Washington, DC backyard landscape design

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Project Summary

CHALLENGE

These Washington, D.C., homeowners had completed a multi-year renovation for their whole house, and it was finally time to address the landscape.

SOLUTIONS

Home Outside developed two design solutions with sleek, contemporary details for this narrow, sloped backyard. Both designs created ample space for large and small social gatherings, play lawns, raised vegetable gardens, and privacy from neighbors.

BASE PLAN of EXISTING CONDITIONS

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DRAFT DESIGN 1

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DRAFT DESIGN 2

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Final Landscape Design Plans

Click on the hotspots to learn about each design scheme.

FINAL DESIGN 1

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Wood pedestal paving applied over the existing sunk concrete patio surface revamps this well-used outdoor gathering area. A built-in L-shaped bench saves space.

New cantilevered concrete steps and walkway lead up the steep slope to the larger backyard landscape.

An expanded patio utilizing concrete unit pavers features ample space for a comfortable outdoor couch and large dining table, perfect for outdoor parties. A shade tree will grow to become a focal point for the back yard and will provide shade for the patio during the warmer months.

Cast-in-place concrete steppers disintegrate into a gravel firepit patio, eventually leading to the rear parking area. Small trees planted informally around the firepit provide interest and some separation between the various garden rooms. Changing the paving material to a more informal gravel patio increases visual interest in the backyard while also helping to separate the individual garden rooms.

Two raised planting beds are perfect for growing seasonal vegetables and cut flowers.

Large planting beds that frame the newly expanded patio consist of low- to medium-height shrubs and perennial plantings.

The large lawn is a multipurpose play space for lawn games, picnics, sun-bathing, or other activities. Single-species evergreen vegetation surrounding the lawn adds privacy.

Vehicular-rated concrete unit pavers form the space for two parked cars, side by side. A hedgerow in front blocks the cars from the backyard view.

FINAL DESIGN 2

Wood pedestal paving applied over the existing sunk concrete patio surface revamps this well-used outdoor gathering area. A built-in L-shaped bench saves space.

New cantilevered concrete steps and walkway lead up the steep slope to the larger backyard landscape.

A generously sized unit-paving patio provides enough space for a large outdoor couch centered on a gas firepit, as well as a big dining table for outdoor parties. A large deciduous tree will grow to provide shade during the warmer months. String lights overhead add nighttime ambiance.

Two raised planting beds are perfect for growing seasonal vegetables and cut flowers. Plantings will screen storage shed beyond. Small shed allows space for a bike parking court in front.

Vehicular-rated concrete unit pavers form the space for two parked cars, side by side. A hedgerow in front blocks the cars from the backyard view.

The large lawn is a multipurpose play space for lawn games, picnics, sun-bathing, or other activities. Single-species evergreen vegetation surrounding the lawn increases privacy.