Bulut/Daysal Residence 32 Severn Street Longmeadow, MA
Corrin Meise-Munns MS Ecological Design, 2016
Thirty-two Severn Street is a 0.8 acre suburban lot in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Home to a young family of five, the property is the site of tiny soccer matches in the backyard, long visits from international friends and family, and evenings spent watching the sunset over views of the Metacomet Range. The property is informed by its canopy of mature oak, its lush perennial plantings, and by its topography, which slopes toward the west. The siting of the home and a large stone retaining wall located in the backyard have created a natural structure for outdoor living space, with the site characterized by hidden nooks, ample space, and long views to the west. The design proposal for 32 Severn Street intends to address the challenges of the steep slope in the backyard, while enhancing and formalizing the qualities of several of the smaller spaces around the property to best serve the social, recreational, and aesthetic values of the client.
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
Contents 4
Introduction to the Project
8
Site Analysis
20
The Value of the Trees
26
Summary Analysis
28
Design Direction
29
Conceptual Designs
36
Final Schematic Design
40
Precedents
42
Planting Plans
48
Suggested Plant Index
50
Conceptual Grading Plan
52
References and Sources
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
Introduction Serap Daysal and Ali Bulut bought their 0.8 acre suburban lot in Longmeadow four years ago to meet the needs of their growing family. With the property’s close proximity to both Forest Park and downtown Springfield, the couple was attracted to the site because of its unique combination of wooded New England beauty and access to urban amenities. The Colonial style home offers year-round views of the Metacomet Range and seasonal views of the Connecticut River to the west. The site is populated with mature oaks and overgrown perennial plantings, which simultaneously add to the wooded aesthetic of the landscape while presenting challenges to maintenance, circulation, and recreational use of the property. As their family continues to mature, Serap and Ali wish to tailor the landscape to reflect the needs of their evolving lifestyles: more open playspace for three young children; a backyard retreat for relaxation and entertainment; and a welcoming environment that unifies the indoor and outdoor experiences.
Not Part ofPart a student andproject not based on anot legal survey.on Notfor forconstruction. construction. of a project student and based
4
Survey Basemap
2 car garage
Main Hall
Formal Living Room
STREET
Kitchen
SEVERN
Family Room
5
Client Requests 1. Integrate the front yard, upper backyard, and lower backyard. In Serap’s words, “a design which pulls us out into the yard.” 2. Design low maintenance border gardens. Allow for more open space for play while maintaining character. 3. Site a possible location for a pool and outdoor shower. In Serap’s words, “a home that feels like a vacation home,” focusing on “comfort and relaxation.”
1 AAA
A Interstate 91 Lower Backyard Upper Backyard Front Yard
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
6
Existing Conditions
A
Unmanaged Area
Lawn
STREET
2 car garage
Deck
Driveway Main Hall
Formal Living Room
Lawn
7.5 15 Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
SEVERN
Kitchen Family Room
A1
Perennial Beds
15 30
7
Ecological Context The client’s property is nestled between two large areas of protected habitat: Forest Park and the Fannie Stebbin’s Wildlife Refuge. The largest swaths of habitat are separated by two major highways, Interstate 91 and Route 5, and wildlife must pass through one or both of these roads and through suburban lots en route to access nearby resources. As Severn Street is located in the path of the shortest distance between Forest Park and the Fannie Stebbins Wildlife Refuge, Serap has mentioned that her backyard is frequented by groups of deer. The presence of wildlife presents opportunities for the children to observe and learn about the local ecosystem from their own home, and for the property owners to provide valuable “stepping stone” habitat for migrating animals like deer and birds. As parents, Serap and Ali are concerned about ticks from the deer transmitting Lyme disease. Any recreational space designed within the west of the property will need to take the presence of the deer into account.
tR
ive
r
Forest Park
Co
nn
ec
ticu
5
32 Severn St Wetlands
91
Stream Protected Habitat Estimated Wildlife Movement
N Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
1/3 mile
8
Environmental Noise The United States Department of Health and Human Services has identified 60 decibels (dB) as being the threshold for comfortable background noise. In a residential area, anything louder is considered a nuisance.1 On October 27, 2015, noise levels on three different locations on the property all measured at 60 dB or higher, with the quietest area being the eastern extreme of the yard and the loudest being at the western extreme. As volume is essentially doubled with the increase of every three dB, the western end of the yard is experienced as being roughly 50 times louder than the eastern end. Given the property’s proximity to Interstate 91, background noise is a constant environmental factor that will influence the proposed location of any recreational areas in the site design.
