As outdoor living spaces become more sophisticated, homeowners desire more creative remodels. There were many challenges facing this Bainbridge Island property, both in terms of function and livability. Ground water was seeping into the basement. With no clear sense of entry in the yard, guests often had trouble finding the front door.

The owners needed a yard design that retained the steep slope (left) leading up to the front door while collecting ground water and providing visitors with easy access to the home. As with all good remodels, the design had to utilize as much of the sound, pre-existing landscape and structures as possible. In the case of the Bainbridge property, these included a staircase and pond!

The original yard included a foot path made of broken concrete and stone (right). A low rock wall ran along the perimeter of the garden (below). The remodel would have to solve the previous issues and still provide the definition of walkways and other garden borders.

Naturally, the owners also wanted a beautiful remodel that pleased the senses. What to do?