Green Jay Landscape Design

Green Jay Landscape Design

(914) 560-6570

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Backyard Landscape Design

Creative landscape design and development can improve your life and lifestyle. Winter and early spring is an ideal time to begin the process of envisioning and activating your backyard ideas; such as plans to create, design, develop, install and construct a new landscape or renovate an old and tired landscape. Most of what we do as landscape design professionals (see American Society of Landscape Architects) qualifies as ‘Green’ on some level (see Sustainable Sites Initiative). We are often presented with challenges involving unattractive views, non-functioning or low functioning spaces for dining, entertaining or playing. Sometimes we need to generate fresh, creative ideas for a landscape in need of improvement because it is unusable or unstable due to physical characteristics such as steep slopes, poorly drained wet areas, etc.

Landscape Design Begins with Proper Site Analysis

Just as developing a program for managing an organic lawn or landscape starts out with real information, professional landscape design starts out with proper site analysis.

For soil testing, see Soil Foodweb Labs or Cornell Cooperative Extension.

For professional landscaping, see Association of Professional Landscape Designers

These essential first steps inform the clients and the designer as to the fixed physical features and characteristics. This will determine the unique factors involved in developing the landscape design master-plan, ideally suited to the needs and desires of the client/users. This may include, but is not limited to, amount of sunlight affecting plant growth and selection (see USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service), the hydrology (wet/dry), soil conditions etc..

Much of this information is verifiable scientific fact and field observations. Much of the remaining information is primarily subjective based upon the intentions to develop a property or site for specific land use.

For more info on low impact landscape design and construction, see Low Impact Development Center or Urban Design Tools.

Each Landscaping Project is Unique

Each and every backyard has unique, one of a kind aspects. Some are more or less challenged by views or landscape features surrounding and affecting the landscape we are working to improve. Too often we are brought to a project after significant alterations and ‘improvements’ are made. This sometimes restricts our creativity and ability to alter and improve the site due to a limitation of resources and access.

Jay Archer, President

914-560-6570

jay@greenjaylandscaping.co

Increasing Enjoyment and Appreciation for the Environment

This next landscape challenge in Westchester County involved producing a master-plan for the entire residential home/property (front, side and rear). The process of developing the plan based on information and observations acquired by site analysis led to this landscape construction project. It completely satisfied the clients tastes and sensibilities by enhancing their lifestyle with an increased enjoyment and appreciation of the outdoor environment.

In addition to expanding the swimming pool patio/summer recreation area within the fenced area, we constructed planting beds as well as walkways connecting the different garden rooms and spaces. This contributed to a better flow and increased everyday use. Good landscape development, especially paying attention to the concepts of sustainability and green development, requires allowing for time, energy and resources to be dedicated to accomplishing the goal.

 

A Secret Tai Chi Garden Awaiting Discovery

The existing landscape was very attractive, yet it had some drainage and soil issues. It simply did not sing! Increased curb appeal was realized by establishing perennial flower beds with continuous blooms along the circular driveway. Spring flowering trees were added to the front landscape, further adding to the dramatic effect while giving a layered, mature look to the front yard landscape.

One of the most interesting design features is an enclosed meditation garden. Called the Tai Chi Garden, this awesome, very cool space is defined and highlighted by mulched/wood chipped paths in the shape of the Yin and Yang symbol.

The paths snake through the garden with quiet sitting areas evoking a Japanese cup garden. The raised beds and berms/terraforms create a sense of mystery with a soothing planting of ferns, ground covers and flowering shrubs. This hidden garden is a special treasure which can only be discovered by a deliberate journey through a gated arbor with decorative fence. The overall composition is stunning, yet understated. This is truly an example of a landscape for all seasons and for all generations of the family to enjoy.

It’s never too early to consider planning and developing a landscape plan for your front or backyard. Make a wish list! Start the journey to the landscape of your dreams and desires today!

Jay Archer, President

914-560-6570

jay@greenjaylandscapedesign.com

Transforming What You Have Into What You Want

This landscape design challenge was exemplified by a backyard project along the Hudson River. When we arrived on the scene, a large part of the backyard (about 30%) was paved, impervious asphalt driveway.