I-91
60 dB
Comfortable hearing levels are under 60 dB.
70 dB
Roughly ten times louder than the front of the property.
75 dB
Roughly 50 times louder than the front of the property.
1 “I Love What I Hear!: Common Sounds.” National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. April 26, 2012. Accessed November 2, 2015. Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
9
Topography
Examining the topography of Serap and Ali’s property allows us to determine how the slope of the yard both affects current use and informs future design solutions. The property looses approximately 70 feet of elevation from east to west. The steepest loss in elevation occurs on the western end of the property, separating the end of the usable section of the lower backyard and the right-of-way for Interstate 91. The clients have erected a picket fence at the top of that escarpment.
A1
Fence
A
Lower backyard
Front yard Approx. 70 ft
Upper backyard Retaining wall
Escarpment between yard and I-91
5-10% slope
15-20% slope
A
10-15% slope 20-25% slope
A1
N
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
10
Retaining Wall The retaining wall which divides Serap and Ali’s property into upper and lower yards is approximately 5’5” tall and 85’ long. The upper yard, which contains the home, driveway, and deck, controls the domestic zone while the lower yard, consisting mostly of lawn serving as play area for the children, is less frequently used. The stone stairs which connect the upper and lower yards are currently gated with plastic picket fencing to prevent the young children from using them without supervision. While the wall’s condition seems to be structurally sound, gaps are forming in between stones and the wall itself is not level. As the age and previous maintenance regime of the wall is unknown, and the height of the wall is a barrier to easy access to the lower yard, it is worth considering redesigning the wall and regrading the property for easier use and access.
Location of retaining wall
In the lower backyard, the wall forms a 5’5” barrier to the upper backyard and house (below, left). The stone staircase winds upward toward the deck (below, right).
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
11
Zones of Use
Entry to backyard
dangerously steep adjacent to Rt 91 loud weedy & overgrown
freque ntly us ed undev eloped
Buffer
Slope
ornam ental p lanti blocks steep s ngs and 91 lope
spruce act as gate shapes entrance to yard
Acces
s
Backyard
Nook in upper backyard used as corridor ornamental plantings feels like an outdoor room
Entry
children play occasional adult socializing dappled shade spacious turf
car park main entry into home children play adults sit & watch
Gardens
Sideya
rd
periph eral shady weedy
children occasionally play visual interest unmaintained overgrown
Upper backyard
N
children play adults sit & look at view extension of deck perhaps underused
In order to deduce larger patterns of the activities that take place over the site and how specific site features impact or inform these activities, it is important to assess how the clients currently use the property. This information will be useful when determining what we would like to keep of the current design; what we would like to enhance on the property; and what we would like to minimize or remove. While the children use a large portion of the property, the adults make regular use of a relatively small section of the site: that which is immediately surrounding the house. What is it about the area close to the home that makes it welcoming to Serap and Ali’s daily habits, and how can we expand those features into more of the yard?
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
12
Zones of Use Aggregating areas of like-use demonstrates that there are 5 main ways in which Serap and Ali’s family is using the property: domestic activities; recreation; a living buffer between the usable and unusable areas of the property; an unusable, dangerous, and unmanaged area; and an area given to the large existing gardens.
