Crabtree snagged reclaimed oak remnants from another project and had them cut to seat height. Behind them, an existing cement-block wall was an eyesore till it was parged, a process that creates a textured, dimensional surface similar to stucco.
With the needs of his young family in mind, landscape architect Jordan Crabtree turned to his own backyard, located in Annapolis’ historic district. He and his wife had recently purchased their late-1700s abode, which “was a disaster when we moved in,” he recalls. Among the issues: a porous, granite-block foundation that caused frequent flooding.
While the home’s renovation was underway, 12 tons of soil were excavated or amended from the site to create room for drainage that would flow into groundwater. Crabtree established an infiltration basin six feet underground that catches runoff. He then designed a minimalist oasis for kids and adults alike, with room for both play and relaxation. “We needed to create a space to be with our family,” he says. “We love it.”
andscape Architecture: Jordan Loch Crabtree, PLA, ASLA, Loch Collective, Annapolis, Maryland. Landscape Contractor: Solidago Landscapes, LLC, Church Hill, Maryland. Lighting/Irrigation: Terra Nova Design, Crofton, Maryland.