Above: BEFORE PHOTO.

 

Two large storm drain/catch basins were installed directing storm water off site, down slope. Belgium block, stone curbing was installed to contain and direct water to the conventional drainage system. Additionally a white vinyl fence was installed around the perimeter for containment and screening. Of course if that weren’t enough, there was the ubiquitous outdoor shed for storage placed directly in line of site with the street/driveway entrance. In an ideal world, this would not exist without an overall plan and vision for developing the property/landscape. Very often this is the kind of hardscape improvement which uses up much of the budget and available resources before a proper plan is developed. So anyway…work with what you have!

HIDING THE PRESENCE OF ADJACENT EYESORES

At least the above ground swimming pool was removed before we started, although the fill/topsoil used to regrade and establish a lawn, which was later proposed to be removed, was kind of unnecessary. The proposed design, one of many versions, included creating a courtyard/patio for relaxing and entertaining. The design intention was to develop an outdoor living space which was both intimately serene and inviting as well positively energized to neutralize the effect of the powerful water treatment plant between the backyard and the river. This would be achieved with a combination of trees, flowering shrubs and perennial beds integrated with a beautiful natural stone patio/walk.

 

We would construct/build this stone patio/walk on a gravel base with polymetric sand joints to allow for storm water infiltration. Within the garden room/space, we included and placed earth elements intended for visual as well as sensory focus and enjoyment/appreciation (see Gardening with Feng Shui Principles or Love to Know How: Feng Shui) which utilize the basic principals of Feng Shui (the Art of Placement) in our landscape design practice. These elements/features include a fire pit (could be gas or wood), a fountain/water feature, a wooden arbor/gate and a stone bench.

Not represented in this version/design are; a green-roof to complete the screening of the water treatment plant, painted murals on the fence depicting birds and vines, mirrors placed behind plants in the landscape to reflect the sky, clouds, flowers and birds and butterflies we would be inviting in by plant selection (for ideas see Westchester Community College)

If the landscape is designed with love and care, attention to detail and a feeling for health, well-being and beauty, it will be everything we could hope for in home improvement and lifestyle enhancement.

Jay Archer, President

914-560-6570

jay@greenjaylandscapedesign.com

 

EVALUATING THE CONDITION OF ADJACENT TREES

In our Fairfield County environment, trees are also essential for life. They are important for water quality, soil stabilization, cleaning our air and producing oxygen as well as cooling, providing shade and necessary habitat for wildlife and beneficial insects. By nature, the east coast ecosystems are predominantly forest systems and as such, are fungal based. Trees are valuable and important in every stage of their life cycles. Young trees provide food and shelter while mature trees provide wood products etc.. Even dead and dying trees contribute to the ecology of our environment.

In our Fairfield County residential home landscapes we have many factors to consider. A simple driveway project can become an example. A very large mature maple tree, 80’ tall with an extensive root system extending across the driveway, was in dubious condition. The homeowner had several tree companies offered a variety of opinions on whether the tree should be removed, cabled or pruned. We suggested calling in a consulting arborist for a more objective view. Since current standards observed in Fairfield County for evaluating trees prohibit labeling/determining a tree hazardous, we can only go by recommendations referring to imminent failure (see International Society of Arboriculture or Tree Care Industry Association for Arboricultural standards).

In this case we observed a squirrel coming and going from a cavity in the tree at 15’ in height. This led us to assume a likelihood that the tree could be hollow. Because of the disposition and proximity of the tree ( right next to the driveway, within 50’ of and leaning towards the house) we recommended removal. Upon inspection of the down tree it was obvious it was completely hollow for a significant length of the trunk diameter. This is a shinning example of how a proper and complete site analysis and evaluation conducted by a professional team can enable the landscape design/build contractor to produce the best, most efficient results. This is a model of sustainable property management in Fairfield County, CT.

Jay Archer, President

914-560-6570

jay@greenjaylandscapedesign.com

Going organic with a green landscape will absolutely improve the health and quality of your landscape environment and potentially your health as well. Why not make up your mind to make a change today for a more beautiful, healthier landscape today? Increasing biodiversity with the addition of native plants and trees will help you transition to an organic garden or green landscape significantly easier. Designing and planting that encourages beneficial insect species is essential to success in ecological landscape development.

