#belgard hardscapes outdoor design

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Front Yard Porch in Birmingham

Large minimalist concrete paver wood railing porch idea with a roof extension

[proficientpatiosbackyarddesigns]

Proficient Patios & Backyard Designs

Proficient Patios & Backyard Designs

Outdoor living supplier and contractor, everything from patio covers to adjustable covers to sunrooms, hardscapes and landscaping, fire/water features, outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, and outdoor furniture.

ABOUT PROFICIENT PATIOS & BACKYARD DESIGNS

Patio Enclosure Supplier

Proficient Patios is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured contractor specializing in the backyard construction business since 2006. We began as a patio cover contractor and eventually expanded into the other backyard trades when we noticed the need from our homeowners to have just one contractor in charge of their full project.

​Since our early beginnings, Proficient Patios has excelled in the industry. We have attained some of the following achievements: Voted “Best of Las Vegas Patio Builders” from 08’-23’ by the Las Vegas community, earning a Silver place in best landscape installer and Gold place in Outdoor Kitchen Installer.  “Voted #1 Customer Service by Talk of the Town” for 3 years in a row, #1 Platinum dealer with the Alumawood Manufacturer, and voted “Yard of the Month for September 2012” by SNWA.

Best of the Best

Hardscape Contractor

​We hold the highest certifications in paver and retaining wall installations. We are the West Coast design center for Belgard Pavers & Hardscapes and offer the largest Alumawood Patio Covers showroom in Las Vegas. Plus, we have maintained an “A class rating” with the Better Business Bureau and the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce.

Proficient Patios motto is to provide quality work, professionalism, and to excel in our customer service. We stand behind our work and our reputation is very important to us. Our job is not complete until our customers are fully satisfied, and we will go over and beyond to attain satisfaction from each and every client. This explains why referrals have become such a large component of our business.

We are not like other contractors that have to subcontract out different trades. We hold six different licenses which cover all our backyard work: general contracting, patio cover/awnings, landscaping, concrete, and stucco license. We have in-house employees with extensive backgrounds in each and every trade. We are truly a one-stop-shop. You will be hiring one contractor/designer to complete your job from start to finish. Since we do not subtract work out, you can rest assured the quality of the work will be to the highest level. All of our employees have been personally trained by our owners and hold proper certifications where required.

If you are interested in joining our team, click here.

contact us

Proficient Patios & Backyard Designs https://proficientpatios.com/ 3310 S Valley View Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89102 PHONE: (702) 254-6179

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Commercial Landscaping Edmonton

We specialize in commercial landscaping design, maintenance and construction in Edmonton.  Our professional will ensure your property looks great for every time. We are proud to offer our commercial customers the top quality and value in commercial landscaping services.

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Belgard Product Catalog 2019

A complete overhaul of the Belgard product catalog with a design forward aesthetic that maximized the soft launch of the company’s new Collections.

Belgard, the #1 hardscape brand in North America, challenged our in-house design team with the task of re-inventing their product catalog for 2019. As Art Director on the project the only direction I was given from leadership was  “don’t just think outside the box, throw away the box.”

By introducing a new, 10″ x 10″ square format, we were able to compete with larger scale catalogs from our competitors for a price our sales teams could get behind. The company also decided to change the organization of their product offering from sorting by application to a brand new Collections format, a move that leadership assured would make up selling easier for the contractor and dealer partners and creating a cohesive design aesthetic easier for the homeowner. 

I worked closely with the product manager, helping to sort our unruly product offering into collections delineated by texture, providing name options which we ultimately chosen for three our of the six collections and helped define the look and aesthetic that would allow the homeowner to instantly know what style each collection represented. 

For the collection breaker pages, I wanted to evoke a sense of a mood board, using stock photography of outdoor architectural elements as well as interior design cues to help tell each collection’s story. 

I developed the Style section (Timeless and Trending) focusing in on three forecasted trends for the building industry and bring Belgard to the table as a brand that leads not just in sales but in influence and style. I wrote all of the headlines and the majority of the copy throughout the piece as well as developed a detailed, flexible template for our team of 7 designers to build out their individually assigned regional versions of which there are 19.

I also helped art direct the lifestyle photoshoot on-location in Nashville, working with our photographer and agency partners for shots to be used on breaker pages and throughout the inspiration section.

[johnfrenchlandscapes]

What is Hardscaping?

Written by Terri Williams and published on https://www.realtor.com/.

Landscaping, plantscaping, softscaping, hardscaping….suddenly everywhere you look, new terms and trends are popping up! But what do these words really mean for your yard at home? 

Landscaping, of course, is the sum total of every action taken to improve the look and ambiance of a piece of land. Plantscaping takes some of that lovely greenery indoors in the form of strategically-placed potted plants. Softscaping refers to the placement of greenery outdoors. And finally, hardscaping is the underlying permanent or semi-permanent structure that holds the softscaping in place. Clear as mud? Don’t worry – this is our complete guide for everything you need to know about hardscaping your home or business. 

What Is Hardscaping? The Landscaping Element Every Gorgeous Yard Needs

Looking to make your outdoor area more livable? Consider adding a hardscape feature to complement your plants and flowers. A decked-out backyard can give a big boost to your property’s value, and hardscaping can be a central part of this. So what is hardscaping and how much should you budget to make it into a reality for your home? Read on.

What is hardscaping?

Your home’s outdoor spaces consist of hardscapes and softscapes.

“While softscapes are your plants and living elements, hardscaping encompasses the nonliving elements of landscaping—like a paver patio, stone wall, or a gazebo,” says Joe Raboine, director of residential hardscapes at Belgard, which makes residential and commercial products.

Hardscaping can increase the functionality of your outdoor space and can be designed to match your preferred style: traditional, modern, rustic, you name it.

“Using materials such as wood, stone, metal, and concrete, hardscapes can also add physical boundaries and dimension to your yard,” says Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

Types of hardscaping

With a nearly endless list of hardscaping features available, we asked our experts to highlight some of the most popular projects among homeowners.

Many people prefer patios and decks since they can expand a home’s living space, Henriksen says. “Fire features such as fireplaces or fire pits are also among the most common trends in outdoor living as they offer a place to gather and socialize.”

