Stephan Simmons

Builds / Exterior transformation

Hardscape

Grading, concrete, gates, cedar fencing, a pergola, gravel, and lighting.

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Hardscape project photograph 21

Exterior transformation

A site rebuilt in layers.

The front court and backyard were rebuilt as one system of concrete, gravel, cedar, gates, lighting, and covered outdoor space. Keeping the groundwork visible makes the finished site easier to understand.

86bags of marble gravel
28 yd³concrete
04custom gates
02dump-truck loads of gravel
01pergola

Shed wired + temperature controlled · Lighting throughout

01

Existing conditions

The front yard and backyard began as lawn, narrow concrete walks, a small paved seating area, and an existing shed.

Existing conditions, photograph 1
Existing conditions, photograph 2
Existing conditions, photograph 3
02

Plan and grade

A measured plan fixed the house, shop, surface areas, and gate locations. Excavation and gravel base then established the new levels and circulation.

Plan and grade, photograph 1
Plan and grade, photograph 2
Plan and grade, photograph 3
Plan and grade, photograph 4
Plan and grade, photograph 5
03

Form and pour

Reinforcement and formwork set the front court before the larger backyard pour. The project used 28 cubic yards of concrete.

Form and pour, photograph 1
Form and pour, photograph 2
Form and pour, photograph 3
04

Edges and access

Cedar screens and four custom gates manage the transitions at the sidewalk, side path, and alley. Marble gravel completes the perimeter edges.

Edges and access, photograph 1
Edges and access, photograph 2
Edges and access, photograph 3
Edges and access, photograph 4
Edges and access, photograph 5
Edges and access, photograph 6
Edges and access, photograph 7
Edges and access, photograph 8
05

Covered courtyard

One pergola anchors the finished backyard. Lighting throughout and a wired, temperature-controlled shed complete the outdoor space.

Covered courtyard, photograph 1
Covered courtyard, photograph 2
Covered courtyard, photograph 3
Covered courtyard, photograph 4
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