Unmanaged zone
Boundary zone
Domestic zone Recreational zone
Zone given to old gardens
N
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
13
Context: Town of Longmeadow Zoning By-Laws The town of Longmeadow has regulatory zoning by-laws which are meant to promote safety and convenience amongst property owners within the township. These bylaws govern where a homeowner can develop or build specific features or structures. I have illustrated below the zoning bylaws which are of direct importance to Serap and Ali’s goals for their property. From the Town of Longmeadow Zoning Bylaws1: • Severn Street falls into the Longmeadow “A-1 Residential Zone” • As evidenced in the diagram, Serap and Ali’s property line ends 20 feet from the road. Anything planted within the “tree belt,” or town right-of-way, must be approved by the Town of Longmeadow Planning Board before installation. • The Primary and Secondary Setback lines coincide with the front- and rear-facing walls of the house, respectively • Any pool installed within the property cannot exceed 1200 sq ft and must be surrounded by a fence (not to exceed 10’ in height)
Fence Setbacks at least 5’ from rear and side property lines and behind Primary Setback Line
Pool Setbacks at least 15’ from rear property line, 30’ from side property lines, and at least 10’ behind Secondary Setback Line
SEVERN STREET
“Tree Belt” Town Right of Way
Structure Setbacks at least 15’ from rear and side property lines and 40’ from street
Secondary Setback Line Primary Setback Line
N
Property line
1 “Article VI: Area Regulations.” Town of Longmeadow Zoning By-Laws, March 13, 2015. Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
14
Topography
Pool setbacks
With the pool setbacks super-imposed over the slope diagram, we can start to see where a pool might be feasible. The most cost effective place to site a pool or other structure will be in the most naturally level location.
Overlaying the pool setbacks and slope diagram over our illustrative basemap allows us to explore how a pool might fit in to the conditions existing on the site. Much of the area appropriate for siting a pool is situated under the shady canopy of mature oak trees.
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
15
Vegetation & Soils Vegetation The majority of the property falls under a canopy of mature oak. There are 8 red oaks on the property (including one in the unmanaged zone, marked in the map to the right in orange), each measuring approximately 80 feet tall with canopies just as wide. These trees are joined by similarly sized oaks on both neighboring sites, which provide a visual continuity across the properties. The property is populated with smaller ornamental trees, and the front yard is largely occupied by old perennial beds. In existing conditions, the perennial gardens act as obstacles to movement on the property and the oaks shade too much of the yard to allow for a pool. An opportunity exists to design a planting plan that supports the clients’ goals of a cohesive site with room for free play and outdoor gathering spaces. Soil and Plant Tissue Testing Laboratory
203 Paige Laboratory Soils 161 Holdsworth Way Universitythe of Massachusetts Soil test analysis from the University of Massachusetts Cooperative Extension yielded Amherst, MA 01003 Phone: (413) following information regarding soil acidity and nutrient levels. This information will help 545-2311 e-mail: soiltest@umass.edu determine appropriate plants for a low maintenance garden. website: soiltest.umass.edu
Sample Information: Sample ID: CMM YD
Soil Test Report Prepared For: Corrin Meise-Munns Conway School 44 Walnut St Northampton, MA 01060
Order Number: Lab Number: Area Sampled: Received: Reported:
Soil Test Results:
18082 S151023-302 10/23/2015 11/5/2015
meise-munns16@csld.edu
Results Value Optimum Range Found
Analysis
5.1
Soil pH (1:1, H2O) Modified Morgan extractable, ppm Macronutrients Phosphorus (P) Potassium (K) Calcium (Ca) Magnesium (Mg) Sulfur (S) Micronutrients * Boron (B) Manganese (Mn) Zinc (Zn) Copper (Cu) Iron (Fe) Aluminum (Al) Lead (Pb) *
7.8 4-14 42 100-160 829 1000-1500 144 50-120 11.8 >10 0.1 7.3 3.6 0.5 10.0 59 7.6
Value Optimum Range Found
Analysis Cation Exch. Capacity, meq/100g Exch. Acidity, meq/100g Base Saturation, % Calcium Base Saturation Magnesium Base Saturation Potassium Base Saturation Scoop Density, g/cc
13.1 7.6 32 9 1 1.10
50-80 10-30 2.0-7.0
0.1-0.5 1.1-6.3 1.0-7.6 0.3-0.6 2.7-9.4 <75 <22
Micronutrient deficiencies rarely occur in New England soils; therefore, an Optimum Range has never been defined. Values provided represent the normal range found in soils and are for reference only.