“Garden walls, planting beds, large boulders, stone edging, accent stones, pillars or columns, seat walls, and stepping stones are examples of in-demand features,” says Al Ferrante, owner of Century Building Materials, in Lindenhurst, NY.

In fact, you may even have a hardscape on your property and not even know it! Ferrante says the concrete or stone steps around your doorway could be considered hardscape.

Water hardscape features

Homeowners also like water hardscape features because they offer several advantages.

“In addition to being aesthetically appealing, they are functional for masking traffic noises and for providing additional privacy to your own space,” says Raboine. The sound of running water is also relaxing for most folks.

Some examples of water hardscape features are “waterfalls, fountains, ponds, stream bed,” Ferrante says. These can range from a simple accent to an elaborate focal point.

“The combination of dry and water hardscapes in a yard can improve the livability and beauty, such as adding the classic pairing of a pool and patio,” Henriksen explains.

Hardscaping trends

If you’re looking to stay on the cutting edge of design—or are considering selling your home in the near future—consider these hot hardscaping trends.

Mix and match: “Mixing materials, textures, and colors in a well-designed space can create eye-popping focal points and designs,” say Raboine. For example, use a different color hardscape for your patio border. This helps define the space.

Sleek and modern: Modern, linear designs are increasing in popularity. “Porcelain pavers, for example, are ideal for a contemporary design and are incredibly durable, frost-resistant, skid-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to clean,” Raboine says.

Multipurpose walls: Retaining walls can also be used as benches for seating. Or you can build raised planters or garden beds into the walls to grow herbs and vegetables.

Approximate costs

As with any type of home improvement project, costs vary depending on the size and complexity of the hardscaping, as well as the materials used.

As a general rule, Henricksen says, you can expect to pay $7 to $22 per square foot for hardscaping.

“For example, the installation of a 10-foot flagstone patio with a natural stone gas-burner fire feature will generally cost around $6,000,” she says.

Raboine estimates the following costs for other hardscaping projects:

Paving a patio: $900 to $1,000

Retaining wall: $3,000 to $8,000

Patio/eating area: $1,000 to $2,000

Fire pit: $300 to $1,500

Pool deck: $3,000 to $12,000

Outdoor kitchen: $4,000 to $20,000

Original post here https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/what-is-hardscaping/.

The post What is Hardscaping? appeared first on John French Landscapes.

John French Landscapes

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20 Reasons You Need To Stop Stressing About Concrete Walkways Kitchener

Accentuate your spaces! See how decorative concrete stands up in opposition to different hardscape and flooring alternatives!

We had a demo of our enclosed patio with a cracked concrete Basis which was replaced by a beautiful new patio roof with recessed lights and enthusiasts. The job arrived out a lot better than we envisioned so we decided to permit Pure Property Reworking to continue with landscaping for the whole again property. We experienced some concept of what we wanted but didn't have a chance to see the way Emil does in the area of architecture and exterior style and design. In order to work with a person that values marriage around trying to generate a sale and a genuine desire for that well-currently being of your family and residential then I hugely endorse Emil. I've experienced my solitary family members residence for over 10 decades now and satisfied lots of Venture Administrators from unique design businesses but none have arrive close to Emil from Pure House Remodeling. We've not just located a completely new friend but a business that we are going to go on to utilize for all of our design and home advancement needs going forward.

Pricing differs by spot, obviously, but for tough estimating of concrete walkway cost, Specialist Work vary from about $six to upwards of $twelve for each sq. foot. Because the cost on the concrete by itself is pretty frequent, what actually provides on the cost may be the complete.

The Mediterranean Influence A pleasant alfresco structure by Ancient Surfaces generates a seductive Mediterranean vibe Within this outdoor Place which is highlighted by a grape arbor pathway that leads to an open up courtyard of crushed stone and Oolitic Limestone foundation slabs.

Remember to overview our website and when for many purpose you don't discover the hand carved stone or marble products and solutions that you are looking for, basically forward your photos or types with your dimensions and we will hand-carve them towards your measurement and shade specs at a hugely competitive cost.

When mixing the concrete, the installer adds a powdered pigment that generates the base shade. The powdered pigment will often dry to a darker color. Installers also can include an accent colour throughout the mixing approach that mimics the varied shades found in marble, brick and also other supplies.

Crushed Rock and Redwood Two diverse model walkways make a putting distinction Within this landscape style by Luciole Style and design. The ground path is crushed rock more than a layer of weed barrier fabric.

After interviewing numerous contractors, I hired Bruce. I desired to employ a contractor that was skillful in laying cement patios and that patio would previous For a long time to come. Bruce exceeded my anticipations. He was normally promptly, straightforward to speak to, offered ideas that Increased the finale glance with the patio from regular to breathtaking.

Ramps is often integrated in the landscape. Stair move landscaping alongside the ramp and plant flowering shrubs together with floor addresses to make it unobtrusive.

Don’t Permit your remodeling funds go in excess of-board by concealed surprises – realize what the typical set up costs for Stamped Concrete Walkways is inside your zip code by using our helpful calculator.

Quantities revealed in italicized text are for goods outlined in currency besides U.S. pounds and therefore are approximate conversions to U.S. bucks primarily based on Bloomberg's conversion rates. For Newer exchange costs, be sure to make use of the Universal Forex Converter

Belgard gives equally present-day and typical designs of fire pit kits to complement the architectural look of any home.

A stamped concrete walkway should overcome, and the procedure could take a number of times or longer depending on the climatic conditions. The walkway should not be utilized right up until the concrete has entirely cured. At some point all through its life time, a stamped concrete walkway will build cracks.

Accentuate your spaces! See how attractive concrete stands up towards substitute hardscape and flooring options!

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Building a Retaining Wall in Your Yard? 5 Mistakes That Could Cause a Collapse

fotolinchen/iStock

A retaining wall is a practical outdoor feature that can help keep your yard in top form, but it’s often overlooked—or misunderstood. in its most basic form, it’s a structure that holds soil in place on a slope, and it’s built of modest materials, such as concrete, treated timber, or boulders.

But this is not a hardscaping project to be taken lightly. If not thoroughly planned or properly executed, retaining walls can be a disaster waiting to happen. Any mistakes could cause them to crack—or, gulp collapse—entirely.

“We estimate the average cost to build a retaining wall is around $5,000, so mistakes don’t come cheap,” says Dan DiClerico, a home expert at HomeAdvisor.

