DINING PATIO is well under way!

© Darcy Daniels Bluestone Squares & Recs

Rectilinear bluestone was selected for the floor in the dining area to complement the underlying geometric pattern of the hardscape surrounding the new studio. (Click here to see the garden plan). The apparent formality of the pattern will be toned down by exuberant plantings lapping at its edge.

In preparation for laying the stone, the area was excavated to a depth of approximately 8”and a layer of coarse gravel was installed. Next a thick layer of sand was brought in, on which the stone was laid. That is the phase of the project that these images portray.

© Darcy Daniels Niall of Pete Wilson Stoneworks

© Darcy Daniels Niall tamping stones in place

Craftsman at Work
Pete Wilson Stoneworks is installing the dining patio pictured here and will also be installing the seat wall in the small courtyard off the studio. Niall, one of his craftsmen, is pictured here laying the patio stone. Each piece is hand selected, precisely leveled, and tamped firmly in place to create an enduring and handsome surface.

a remodel update ...

© 2006 Darcy Daniels
Norman putting the finishing touches on one of the garden gates

Finally something visually discernible to post! I've been delaying this update, waiting for something worthy of photographing and posting. I am happy to report that the fence/trellis along the south side of the property is largely complete. The intention is to create an open, neighborly division that will double as vine support along the back of the vegetable garden created by the geometric raised beds. The fence and gates are being built by Norman McBride.

So, things are certainly moving along, albeit slowly. I am told that the studio will be ready for me to move into by mid-February. The garden renovations are not likely to be complete by then, but we should be well under way and in good shape to complete in March. Some of the initial site prep has already been done in order to lay the groundwork for the big push which will commence the first part of February. That phase will include the construction of the dining patio and the courtyard seat wall. Once the dining patio is complete a small deck/landing will be built off the back of the house.

I’ll post more progress shots as soon as there is anything to see!