There are many excellent resources at your disposable, both web based national organizations as well as local groups and organizations who are passionate about ecological landscape design, nature, ecology and resource conservation. We especially like the Ecological Landscape Alliance and Association of Professional Landscape Designers nationally. Locally, we also have excellent resources in The Garden Education Center of Greenwich and Greenwich Audubon. Right over the border in neighboring in NY there’s the Westchester Native Plant Center with very cool demonstration gardens, especially the rain garden which I designed and helped build. Another great resource is New York Botanical Garden.

Sometimes a simple project requires more thought, communication and coordination than you would think, at first glance.

Is this going to be the year you plan on enjoying your beautiful, healthy Green landscape? Contact us today and let us help you develop a plan for reimagining a green landscape design for your property. Whether your dreams and desires include a water feature or expanded stone patio with an outdoor kitchen or incorporating vegetables and herbs as part of your new edible landscape, we can help turn your dreams and desires into reality. Landscape improvements can have a profound effect on our lifestyle and well being. The sooner you engage a plan, the sooner you will be realizing the benefits and rewards. Everything takes time and resources. Identifying what you like and don’t like is a start. What moves you…what makes you happy?

Is there something missing or something unattractive about your landscape that makes you frown? Put a smile on your landscape and a smile in your heart! Don’t you think you deserve something better from your life and landscape? Life is too short! It goes by too fast! Why not do something to make it better! Feel better! Make a change for the better! How about health..your health…your children’s health…the health of your home and landscape environment? Too many of our communities are plagued by symptoms of environmental and human illness today. In previous generations, gluten intolerance, autism and many forms of cancer were much more uncommon, if not rare…what has changed?

Executing exceptional landscape design construction projects requires careful resource management. This extends from the natural resources on site (i.e. water, soil, plants, infrastructure) as well as human and financial resources.

Jay Archer, President

914-560-6570

jay@greenjaylandscapedesign.com

Now is the ideal time to analyze and evaluate the appearance and health of your landscape environment in Fairfield County. What kind of shape are your trees in? How would adding a spring flowering tree affect your mood? Check out Garden Listings or Garden Guides for some landscape ideas.

GRAVEL DRIVEWAYS: A BIG STEP TOWARD GOING GREEN.

One of the principal concepts of green landscaping is reducing impervious space to increase infiltration of storm water. Old asphalt driveways are no longer desirable or preferred for our landscape environment. Especially true after they have been repeatedly topped and resurfaced. Installing a gravel driveway is a great opportunity to start over and Go Green!

REMOVING OLD ASPHALT

Asphalt should be removed and recycled at an approved facility in Fairfield County.

SELECTING THE GRAVEL

A proper base of course gravel and item #4 should be laid as base material compacted at 2” intervals. This will allow for optimum drainage and performance. In this case a 3/8” native gravel (locally sourced) was selected from samples provided to the client for a final surface/appearance.

This material and construction method meets with current sustainability standards observed in Fairfield County (Sustainable Site Initiative). This is a component of green design and development. Looking at the big picture we may draw on other valuable resources such as Low Impact Development or the NY State Stormwater Management Design Manual.

 

 

 

MAINTAINING YOUR GRAVEL DRIVEWAY

It is important to remember that all landscape features including driveways require maintenance. In the case of gravel driveways, care should be taken during snow plowing so as not to greatly disturb the gravel surface. There should be a maintenance/management plan and budget that allows for refurbishment including additional gravel and labor to spread and grade.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Water is one of the most essential elements to life on earth. T. Boone Pickens in the NY Times was quoted as saying “wars in the future will be fought not over oil but over water.” Drinking water is precious and in danger. In the east, we take an abundance of fresh drinking water for granted. What if it changes? Maybe it has already begun. We should do everything possible in our sustainable landscape design and management practices to conserve and preserve our water resources in Fairfield County.

Jay Archer, President

914-560-6570

jay@greenjaylandscapedesign.com