Nathan Outlaw, president of Onvico, a construction company in Thomasville, GA, says the biggest mistake that homeowners make is thinking that DIYing a retaining wall is a good idea. Spoiler alert: It’s usually not! “The best thing a homeowner can do is hire a structural engineer to design the wall so it can be built properly and there is some liability shift if it has issues,” he says.

However, if you’re confident in your skills to tackle this project, these are the mistakes you should avoid when building a retaining wall

1. Choosing the wrong material

The good news is that retaining walls can be built with a variety of materials. However, that’s also the bad news if you make the wrong choice. Cinder blocks, poured concrete, wood, and rubble stone are some of the most commonly used options. But you must choose the right material for the climate you live in. For example, if you live in a moist or rainy area and use wood for your wall, termites and wood rot will reduce the wall’s lifespan. “Poured concrete, meanwhile, will be susceptible to cracking in climates with severe temperature swings,” DiClerico says.

2. Failing to provide adequate drainage

Did you know that neglecting to address water issues is the No. 1 cause of retaining wall problems? Joe Raboine, director of residential hardscapes at Belgard, says the most critical detail to ensure is that the wall drains properly, since both the surface water and groundwater can build up behind it.

“Water that pools on or behind your retaining wall can weaken it, particularly if it freezes and thaws,” says Joe Palumbo, president of Lakeshore Guys in Forest Lake, MN. “Pooling water can also erode or weaken the soil around the retaining wall.”

To provide drainage, Raboine says you can install a layer of clear backfill gravel and a perforated drain pipe.

3. Putting too much weight behind the wall

The higher your wall, the more weight it will usually have to withstand, and many states will require you to get a building permit and the services of an engineer if the wall is taller than 4 feet. “But even shorter walls could start to lean if they’re not sufficiently reinforced,” DiClerico warns. “This usually involves extending the footing, the reinforced concrete at the base of the wall that serves as the main support.” You might also need to install anchors or tiebacks for added support.

4. Tackling too much wall on your own

When DIYing a retaining wall, you need to realistically evaluate your abilities. “If it’s a very simple structure, say creating a raised, foot-high border in the yard out of reclaimed railroad tiles, that’s doable,” DiClerico says. But if it gets any more complicated than that, he recommends punting to the professionals. “We hear too many stories of pros getting called in to clean up the work of overly ambitious DIYers.” While the average repair cost is in the $600 range, depending on your mistake, DiClerico says the repairs could be thousands of dollars. Bummer.

5. Not doing maintenance

A retaining wall is not a “Set it and forget it” project; it’s a structure you’ll need to inspect regularly. “Check for low spots behind the wall where soil may have settled,” DiClerico says. “They’ll need to be back-filled to prevent water from pooling and putting extra pressure on the structure.” And if you have any weeds, he says you’ll need to pull them out, since over time, their roots can compromise the wall. “Finally, be on the lookout for bulging on the wall or cracking—sure signs of imminent failure.”

The post Building a Retaining Wall in Your Yard? 5 Mistakes That Could Cause a Collapse appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

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Garden Paving Stones

Contents

Pavers pool deck

3 feet long. “homeowners typically

Abbotsford concrete products

Designed path- concrete sleepers

Facing zoning restrictions

Driveway Pavement Repair Learn how to repair Asphalt driveways or blacktop driveway repair with Sakrete. We offer various products for best driveway crack filler, and blacktop repair. EZ

Interlocking Paving Stone Pool Decks. Ask anyone with a pool deck made from our interlocking paving stones and you’ll discover a dozen new reasons why no other pool decking solution even comes close to a System pavers pool deck.

Block Paving Block Paving. Block paving is a common site throughout the UK, from the footpaths on the High Street to many domestic driveways. block pavers provide

We are fortunate to own a manual sod stripper of our very own, and it has gotten a great deal of use. Pavers on the right lead to a small patio adjacent to the back fence. Work continued into the fall …

… in. x 18 in. Concrete Tan Variegated Traditional Yorkstone Paver (pallet of 64 pieces) …. The 12 in. square patio stone is an easy landscape addition to a patio or pathway. It is also great for step stones in a garden or for a walkway. Outdoor …

Why choose Patios – Garden paving, Patio & Paving Slabs? … If you want to install a new patio, look no further than our range of natural stone paving slabs.

(PRLEAP.COM) TAMPA, BAY, Fla. – Bay Brick Pavers (BBP) of Tampa announces the grand opening of a new showroom in the Tampa Bay-area community of Land O’ Lakes. Unlike the usual warehouse-sized patio …

Residential Paving Companies … provides asphalt paving and consulting services in the United States. It offers asphalt, warm-mix asphalt asphalt company southern maryland, thin asphalt overlay, roller pave roller-compacted concrete, concrete, roads/highways,

Flooring for outdoor spaces can range from a mortared flagstone surface to a paver patio, but Anewalt sees a trend toward using durable pavers in larger sizes up to 3 feet long. “homeowners typically …

Driveway Sealing Harrisburg Pa The men offered to coat the driveway and when the work was completed, the resident was handed a bill for $2,350, police said. The home

Pulling the weeds that have sneaked through the narrow spaces between your garden-path or patio pavers can give you a real pain in the neck. Several strategies will minimize the time you spend on this …

Paving & Walling. … Create intriguing passages through to different parts of your garden or save wearing out the grass with easy to lay stepping stones …

Boston Region. Clarke Landscapes LLC Uses Estate Wall to Turn a Sloping Yard into a Luxurious, Party-Ready Patio in Farmington, CT; Modern Outdoor Kitchen and Patio by Hyde Park Landscape, Inc. in Gales Ferry, CT, Features Lineo Dimensional Stone Grill Island

Concrete Driveway Asheville EnnisArt installs designer colors and protective treatments for concrete floors, finished basements, radiant heated slabs, garages, patios, and … The original concrete floor in the

In the backyard of Janice and Tony Bruno, there’s a beige gravel path leading past a babbling fountain to a cozy patio. Butterfly pavers line a grassy garden and bird habitat, which gives way to a …

Feb 22, 2019 … Shop stones & pavers in the pavers & retaining walls section of Lowes.com. … Square Gray Concrete Patio Stone (Common: 12-in x; Actual: …

abbotsford concrete products Ltd. has been an innovative industry leader in the manufacturing of Interlocking Pavingstones and Segmental Retaining Wall Systems for more than two decades.