Soil Test Interpretation Nutrient
Very Low
Low
Optimum
Above Optimum
Phosphorus (P): Potassium (K): Calcium (Ca): Magnesium (Mg):
1 of 2
Sample ID: CMM YD
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
Lab Number S151023-302
16
Existing Vegetation Map
Hemlock Japanese Maple Unidentified Large, Mature Conifer Blue Spruce Weeping Crabapple
Bradford Pear
Red Oak
European Copper Beech
Weeping Mulberry Rhododendron
Unidentified Ornamental Conifer 2 car garage Forsythia Kitchen
Family Room
Magnolia
Main Hall
Stewartia
Formal Living Room
Blue Spruce Unmanaged vegetative area
Witch Hazel Area reclaimed by fern
Japanese Maple Red Oak
Unmanaged, shrubby area
Weeping Crabapple
Mature deciduous trees; canopy
Redbud
Tree Hydrangea
Conifers
Quince 7.5
Small, ornamental shrubs or trees Perennial beds
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
N
15
White Pine
15
Weeping Maple
Lilac Sugar Maple
30
17
Summer Sun and Shade This sun/shade analysis was conducted for June 22, the Summer Solstice (the day when the sun appears highest in the sky). The analysis gives us a good idea of what areas of the property experience relatively sunny, moderately shady, or shady conditions throughout a summer day. From these diagrams, we can conclude that in its existing condition, very little area of the property escapes the morning shade cast from the mature oak trees located around the propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boundaries. At noon and in the afternoon, much more sun filters through the trees.
Noon
N
8 am
4 pm Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
18
Summer Sun and Shade In the summer, the closest neighboring trees are not casting any shade over Serap and Aliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backyard and so do not need to be considered when designing for sunny gathering locations, such as a pool. With the removal of two of the large oaks located on the southern boundary and one of the large oaks located along the northern boundary, there is increased sun exposure in the backyard.
Neighboring trees, June 22, noon
N
Neighboring trees June 22, noon
Existing conditions June 22, noon
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
Selected tree removal June 22, noon
19
Context: The Value of Trees When considering the assets and constraints presented by the nine mature red oaks on Serap and Ali’s property, it is easy to focus on their visible effects: shade; dropped leaves and acorns; majestic canopies; and a sense of privacy. However, every tree also provides myriad unseen attributes to a landscape. Although these can be hard to measure, some research has been done to quantify the financial values of trees of differing species and maturities. According to the National Tree Benefit Calculator, each 24” diameter red oak in Serap and Ali’s property provides overall benefits worth $233 each year. From the National Tree Benefit Calculator: “While some functional benefits of trees are well documented, others are difficult to quantify (e.g., human social and communal health). Trees’ specific geography, climate, and interactions with humans and infrastructure is highly variable and makes precise calculations that much more difficult.”
Annual Monetary Value of Red Oaks
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
20
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
21
Context: The Value of Trees Information gleaned from National Tree Benefit Calculator1: Stormwater Each one of the nine mature oaks will intercept about 3,599 gallons of stormwater runoff this year. This is especially important given the property’s close proximity to the Connecticut River. Urban stormwater runoff washes chemicals (oil, gasoline, salts, etc.) and litter from surfaces such as roadways and parking lots into streams, wetlands, rivers and oceans. Trees act as mini-reservoirs, controlling runoff at the source. Trees reduce runoff by: • Intercepting and holding rain on leaves, branches and bark. • Increasing infiltration and storage of rainwater through the tree’s root system. • Reducing soil erosion by slowing rainfall before it strikes the soil.
Image credit: National Tree Benefit Calculator
The diagram below illustrates the flow of runoff downhill to the Connecticut River. Using trees and other plantings as stormwater runoff “mini-reservoirs” filters the pollutants entering into the river.
CT River
Runoff
1 “National Tree Benefit Calculator.” National Tree Benefit Calculator. Accessed November 10, 2015. Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
22
Context: The Value of Trees Energy Trees modify climate and conserve building energy use in three principal ways: • Shading reduces the amount of heat absorbed and stored by buildings. • Evapotranspiration converts liquid water to water vapor and cools the air by using solar energy that would otherwise result in heating of the air. • Tree canopies slow down winds thereby reducing the amount of heat lost from a home, especially where conductivity is high (e.g., glass windows).
