The Long Table

It’s always exciting to illustrate how a few uncomplicated changes can transform your home. Although we’ll still add a courtyard in front, I’ve been anxious to share this Austin project with you.

BEFORE

AFTER

1.PAINT + NEW PATHWAY

Since the original pathway was a bit narrow I really wanted to open it up to allow for more walking space. We then dressed it with Silver Mist flagstone and added a decomposed granite (DG) pathway to the left. Eventually, we’ll add another DG pathway on the right leading towards a sitting area.

We added Silver Mist flagstone to the front porch as well in order to create continuity between the two spaces.

2.PLANTS

I chose plants with a lot of structure, and once established, are reasonably drought tolerant; plants like Dwarf Yaupon Holly, Nellie Stevens, Boxwood and Agave.

Testing out the artichoke plant with planter

My client’s dog and I watching the progress

3.EXTERIOR SHUTTERS, NUMBERS + HARDWARE

Some of my favorite things to add to the exterior of a home are light fixtures, hardware and anything that will give it a bit of character. Here we added the address which will be lit at night, exterior shutters and beautiful light fixtures that will softly light the walkway to the front door.

BEFORE

BEFORE

Because I’ve been working on this project since 2010, starting with the interior, it’s going to be really hard to let this one go. It’s been so much fun working with the clients, I wouldn’t mind if the project went another 7 years!

Next time — before & after photos of a landscape project along the California Coast.

  Cheers!

~ Shannon