DEAR JESSICA: About 40 years ago, my husband put in a brick patio, in sand, in our backyard, using 900 bricks. We had eight children, and our yard was the neighborhood play yard. Now we have weeds …

Paving Stones, Landscape Walls & Backyard Hardscapes From eye-catching driveways, to stunning patios, to serene landscapes, Belgard offers an array of hardscape products to complement your home and help you create the perfect dreamscape.

Shop for Pavers, Rocks & Stepping Stones in Landscaping & Lawn Care. … Garden Concrete Paving Pathway Patio Path Brick Stepping Stone Mould Black.

Landscaping Supplies Direct is rapidly becoming a top online retailer for garden landscape supplies in the UK. Get cheap paving delivered direct to your home!

ITS an icing on a cake to have a beautiful garden stone pathway outside our … designed path- concrete sleepers and river pebbles Driveway Paving, Stone.

It is important to consider our impact on the environment. If you are environmentally conscientious, or perhaps facing zoning restrictions on surfaces or areas that are limiting what you can build on your property, our eco-friendly permeable interlocking concrete pavers could be the right choice for you.

via Check This Out More Resources

[skilltradecontractor]

Garden Paving Stones

Contents

Pavers pool deck

3 feet long. “homeowners typically

Abbotsford concrete products

Designed path- concrete sleepers

Facing zoning restrictions

Driveway Pavement Repair Learn how to repair Asphalt driveways or blacktop driveway repair with Sakrete. We offer various products for best driveway crack filler, and blacktop repair. EZ

Interlocking Paving Stone Pool Decks. Ask anyone with a pool deck made from our interlocking paving stones and you’ll discover a dozen new reasons why no other pool decking solution even comes close to a System pavers pool deck.

Block Paving Block Paving. Block paving is a common site throughout the UK, from the footpaths on the High Street to many domestic driveways. block pavers provide

We are fortunate to own a manual sod stripper of our very own, and it has gotten a great deal of use. Pavers on the right lead to a small patio adjacent to the back fence. Work continued into the fall …

… in. x 18 in. Concrete Tan Variegated Traditional Yorkstone Paver (pallet of 64 pieces) …. The 12 in. square patio stone is an easy landscape addition to a patio or pathway. It is also great for step stones in a garden or for a walkway. Outdoor …

Why choose Patios – Garden paving, Patio & Paving Slabs? … If you want to install a new patio, look no further than our range of natural stone paving slabs.

(PRLEAP.COM) TAMPA, BAY, Fla. – Bay Brick Pavers (BBP) of Tampa announces the grand opening of a new showroom in the Tampa Bay-area community of Land O’ Lakes. Unlike the usual warehouse-sized patio …

Residential Paving Companies … provides asphalt paving and consulting services in the United States. It offers asphalt, warm-mix asphalt asphalt company southern maryland, thin asphalt overlay, roller pave roller-compacted concrete, concrete, roads/highways,

Flooring for outdoor spaces can range from a mortared flagstone surface to a paver patio, but Anewalt sees a trend toward using durable pavers in larger sizes up to 3 feet long. “homeowners typically …

Driveway Sealing Harrisburg Pa The men offered to coat the driveway and when the work was completed, the resident was handed a bill for $2,350, police said. The home

Pulling the weeds that have sneaked through the narrow spaces between your garden-path or patio pavers can give you a real pain in the neck. Several strategies will minimize the time you spend on this …

Paving & Walling. … Create intriguing passages through to different parts of your garden or save wearing out the grass with easy to lay stepping stones …

Boston Region. Clarke Landscapes LLC Uses Estate Wall to Turn a Sloping Yard into a Luxurious, Party-Ready Patio in Farmington, CT; Modern Outdoor Kitchen and Patio by Hyde Park Landscape, Inc. in Gales Ferry, CT, Features Lineo Dimensional Stone Grill Island

Concrete Driveway Asheville EnnisArt installs designer colors and protective treatments for concrete floors, finished basements, radiant heated slabs, garages, patios, and … The original concrete floor in the

In the backyard of Janice and Tony Bruno, there’s a beige gravel path leading past a babbling fountain to a cozy patio. Butterfly pavers line a grassy garden and bird habitat, which gives way to a …

Feb 22, 2019 … Shop stones & pavers in the pavers & retaining walls section of Lowes.com. … Square Gray Concrete Patio Stone (Common: 12-in x; Actual: …

abbotsford concrete products Ltd. has been an innovative industry leader in the manufacturing of Interlocking Pavingstones and Segmental Retaining Wall Systems for more than two decades.

DEAR JESSICA: About 40 years ago, my husband put in a brick patio, in sand, in our backyard, using 900 bricks. We had eight children, and our yard was the neighborhood play yard. Now we have weeds …

Paving Stones, Landscape Walls & Backyard Hardscapes From eye-catching driveways, to stunning patios, to serene landscapes, Belgard offers an array of hardscape products to complement your home and help you create the perfect dreamscape.

Shop for Pavers, Rocks & Stepping Stones in Landscaping & Lawn Care. … Garden Concrete Paving Pathway Patio Path Brick Stepping Stone Mould Black.

Landscaping Supplies Direct is rapidly becoming a top online retailer for garden landscape supplies in the UK. Get cheap paving delivered direct to your home!

ITS an icing on a cake to have a beautiful garden stone pathway outside our … designed path- concrete sleepers and river pebbles Driveway Paving, Stone.

It is important to consider our impact on the environment. If you are environmentally conscientious, or perhaps facing zoning restrictions on surfaces or areas that are limiting what you can build on your property, our eco-friendly permeable interlocking concrete pavers could be the right choice for you.

via Check This Out

[vikingpavers]

A fire pit gives you the little bit of extra heat you need to help you enjoy your outdoor spaces even in the fall and winter.

[blackpjensen]

Design/Build Project Expands To Grow With Client’s Needs

What began as one residential landscape project expanded to two distinct areas when the homeowner purchased an adjacent lot. Lindgren Landscape in Fort Collins, CO took this impressive project from start to finish.

Imagine designing and building one project, and then having the clients offer you a second, totally different one.