Image credit: National Tree Benefit Calculator
Property Value Trees in front of single family homes have a greater property value benefit than those in front of multi-family homes, parks or commercial properties. Real estate agents have long known that trees can increase the “curb appeal” of properties thereby increasing sale prices. Research has verified this by showing that home buyers are willing to pay more for properties with ample versus few or no trees. Reducing Carbon in the Atmosphere Carbon is one of the leading greenhouse gases contributing to climate change. This year each red oak tree can reduce atmospheric carbon by 891 pounds, about the same amount as a mid-sized sedan traveling 12,000 miles. Trees can have an impact by reducing atmospheric carbon in two primary ways (see graph to the right): • Trees sequester (“lock up”) CO2 in their roots, trunks, stems and leaves while they grow, and in wood products after they are harvested. • Trees near buildings can reduce heating and air conditioning demands, thereby reducing emissions associated with power production.
Image credit: National Tree Benefit Calculator
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
23
Circulation The current patterns of circulation around Serap and Aliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property prevent the property from feeling like a cohesive unit. Movement is confused about the property, with the pedestrian feeling unsure as to the best or most efficient way to access certain points about the yard. Established paths are not properly graded for safe or comfortable walking, and pathways are either unlined or lined with old pavers, misaligned with age. There is opportunity to design a cohesive experience of the landscape, while offering points of interest along paths and safer, more comfortable walking conditions.
A large stone retaining wall divides the backyard into two areas of use (above).
Path around the south side of the home connecting front and back yards (left).
Path around the north side of the home connecting front and back yards (right).
Nearly the entire front of house is given to the parking area.
Not Part ofPart a student andproject not based on anot legal survey.on Notfor forconstruction. construction. of a project student and based
24
Circulation
4
5
2 car garage
STREET
3
2
Family Room
SEVERN
6 Kitchen Main Hall Formal Living Room
1
Path through yard is constrained due to large areas of overgrown plantings
2
Driveway too narrow to accommodate turnaroud
3
Path from main door to backyard is circuitous and uninteresting
4 5 6 7
1
7
Small grove of ornamental spruces act as gate to backyard All paths to backyard are indirect & steep Retaining wall presents obstacles in accessing backyard Formal stone stairs to lower backyard are beautiful access point but appear steep & formidable 25
Site Assets
2
3
1
4 5
6
1
Driveway: curved path forms dynamic entry; allows visitors to view progressive aspects of property and home
2
Mature trees: majestic & add continuity to the landscape; privacy & shade in spring & summer
3
Ornamental trees: plantings add form, color, and grace to landscape; form a barrier to slope & Rt 91
4
Stone walls: create outdoor room close to house; add structure to property; classic New England style. Stone stairs are sculptural
5
Colonial style house: traditional New England style; nestled into gardens and landscape
6
Perennial beds: add grandeur and elements of human empathy to property; dynamic & offer aesthetic focal points
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
26
Site Constraints
3
5 6
1
4 2 7
1
Mature trees: shade dominates landscape
2
Parking area: too much given to car; pavement dominates entry to home
3
Main access to backyard: shaded & drab; circuitous from kitchen door
4
Retaining wall: divides yard; presents obstacle when accessing property
5
Steep slope: leads to Rt 91; dangerous for children
6
Noise from Rt 91: pervasive around property
7
Stone stairs: present challenge & concern for youngest child
8
Perennial beds: overgrown, unkempt, & high maintenance
9
Circulation in front yard: constrained
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
8
9
27
Design Direction Summary Statements 1
The property lacks a coherent strategy for circulation and access, which detracts from client goals of relaxation and a landscape design that pulls them out into the property.
2
The large, mature oaks and the dense perennial beds contradict client goals of having a sunny, open, low maintenance property.
3
Proximity to Interstate 91 challenges the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ideal of a vacation-home-like landscape, but lush plantings, a spacious backyard, and a hand-built stone retaining wall add to an ambiance of New England country estate.
Program 1
Improve circulation around the property.
2
Design a sunny, low maintenance landscape
3
Design a destination spot that will serve as a focal point for year-round outdoor activities.
