Private Strolling Garden

Wellesley, MA

Project completed while employed as a Senior Landscape Architect with Presley Associates, Inc.

Challenge: The client requested a landscape that allowed year-round use and explored a variety of active and meditative spaces. The project team worked closely to develop a program that encompassed circulation, vehicular access, a spa terrace for entertaining, play area, outdoor lighting and native plantings with seasonal interests.

Results: The calming qualities of a woodland forest were the inspiration behind the entrance drive improvements. Native woodland understory plantings strengthen the mature evergreen trees that line the entrance drive creating a meditative entry experience. Stone walls throughout the property define the individual landscape spaces, and a bluestone terrace provides a space for outdoor dining and large family gatherings adjacent to the indoor spa. The design team was careful to modify the existing topography while preserving mature deciduous shade trees and maximizing open lawn areas for play.