The big question: how do you meld a small, intimate space to an entire city lot?

Not only did Tim Lindgren, owner of Fort Collins, CO-based Lindgren Landscape, come up with an answer, but his solution was good enough to be recognized by Hardscape North America (HNA) for its use of concrete pavers in a residential space of less than 3,000 square feet.

Photo: Lindgren Landscape

Lindgren explains that his company was initially contacted by the buyers of a residential lot in what’s known as Old Town Fort Collins, an area of older homes in this university town in north central Colorado.

“They were going to scrape the house and start new,” he says. “And, they had some pretty lofty goals for the site. They interviewed us and we won the design-build portion of the landscape.”

He says work on the new home was about halfway completed before Lindgren Landscape got involved with the project on what had become a bare lot.

“They entertain a lot, so having a place to host large parties was a big piece of what they wanted,” Lindgren explains. “They also wanted a sense of unity between the indoor and the outdoor. They wanted to be able to open their doors and feel like the outdoors was an extension of the interior of the house, so we used a lot of the same materials, masonry-wise, and finishes that tied in with the interior of the house.”

It sounds simple enough, but the reality was something different. Because of the lot size, the clients only had a small courtyard on the west side of the house for the outdoor living space, and it needed to incorporate a grill/outdoor kitchen, a fire feature, and a water feature.

Additionally, because the clients asked that the entire lot be surrounded by a courtyard wall and masonry fence, drainage became a major issue.

With footers poured to a depth of 30″, the wall is mainly concrete masonry block.

“We used decorative iron for detail in between the posts above the wall, along with some rustic wood,” says Lindgren. “The house has some brick and some natural stone and some old wood from a barn that was used for decorative features, and we used the same elements in the wall that surrounds the property.”

Lindgren describes the home’s courtyard as having a contemporary feel. For instance, the water feature is three concrete slabs mounted in front of the neighbor’s garage wall and lit from below with lighting hidden in a seat wall.

“It took a ton of design and planning,” says Lindgren about his favorite feature of the project. “We had to have custom-fabricated concrete slabs, and custom steel fasteners to hold it together. The interior basin was waterproofed by a pool and spa company.

“It’s as custom a water feature as we’ve done, and it was really fun to dream it up, design it, and then see it fabricated.”

Also, custom is the rectangular concrete fire pit, which measures 7′ x 3′ and required a custom-made burner. The grilling area is all stainless steel and stone, with built-in cabinets.

Although the surface of the courtyard is Belgard pavers, “Because of the courtyard wall and masonry fence the whole property trapped water,” says Lindgren. “To get the water out of there, we had to have an engineer come in and do a gradient drainage plan, we had to do a trench drain through the middle of the courtyard with a decorative grate, and then we had to pipe everything into the street.”

Photo: Lindgren Landscape

Further complicating the matter, Fort Collins city regulations required that because the outflow would be into the street, it was necessary to do a traffic plan to reroute foot traffic and close the sidewalk while demolition and installation took place.

Softscaping for the patio featured container plants and planters built within the masonry walls and benches.

Act Two Of Landscape Design

Lindgren Landscape was just about through with the patio portion of the project — one which required the company to work around both the subcontractors it had contracted with for features such as the masonry and the general contractor’s subs who were finishing up work on the house itself — when the owners sprung a little surprise on the landscape firm: they had bought the adjacent lot and needed it landscaped, as well.

“The lot next to it was basically the same size they had, but without the house on it,” says Lindgren. “That added five or six times the amount of square footage. It got substantially larger.”

Given the work the company had already done, including the courtyard walls, Lindgren chose to create a whole different atmosphere in the much larger space.

“We took the courtyard wall and put in a big rustic wooden door,” he explains. “You open that and walk out and it’s a whole different experience. It’s a more rustic feel with boulder water features, boulders set into the patios and two pergolas. It’s a whole different experience.”

  Photos: Lindgren Landscape

An excellent example of that difference is in the water feature. The large lot includes a 50′ x 50′ pond with boulders, three waterfalls, and a host of lily pads.

“It’s a very natural-looking water feature,” Lindgren observes.

The larger area also makes use of the same Belgard pavers, but not in any formal way.

“We continued the pavers for the walking surface, but the interior courtyard is all straight lines and rectilinear design, while the backyard patio is very curvilinear,” he says. “And, the seating areas include boulders. It’s a much more organic feel.”

Photo: Lindgren Landscape

The larger area includes an elevated paver patio which makes use of one of the two pergolas incorporated into the project.

“It’s probably 15′ x 20′ and the pergola is about eight feet tall,” Lindgren says. “It provides some structure above and the vertical part of the structure will allow vines to grow so it has a lattice feel on the walls for privacy.”

The second structure is set in the area just outside the door from the courtyard and provides some direction for people using the larger space.

“It’s above an L-shaped walkway,” he explains. “You go through the door, turn left and the structure guides you along and presents the backyard.”

As with the initial courtyard, the clients had a real desire for privacy. However, in this case, Lindgren was able to provide it through plantings.

“We did an extensive amount of planting around the perimeter, even knowing that eventually they’re going to have to maintain them pretty extensively to keep them in order,” he says. “They wanted an instant barrier between their neighbors, so we used a lot of trees. They’re mostly ornamental, so we put in upright junipers in the 10-12-foot range and some columnar spruce — a lot of evergreens.”

Additionally, softscape was used to set off the water feature, including conifer and deciduous trees that he describes as “pretty natural-looking.”

Lighting for the project features several dozen different lamps of different styles from FX Luminaire which are all dimmable and done by zone. Water features are lit both in and out of the water.

Photo: Lindgren Landscape

While Lindgren is most proud of the water feature in the courtyard, it’s water that also proved to be the most challenging — and educational — aspect of the job, which took almost 18 months from when he first met with the clients to completion of the large lot, and utilized as many as 10-12 employees and subs on the site during construction.

“We were basically creating a giant bathtub and making sure we had good drainage was at the top of our list,” he says. “It all drained beautifully, but we really learned a lot about drainage including 100-year storms and how quickly water needs to leave the site to make room for the next amount. It was working at a whole other level, and fortunately we had some engineers who helped lead the way on that.”

Schipper is a writer and editor specializing in B2B publishing. She is a partner in Word Mechanics, based in Palm Springs, CA.

