Landscaping Project Story: Illuminated Spaces
Color, Sound and Light in Balance
Long Island Nursery & Landscape Association 2024/25 Gold Award Winner
BEFORE
AFTER
GOALS
Transform a standard size back yard into a multifunctional, visually engaging outdoor living space that could be enjoyed by the entire family. This design emphasizes both accessibility and safety, integrating thoughtful features to accommodate the needs of a family member with impaired vision. The challenge was to strike a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetics, ensuring that the space would meet both recreational and practical needs while fostering a safe environment.
Budget: $200,000+
Services
- Drainage & Re-Grading
- Pool & Patio Installation
- Fire Pit Installation
- Fill-in Plantings
- Outdoor Kitchen
APPROACH
The project was a collaborative effort involving the designer, client, production staff, and subcontractors. The primary goal was to create a cohesive plan that incorporated the client’s vision and requirements, including a pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, water feature, fire pit, and designated areas for dining and lounging.
A standout feature was the integration of the fire pit into the pool. This unique combination created a dramatic focal point, blending fire and water to generate a dynamic atmosphere. The fire pit, inset into the pool, allowed flames to rise above the water’s surface, enhancing the visual impact with the pool’s lighting.
The fire pit also served a practical purpose for a family member with impaired vision. The combination of fire and the calming sound of water provided visual and auditory cues aiding navigation. Spillways from both the fire pit and spa added a soothing sound, supporting safe navigation.
Accessibility was key in many design decisions. Pre-existing steps were widened for enhanced functionality and safety, with integrated lighting to improve visibility at night. Pool and spa lighting also enhanced safety and created an inviting evening atmosphere.
The project faced spatial constraints, including a strict 10′ village setback and a small yard size. Thoughtful planning maximized the limited space with compact, efficient designs for the outdoor kitchen and dining area. Multifunctional design elements, such as the fire pit inset into the pool, saved space while adding visual appeal. Organic shapes for the pool, spa, and fire pit softened the space, ensuring the yard felt open and dynamic.
Proper drainage was also crucial. A drywell system managed water flow, ensuring excess water was absorbed into the ground. Throughout the design process, attention to detail was paramount, creating an inclusive and accessible environment that aligned with the family’s needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.
PLANTING COMPONENTS
- Bright and colorful plant material to improve visibility while adding vibrancy to the design
- Perennials such as Hosta ‘Sum & Substance’, Hemerocallis ‘Happy Returns’, Lobelia cardinalis, and Chelone ‘Hot Lips’, along with deciduous shrubs like Hypericum ‘Hidcote’ and Spirea ‘Little Princess’ provide dynamic hues and contrasting colors
- Magnolia grandiflora adds a layer of fragrance to the sensory experience
RESULT
The final design successfully overcame the challenges of limited space and safety concerns, resulting in a vibrant, functional, and sensory-rich outdoor retreat. This transformation has not only created a visually appealing and safe space for the family but is a welcoming environment that enhances the family’s lifestyle and will be enjoyed by everyone.
WHAT THE CLIENT SAID
“We had a dream of our backyard becoming a small paradise, the kind of paradise you only visit on vacation. We really did not think this was even possible until Craig and the amazing team from Hicks made the vision a reality. It all began with a meeting with Craig who listened to our vision and everything we hoped it could include. Craig took his creativity, extensive knowledge, and his passion for what he does and returned with a well-planned and detailed design- there was our dream on paper. Craig managed the complex project, and it was with his confidence and obvious dedication that we felt we were in good hands throughout the process… they went above and beyond until the last finishing touches. We are so thankful to all who worked on our project as we now enjoy a slice of paradise in our own backyard!”
– Marissa T.
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Here's How:
1. Fill out the inquiry form on this page and we will contact you within 48 hours.
2. You can also call 516-334-0068 to speak with a member of our staff.
3. If you're planning to visit Hicks Nurseries, you can stop by the Nursery Help Center in the tree & shrub yard and get the process started there. Open during regular store hours.
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