Design Direction 1
Design paths and landscape rooms which connect areas of the property in a fluid, intriguing way.
2
Design perennial, microclimate appropriate border gardens which help frame the property as a cohesive unit while simultaneously strategically removing old gardens and mature trees which interfere with desired use.
3
Design a pool and amenities with at least three season utility.
4
Design a planting screen along western boundary to mask winter views of I-91 and discourage deer crossing into lawn.
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
28
Conceptual Designs
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
29
Conceptual Design / Low Input This concept focuses on creating solutions by simply augmenting existing site features. Major features • “Natural pool”: chemical free, 4 season destination spot • Removes selected trees to create sunnier conditions in the property rear • Strategic dense plantings minimize winter views of I-91 and keep migrating deer from entering the recreational area of the backyard • Parking area replaced with concrete pavers, allowing for both parking and pedestrian use. • Opens lawn for children to play • Destination spots entice clients into yard
Considerations • Retaining wall still acts as an obstacle and divides property • Noise from 1-91 is a nuisance at pool site • Parking still dominates entrance
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
30
Tentatively Called: “The Natural Pond” Shade-tolerant compact flowering shrubs
Combination parking area/patio hardscaping
Ex. retaining wall
Existing driveway
Deer deflecting hedge
Sunset courtyard
2 car garage
STREET
Pool ~ 20’x40’ & pool house 10’ x 12’
Lawn Kitchen
Family Room
SEVERN
Seating area
Main Hall
Open-sided deck
Short evergreen visual screen
Formal Living Room
Japanese garden
Lawn
Selectively removed oaks
Low maintenance perennial borders Ex. stone retaining wall
Ex. mature deciduous tree
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
Ex. ornamental conifer
Ex. ornamental deciduous tree
31
Conceptual Design / Close to Home “Close to Home” brings design solutions to the area of the property already used the most: the home.
Major features • Expands area above the retaining wall by 25’ (doubling the size of the upper backyard) • Creates more recreational space close to the domestic center in both front and back yards • Sites driveway closer to road, decreasing winter maintenance and increasing yard space • Patio for the kitchen means easy access to home amenities and gathering space away from loudest traffic noise • Garage converted into home studio or in-law apartment
Considerations • 9’ tall retaining wall makes rest of lower yard undesirable for use • Added grading needed for drive, wall, and pool
A1
A Evergreen visual screen
Low grow woody massing
Pool 12’ x 24’
Upper backyard ~ 50’ from house
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
Kitchen patio
Stabilizing planting 4:1 slope
Driveway 35’ long; 6% slope Parking 20’ wide; 2% slope
32
Re-graded and expanded stone retaining wall
Kitchen patio Shade-tolerant compact flowering shrubs
New driveway 8.5% slope
A
Kitchen
Family Room
Short evergreen visual screen
SEVERN
Pool 12x24
STREET
Converted studio / inlaw apartment
Main Hall Lawn Formal Living Room
Low growing woody massing
A1 Lawn expanded by 23 ft; doubled in size
Lawn
Japanese-style garden
Ex. mature deciduous tree
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
Ex. white pine Ex. ornamental deciduous tree
33
Conceptual Design / Uniting the Landscape This concept suggests minimizing the dividing impact of the current retaining wall by filling a portion of the lower backyard. Major features • Level area of backyard extends 60’ from the retaining wall • Reduces height of retaining wall by 3’; transforms from a barrier to a site feature • Retains more overall backyard space than previous design • Creates more recreational space close to the domestic center in both front and back yards • Re-sites driveway closer to road; decreasing winter maintenance and increasing yard space • Patio for the kitchen means easy access to home amenities and gathering space away from loudest traffic noise • Garage converted into home studio or in-law apartment
Considerations • Reduces current size of lower backyard by half • Added grading needed for drive • Expense of fill for backyard • Possible fill might be cut from current backyard slope toward 91?