The post Design/Build Project Expands To Grow With Client’s Needs appeared first on Turf.

from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230377 http://bit.ly/2QEOcTN via IFTTT

[usalifestylemag-blog]

How to Make The Backyard The Style Center of Your Home

For many homeowners, the backyard is not at the forefront of their home-design plans. But procrastination can be an advantage when it comes to outdoor living. By the time many people consider the backyard, they have developed a strong sense of their own décor personality.

Most consumers' design styles can be classified as the traditionalist, bohemian, modern, eclectic, rustic or industrial, according to Belgard, a company dedicated to outdoor living design and elements for patio spaces and beyond.

Fortunately, there are backyard design plans to suit any taste, as well as any budget. Some design elements that might have particular appeal to different décor personalities include:

*For the traditionalist: Classic comfort. What is the primary purpose of a patio? A place for sitting and relaxing. Attractive, sturdy pavers in appealing patterns provide easy walking and an artistic base for conversation nooks of tables, chairs, planters, and picnic tables.

*For the bohemian: Fire pit. Fire pits are an easy way to promote cozy gathering for all ages. And everyone can appreciate freedom from bugs; wood fires can help hold mosquitoes at bay.

*For the modernist: Multiple levels. Homeowners seeking a modern look can consider a range of options for walkways and pavers that might include steps and slopes to wind through a terraced garden.

*For the eclectic: Water features. But not just for swimming. Homeowners can show off an eclectic backyard style with a fountain, fish pond, or other water feature that makes a splash.

*For the rustic: Eating out. Cooking outdoors can reach a new level, as advanced outdoor kitchen units allow guests to help with meal preparation or just chat with the host/chef while enjoying the outdoor setting.

*For the industrial: Unique lighting is a way to make a statement and set a mood in an outdoor setting. Some ways to get creative with light include not only hardscape lighting and illuminated planters, but short-term elements such as lighting fixtures that highlight cool metals and metallics for a more urban, industrial vibe.

Belgard, part of Oldcastle Architectural, was established in 1995 and remains a respected source of durable, classic, stylish outdoor-living products and a resource for design ideas to help homeowners take on backyard design with confidence.

Visit www.Belgard.com for more ideas on optimizing your outdoor living environment.

[aaltjebarisca]

Hardscaping Trends to Make Your House Stand Out

Now that spring is in full swing, it’s the perfect time to jazz up the outside of your home. Along with landscaping, hardscaping can be that “something extra” your home needs to stand out in the neighborhood.

Hardscaping refers to any inorganic item used in landscaping, including, but is not limited to, pavers, retaining walls and pergolas.

According to DGM Landscaping and Lawn Care in Augusta, Georgia, “A space can be hardscaped without being softscaped (adding plants or flowers), but having your land solely softscaped leaves your garden vulnerable to damages caused by rainwater runoff that carr[ies] toxins.”

Pavers

Image: beyondpavers.co

Pavers are a long-term, highly durable choice to help transform your yard. Many options are easy to place because they interlock. There are a few types of pavers to choose from, including brick, concrete, porcelain and natural stone, which come in all shapes and sizes. They are also meant to be long-lasting. With plenty of options available, the perfect style for your home may be easy to find.

According to Landscape Management’s Marisa Palmieri, most homeowners looking into pavers choose more of a modern feel.

“They want clean, smooth textures and large format designs,” Palmieri says. “They’re eschewing the old world or cobblestone feel because they’re becoming savvier about design choices that may date their homes.”

She mentions many different options, including gray tones, plank-style pavers, large format shapes and modular design. All these options are larger than the traditional cobblestone brick pavers of the past and allow new designs that better reflect the overall look of the home.

“Again, things are going more toward the clean, streamlined look,” Palmieri says. “These are driven by (a trend toward) big, clean lines and also wood plank options. We’re seeing these in grays, whites and blacks.”

Retaining Walls

Image: stvlandscape.com

Retaining walls are no longer just used for functionality; instead, they are becoming increasingly more diverse and expressive.

In an interview with Jennifer King of Turf Magazine, Joseph Raboine, director of Belgard design studio, discusses the influx of retaining walls. He says, “we are starting to see much more integration of features into retaining walls, especially adjacent to outdoor living areas.”

Succulents or other garden plants in retaining walls can give your home a tropical look among the hardscape.

“A very popular trend is being water wise and easy to maintain by incorporating plants and especially succulents for their drought tolerance and minimal care required,” says Ingeborg Carr, director of Marketing of Altman Plants. “The appeal of succulents is also their architectural shapes.”

Multiuse spaces are also being incorporated into backyard retaining walls.

“We are seeing features such as kitchens and fireplaces being used in conjunction with walls to help retain hillsides,” King says. “I think the trend is starting to shift away from the idea that a retaining wall is just a functional requirement and instead can be a beautiful addition to their property.”

Pergolas

While the traditional gazebo is covered, the pergola is a more open option for the home because the structure allows selective light through. Traditionally found in desert climates, this design has started making its way to other regions as well. It can help give a backyard that finishing touch it may lack.

“The open canopy of a pergola’s overhead structure is a strong and effective transitional link between a house’s solid roof and the pergola’s open structure,” Kier Holmes of Gardenista says. “Personally, I love the dappled light created by a pergola, the shadows and interesting patterns that are cast as sunlight or moonlight finds its way through the structure.”

A pergola can help mesh the home into the backyard.

“[Pergolas] create a living room feel for your outdoor dining table and chair set,” Holmes says. “Piggybacking on that idea, your outdoor kitchen or barbecue area could use a sense of homeyness.”

Whether the structure is made of wood, metal or both, the options for color and style are almost endless.

“Keep in mind that a combination can be used,” Holmes says. “Consider a mix-and-match arrangement, but whatever materials you choose, remember to base your choices on solid design principals.”

Combined with landscaping, hardscaping can help transform a yard into a sanctuary. Pergolas, pavers and retaining walls are just three ways that you can use hardscaping. Following these trends can create a brand new, fresh atmosphere for your backyard guests, and your front yard neighbors, as well as turn your house into one cohesive unit from inside to out.

