James and Lynn Foster

Working in a rare and enviable partnership with an artistically savvy owner and an extensive crew of skilled tradesmen, the goal of the landscape architect was to create a landscape that flows seamlessly and uncharacteristically from the inside out. The challenge was to satisfy the existing mindset of owners, who are knowledgeable and appreciative of all of the arts, on a relatively small site.

The owners required visual access to the landscape from anywhere in the house. To impart the out-of-doors and thus literally surround themselves with nature, a number of views to the landscape were already carefully planned using glass doors and strategically placed windows. One example was the living room, composed of three floor-to-ceiling glass panels, which would face a rear garden. An overall requisite was that all exterior spaces were to be functional, visible, and complimentary to the neighboring properties while concealing or diminishing any undesirable aspects of the property. 

Other than a few existing trees, the site was virtually a clean slate. The design team created an indirect approach to the house, leading the visitor past a cut stone water feature flowing to a small grotto, winding through an enclosed gated area and emerging into a small, open courtyard. Using five different paving types, screen walls, and intricate plantings, everything compliments the owner’s naturalistic decorating motif and magnificent collection of artwork inside and out.    

The design team fostered a spirit of cooperation and the project hit its mark, successfully mingling the tastes and sensibilities of all parties.