An Inspiring Retreat

A leafy sidewalk canopy of maples invites stopping and looking. Woodland plants and a variety of foliage below capture the eye, while the soft burble of water at the top of the stairs beckons you up for discovery, inspiration and connection.

Look up into the largest tree on the property, a ‘Crimson King’ Norway maple and its large nearly black leaves. Note the ‘Lion’s Mane’ Japanese maple with deeply crinkled green leaves, famed for its amazing autumn show of flaming colors.

A bamboo privacy fence shelters a patio under the dappled shade of a spreading magnolia tree, enlivened by seasonal plantings. An ‘Emperor’ Japanese maple adds brilliant fall color. 

Well-planned architectural elements allowed Laura and Dan to create inviting gathering spaces “that feel beautiful and grounding, while connecting with nature”…Their focus was “choosing plants with seasonal interest, combining them with the beauty of natural materials,” like the mica-infused Silver Strike flagstone brightening the shady parking strip and front patio.

From the patio, walk through the side garden. Scottish moss adds a pop of color and texture underfoot. A tall arbor adds structural interest, framing the entrance to an outdoor ‘great room’ with a fireplace of Pennsylvania bluestone and cozy, intimate seating. Look for a private hot tub area and a victory garden for organic greens and herbs installed by sons Luke and Cole in 2020. Banana trees and bamboo lend a tropical vibe here.

For Laura and Dan, their garden is “a labor of love, inspiration and passion. It’s always a work in progress and the dynamic nature of the garden is what keeps it interesting year after year. Watching the plants change as they grow and mature, inspires us to add beauty to our everyday lives, providing a creative outlet that allows us to come back to ourselves again and again.”

Stairs from sidewalk and steps within the garden