The post Hardscaping Trends to Make Your House Stand Out appeared first on ZING Blog by Quicken Loans.

from Updates About Loans https://www.quickenloans.com/blog/hardscaping-trends-make-house-stand

[mikebrackett]

Hardscaping Trends to Make Your House Stand Out

Now that spring is in full swing, it’s the perfect time to jazz up the outside of your home. Along with landscaping, hardscaping can be that “something extra” your home needs to stand out in the neighborhood.

Hardscaping refers to any inorganic item used in landscaping, including, but is not limited to, pavers, retaining walls and pergolas.

According to DGM Landscaping and Lawn Care in Augusta, Georgia, “A space can be hardscaped without being softscaped (adding plants or flowers), but having your land solely softscaped leaves your garden vulnerable to damages caused by rainwater runoff that carr[ies] toxins.”

Pavers

Image: beyondpavers.co

Pavers are a long-term, highly durable choice to help transform your yard. Many options are easy to place because they interlock. There are a few types of pavers to choose from, including brick, concrete, porcelain and natural stone, which come in all shapes and sizes. They are also meant to be long-lasting. With plenty of options available, the perfect style for your home may be easy to find.

According to Landscape Management’s Marisa Palmieri, most homeowners looking into pavers choose more of a modern feel.

“They want clean, smooth textures and large format designs,” Palmieri says. “They’re eschewing the old world or cobblestone feel because they’re becoming savvier about design choices that may date their homes.”

She mentions many different options, including gray tones, plank-style pavers, large format shapes and modular design. All these options are larger than the traditional cobblestone brick pavers of the past and allow new designs that better reflect the overall look of the home.

“Again, things are going more toward the clean, streamlined look,” Palmieri says. “These are driven by (a trend toward) big, clean lines and also wood plank options. We’re seeing these in grays, whites and blacks.”

Retaining Walls

Image: stvlandscape.com

Retaining walls are no longer just used for functionality; instead, they are becoming increasingly more diverse and expressive.

In an interview with Jennifer King of Turf Magazine, Joseph Raboine, director of Belgard design studio, discusses the influx of retaining walls. He says, “we are starting to see much more integration of features into retaining walls, especially adjacent to outdoor living areas.”

Succulents or other garden plants in retaining walls can give your home a tropical look among the hardscape.

“A very popular trend is being water wise and easy to maintain by incorporating plants and especially succulents for their drought tolerance and minimal care required,” says Ingeborg Carr, director of Marketing of Altman Plants. “The appeal of succulents is also their architectural shapes.”

Multiuse spaces are also being incorporated into backyard retaining walls.

“We are seeing features such as kitchens and fireplaces being used in conjunction with walls to help retain hillsides,” King says. “I think the trend is starting to shift away from the idea that a retaining wall is just a functional requirement and instead can be a beautiful addition to their property.”

Pergolas

While the traditional gazebo is covered, the pergola is a more open option for the home because the structure allows selective light through. Traditionally found in desert climates, this design has started making its way to other regions as well. It can help give a backyard that finishing touch it may lack.

“The open canopy of a pergola’s overhead structure is a strong and effective transitional link between a house’s solid roof and the pergola’s open structure,” Kier Holmes of Gardenista says. “Personally, I love the dappled light created by a pergola, the shadows and interesting patterns that are cast as sunlight or moonlight finds its way through the structure.”

A pergola can help mesh the home into the backyard.

“[Pergolas] create a living room feel for your outdoor dining table and chair set,” Holmes says. “Piggybacking on that idea, your outdoor kitchen or barbecue area could use a sense of homeyness.”

Whether the structure is made of wood, metal or both, the options for color and style are almost endless.

“Keep in mind that a combination can be used,” Holmes says. “Consider a mix-and-match arrangement, but whatever materials you choose, remember to base your choices on solid design principals.”

Combined with landscaping, hardscaping can help transform a yard into a sanctuary. Pergolas, pavers and retaining walls are just three ways that you can use hardscaping. Following these trends can create a brand new, fresh atmosphere for your backyard guests, and your front yard neighbors, as well as turn your house into one cohesive unit from inside to out.

The post Hardscaping Trends to Make Your House Stand Out appeared first on ZING Blog by Quicken Loans.

from Updates About Loans https://www.quickenloans.com/blog/hardscaping-trends-make-house-stand

[aaronsniderus]

Hardscaping Trends to Make Your House Stand Out

Now that spring is in full swing, it’s the perfect time to jazz up the outside of your home. Along with landscaping, hardscaping can be that “something extra” your home needs to stand out in the neighborhood.

Hardscaping refers to any inorganic item used in landscaping, including, but is not limited to, pavers, retaining walls and pergolas.

According to DGM Landscaping and Lawn Care in Augusta, Georgia, “A space can be hardscaped without being softscaped (adding plants or flowers), but having your land solely softscaped leaves your garden vulnerable to damages caused by rainwater runoff that carr[ies] toxins.”

Pavers

Image: beyondpavers.co

Pavers are a long-term, highly durable choice to help transform your yard. Many options are easy to place because they interlock. There are a few types of pavers to choose from, including brick, concrete, porcelain and natural stone, which come in all shapes and sizes. They are also meant to be long-lasting. With plenty of options available, the perfect style for your home may be easy to find.

According to Landscape Management’s Marisa Palmieri, most homeowners looking into pavers choose more of a modern feel.

“They want clean, smooth textures and large format designs,” Palmieri says. “They’re eschewing the old world or cobblestone feel because they’re becoming savvier about design choices that may date their homes.”

She mentions many different options, including gray tones, plank-style pavers, large format shapes and modular design. All these options are larger than the traditional cobblestone brick pavers of the past and allow new designs that better reflect the overall look of the home.

“Again, things are going more toward the clean, streamlined look,” Palmieri says. “These are driven by (a trend toward) big, clean lines and also wood plank options. We’re seeing these in grays, whites and blacks.”

Retaining Walls

Image: stvlandscape.com

Retaining walls are no longer just used for functionality; instead, they are becoming increasingly more diverse and expressive.

In an interview with Jennifer King of Turf Magazine, Joseph Raboine, director of Belgard design studio, discusses the influx of retaining walls. He says, “we are starting to see much more integration of features into retaining walls, especially adjacent to outdoor living areas.”

Succulents or other garden plants in retaining walls can give your home a tropical look among the hardscape.

