level to match right side with a demo saw. Next, our team installed a metal lathe throughout the complete veneer area. They secured it into concrete wall using self-tapping screws. To ensure that the new veneer isn’t compromised by the old stucco and adheres directly to the concrete wall, Cole applied a skim coat of cement between the two walls for its entire length. Furthermore, on top of the wall, Cole installed limestone caps to match the homeâ€s front wall. However, for a more polished look, Cole masons custom cut 16” wide limestone to accommodate a 2” overhang. In total, Cole installed 15 linear feet of corners and an area of 230 face feet of veneer. The end result is a beautiful stonewall running the length of the property that seamlessly blends into the surrounding landscape.

Are you considering a new natural stonewall somewhere on your property? If your grounds could use a professional “pick-me-up”, our designers will work with you to re-imagine the possibilities. Contact Cole Landscaping to learn more.

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