Timeless Backyard

Our clients wanted to replace their old backyard deck with something more substantial and permanent. Being in an older part of Holland’s south side, the clients also wanted to use materials that would be timeless, long-lasting, and work with the house’s existing architecture. One of the challenges was to work with the large, oversized slab of concrete original that was attached to the house foundation, covered by the old dilapidated deck.

Rather than attempt to remove the concrete, we decided to embrace it and add to it to create a base for our paver patio immediately off the rear sliding door. We recommended using clay pavers to match the existing front walkway.

The upper terrace steps down to a cut bluestone patio below that is anchored by a large brick masonry fireplace. As large trees were also an important feature to preserve, we orientated the fireplace on an angle to create a more dynamic viewing experience from the house while preserving tree roots as much as possible. Plantings and exterior lighting took the space steps further into a multi-level and functional experience for our clients and their guests to enjoy for years to come.