“A very popular trend is being water wise and easy to maintain by incorporating plants and especially succulents for their drought tolerance and minimal care required,” says Ingeborg Carr, director of Marketing of Altman Plants. “The appeal of succulents is also their architectural shapes.”

Multiuse spaces are also being incorporated into backyard retaining walls.

“We are seeing features such as kitchens and fireplaces being used in conjunction with walls to help retain hillsides,” King says. “I think the trend is starting to shift away from the idea that a retaining wall is just a functional requirement and instead can be a beautiful addition to their property.”

Pergolas

While the traditional gazebo is covered, the pergola is a more open option for the home because the structure allows selective light through. Traditionally found in desert climates, this design has started making its way to other regions as well. It can help give a backyard that finishing touch it may lack.

“The open canopy of a pergola’s overhead structure is a strong and effective transitional link between a house’s solid roof and the pergola’s open structure,” Kier Holmes of Gardenista says. “Personally, I love the dappled light created by a pergola, the shadows and interesting patterns that are cast as sunlight or moonlight finds its way through the structure.”

A pergola can help mesh the home into the backyard.

“[Pergolas] create a living room feel for your outdoor dining table and chair set,” Holmes says. “Piggybacking on that idea, your outdoor kitchen or barbecue area could use a sense of homeyness.”

Whether the structure is made of wood, metal or both, the options for color and style are almost endless.

“Keep in mind that a combination can be used,” Holmes says. “Consider a mix-and-match arrangement, but whatever materials you choose, remember to base your choices on solid design principals.”

Combined with landscaping, hardscaping can help transform a yard into a sanctuary. Pergolas, pavers and retaining walls are just three ways that you can use hardscaping. Following these trends can create a brand new, fresh atmosphere for your backyard guests, and your front yard neighbors, as well as turn your house into one cohesive unit from inside to out.

The post Hardscaping Trends to Make Your House Stand Out appeared first on ZING Blog by Quicken Loans.

from Updates About Loans https://www.quickenloans.com/blog/hardscaping-trends-make-house-stand

[greencavs023-blog]

Hardscaping Trends to Make Your House Stand Out

Now that spring is in full swing, it's the perfect time to jazz up the outside of your home. Along with landscaping, hardscaping can be that “something extra” your home needs to stand out in the neighborhood.

Hardscaping refers to any inorganic item used in landscaping, including, but is not limited to, pavers, retaining walls and pergolas.

According to DGM Landscaping and Lawn Care in Augusta, Georgia, “A space can be hardscaped without being softscaped (adding plants or flowers), but having your land solely softscaped leaves your garden vulnerable to damages caused by rainwater runoff that carr[ies] toxins.”

Pavers

Image: beyondpavers.co

Pavers are a long-term, highly durable choice to help transform your yard. Many options are easy to place because they interlock. There are a few types of pavers to choose from, including brick, concrete, porcelain and natural stone, which come in all shapes and sizes. They are also meant to be long-lasting. With plenty of options available, the perfect style for your home may be easy to find.

According to Landscape Management's Marisa Palmieri, most homeowners looking into pavers choose more of a modern feel.

“They want clean, smooth textures and large format designs,” Palmieri says. “They're eschewing the old world or cobblestone feel because they're becoming savvier about design choices that may date their homes.”

data-dcm-placement='N108408.2405705ZINGBLOGBYQUICKEN/B10033279.142549960' data-dcm-rendering-mode='script' data-dcm-https-only data-dcm-resettable-device-id='' data-dcm-app-id='' data-dcm-keywords='[url_encoded_publisher_data]'>

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She mentions many different options, including gray tones, plank-style pavers, large format shapes and modular design. All these options are larger than the traditional cobblestone brick pavers of the past and allow new designs that better reflect the overall look of the home.

“Again, things are going more toward the clean, streamlined look,” Palmieri says. “These are driven by (a trend toward) big, clean lines and also wood plank options. We're seeing these in grays, whites and blacks.”

Retaining Walls

Image: stvlandscape.com

Retaining walls are no longer just used for functionality; instead, they are becoming increasingly more diverse and expressive.

In an interview with Jennifer King of Turf Magazine, Joseph Raboine, director of Belgard design studio, discusses the influx of retaining walls. He says, “we are starting to see much more integration of features into retaining walls, especially adjacent to outdoor living areas.”

Succulents or other garden plants in retaining walls can give your home a tropical look among the hardscape.

“A very popular trend is being water wise and easy to maintain by incorporating plants and especially succulents for their drought tolerance and minimal care required,” says Ingeborg Carr, director of Marketing of Altman Plants. “The appeal of succulents is also their architectural shapes.”

Multiuse spaces are also being incorporated into backyard retaining walls.

“We are seeing features such as kitchens and fireplaces being used in conjunction with walls to help retain hillsides,” King says. “I think the trend is starting to shift away from the idea that a retaining wall is just a functional requirement and instead can be a beautiful addition to their property.”

Pergolas

While the traditional gazebo is covered, the pergola is a more open option for the home because the structure allows selective light through. Traditionally found in desert climates, this design has started making its way to other regions as well. It can help give a backyard that finishing touch it may lack.

“The open canopy of a pergola's overhead structure is a strong and effective transitional link between a house's solid roof and the pergola's open structure,” Kier Holmes of Gardenista says. “Personally, I love the dappled light created by a pergola, the shadows and interesting patterns that are cast as sunlight or moonlight finds its way through the structure.”

A pergola can help mesh the home into the backyard.

“[Pergolas] create a living room feel for your outdoor dining table and chair set,” Holmes says. “Piggybacking on that idea, your outdoor kitchen or barbecue area could use a sense of homeyness.”

Whether the structure is made of wood, metal or both, the options for color and style are almost endless.

“Keep in mind that a combination can be used,” Holmes says. “Consider a mix-and-match arrangement, but whatever materials you choose, remember to base your choices on solid design principals.”

Combined with landscaping, hardscaping can help transform a yard into a sanctuary. Pergolas, pavers and retaining walls are just three ways that you can use hardscaping. Following these trends can create a brand new, fresh atmosphere for your backyard guests, and your front yard neighbors, as well as turn your house into one cohesive unit from inside to out.

The post Hardscaping Trends to Make Your House Stand Out appeared first on ZING Blog by Quicken Loans.