Our team embarked on a comprehensive landscape transformation for a coastal property in Bristol, Rhode Island. The goal was to develop a master plan for the entire site, with a phased implementation approach. This would allow the homeowner to enjoy their outdoor space in stages while addressing the need for privacy from surrounding roads and neighbors. At the same time, it was crucial to maintain the breathtaking view of the water that made the property so unique.
Existing Site: The property’s existing landscape featured a mature canopy of trees, which, while providing shade, did little to offer the privacy the homeowner desired. Additionally, the plantings had become overgrown and disorganized, detracting from the natural beauty of the site and making the space feel cluttered. The layout needed restructuring to bring a sense of harmony and enhance both privacy and visual appeal.
Challenges: One of the primary challenges we faced was the presence of ledge throughout the property. This geological feature made deep excavation and planting more difficult, requiring creative solutions to achieve the design goals. The landscape plan needed to adapt to these natural limitations while still delivering the privacy and aesthetic enhancements the homeowner wanted.
Solution:
Transplanting and Reorganizing Existing Plants:
Rather than completely removing the existing plant life, we opted to strategically transplant many of the plants to new locations. This process allowed us to preserve the mature vegetation and use it in a way that better suited the overall landscape design. By moving these plants into more functional positions, we created a sense of order and flow across the property, optimizing the use of space and improving the visual balance.
Entrance Plant Beds to Frame the Driveway:
First impressions matter, and the driveway is often the first feature visitors notice. To elevate the property’s curb appeal, we designed entrance plant beds that beautifully frame the driveway. These plantings are composed of perennials and shrubs selected for their aesthetic qualities as well as their ability to thrive in the local climate. The new beds not only make the entryway more welcoming but also create a seamless transition between the driveway and the surrounding landscape.
Driveway Turnaround Planting:
The turnaround area of the driveway previously lacked character, so we introduced a new selection of low-maintenance plants that add visual interest and texture. With species such as sedum, ornamental grasses, and dwarf conifers, the space now has year-round appeal without requiring extensive care. These plants are particularly suited to the rocky conditions posed by the ledge, ensuring both beauty and practicality.
Foundation Planting for Color and Evergreen Foliage:
The foundation beds surrounding the house were revamped with a blend of colorful and evergreen plants to provide structure and visual appeal throughout the year. We added vibrant, long-blooming perennials like hydrangeas and roses to bring seasonal color, while evergreen shrubs like boxwood provide consistent greenery even in winter. These updates created a balanced look that highlights the home’s architectural features and offers year-round visual interest.
Key Features:
Entrance Plantings:
The newly designed entrance plantings consist of a harmonious mix of perennials, shrubs, and ornamental grasses. These beds frame the driveway and create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The seasonal variation in bloom times ensures that the entrance is always visually dynamic, while the sturdy, low-maintenance plants provide long-lasting beauty with minimal upkeep.
Driveway Turnaround Planting:
We transformed the driveway’s turnaround area with a combination of hardy, low-maintenance plants that thrive in rocky soil conditions. These include dwarf conifers, sedum, and ornamental grasses, which offer both texture and color throughout the year. The new plantings bring character to what was once an overlooked space, making it a visually appealing part of the landscape.
Foundation Planting:
The foundation beds were revitalized with a blend of evergreens and flowering perennials. Evergreen shrubs like boxwood offer structure and provide greenery throughout the year, while colorful plants like hydrangeas and roses add vibrant pops of color during the growing season. This mix of textures and hues ensures that the foundation beds are a visual highlight in every season.
Screening for Privacy:
To provide the desired privacy from neighboring properties and nearby roads, we installed a natural screen of fast-growing evergreen trees and shrubs. These were carefully positioned to block views where needed, while maintaining open sightlines to the water. This strategic balance between privacy and openness allows the homeowner to enjoy their serene coastal views without feeling exposed.
Drip Irrigation System:
To ensure the new plantings thrive with minimal effort, we installed a drip irrigation system. This system delivers water directly to the plant roots, minimizing water waste and encouraging deep, healthy root growth. It’s an efficient solution that works well with the natural contours of the site, ensuring that all plants receive the hydration they need, even in areas where the ledge makes traditional watering methods less effective.
This Bristol, Rhode Island project demonstrates how thoughtful landscape design can address complex challenges while creating a beautiful, functional outdoor space. By reorganizing existing plants, adding visually appealing features, and incorporating practical elements like screening and drip irrigation, we transformed the property into a private retreat that complements its coastal setting. The result is a landscape that balances aesthetic charm with low-maintenance solutions, providing the homeowner with a stunning outdoor space to enjoy for years to come.
