THEN

NOW

Dilapidated flagstone was laid piecemeal in the back and side yards, flanked by straggly garden plots that wouldn’t grow due to too much shade and the obstructive root system of a nearby tree.

A crisp, new flagstone patio makes the backyard more usable. The side yard was regraded with a layer of soil that allowed grass and shrubbery to take root.

The backyard had no style and was bordered by a prominent, unattractive wooden fence. There was no place to gather or entertain.

Straight angles and neat beds create a formal aesthetic. The fence is painted gray to blend with the stone; a stone fireplace provides a focal point. The patio accommodates both lounging and dining areas.

There were no plantings to speak of because of the shade.

Shade-loving European hornbeam, boxwood, hydrangea and hosta bloom in different seasons, creating year-round interest.