A1
A
Slope stabilizing massing 4:1
Evergreen visual screen
Lower backyard ~ 60’ from house; 2% slope
Kitchen patio
Stabilizing planting 4:1 slope
Driveway 35’ long; 6% slope Parking 20’ wide; 2% slope
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
34
Ex. stone retaining wall Kitchen patio Slope stabilizing planting
Shade-tolerant compact flowering shrubs
New 2 car driveway 8.5% slope A
Slope stabilizing planting 4:1 slope
Sunset Courtyard
Seating Area
Kitchen
Family Room
SEVERN
Filled Lawn
STREET
Converted Studio / Inlaw Apartment
Main Hall Open-sided Deck
Formal Living Room
Japanese Garden
Lawn
A1
Short evergreen visual screen Ornamental massing to obscure fencing
Low maintenance perennial borders
Ornamental tree
Ex. mature deciduous tree
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
Ex. ornamental conifer
Ex. ornamental deciduous tree
35
Schematic Design The final design proposes to optimize backyard living space by both lengthening the upper backyard and building tiered retaining walls. A sunken patio and pool allow the upper backyard to remain open for free play. The patio, recessed halfway between the yard and the pool, unites the two and will serve as the social hub in the summer. When not monitoring the pool from either the upper backyard or the patio, adults can relax in the adjoining hot tub while facing the beautiful waterfall feature flowing from the upper yard. In the front of the home, the gravel driveway turn-around has been replaced with permeable pavers which double as a turn-around for cars and an attractive pathway linking the driveway to the front door. An attractive entry garden massing of shade-tolerant shrubs hide parked cars from view as visitors pull in, and a ground cover of bunchberry and foamflower visually connect the entry garden to the new foundation planting. The proposed foundation garden brings color and structure to the front of the home, with plants of varied height and texture accenting the houseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colonial facade. Both the northern and the southern side yards are enlivened with colorful, shade tolerant plants. The southern side yard is transformed into a private Japanese garden; the perfect foil to the more social uses of the patio and pool. Meant to encourage serenity and understated pleasure, the Japanese garden is outfitted with two simple chairs and a small fountain, all oriented to face the magnificent view of the Metacomet Range.
Japanese garden
Lawn
Pool Waterfall
Patio
Hot tub
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
36
Plant stablized slope Waterfall Permeable pavers for driveway turn-around Entry garden
Pool
Shrubby visual screen
Patio
Japanese garden
10
20
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
Foundation plantings
37
Proposed Sections
10
20
A1
A
A1
10
20
A
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
38
20
B1
B
10
B
B1
10
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
20
39
Precedent: Japanese Gardens
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
40
Precedent: Pool, Hot Tubs, and Water Features
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
41
Planting Plan: Backyard All of the plants selected for the backyard have been chosen to best suit the sunny, slightly acidic proposed conditions in that area. The 33% slope behind the patio and pool is populated with perennials known to control erosion. The suggested shrubs act as short visual screens that will not inhibit the upper backyard view of the Connecticut River but will hide the winter views of I-91. The proposal suggests letting the remainder of the backyard succeed into meadow. This does not require any additional planting, but allowing the grass and native wildflowers to grow. This area can be mowed once every two years to ensure no woody plants take hold. Choosing plants appropriate to site conditions is a solid basis for a low maintenance garden. For more information on each plant, please see the Suggested Plant Index on pages 48-49. Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Butterfly weed Asclepias tuberosa
Showy evening primrose Oenothera speciosa
Little bluestem Schizachyrium scoparium
Prairie dropseed Sporobolis heterolepis
Wrinkleleaf goldenrod Solidago rugosa
Broomsedge Andropogon virginicus
American holly Ilex opaca
Winterberry Ilex verticillata Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
42
Slope stabilizing perennial and grass massing
Winterberry massing
Weeping mulberry (transplant existing)
American holly hedge Winterberry massing Fringe tree â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Spring Fleecingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (see pg 46) 10
20 Proposed vegetation is labeled; existing is unmarked.
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
43
Planting Plan: Foundation and Entry Gardens All of the plants selected for the entry and foundation gardens have been chosen to best suit the shady, slightly acidic preexisting conditions found in that area. Choosing plants appropriate to site conditions is a solid basis for a low maintenance garden. For more information on each plant, please see the Suggested Plant Index on pages 48-49.
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Bunchberry Cornus canadensis
‘Sugar and Spice’ foamflower Tiarella cordifolia ‘Sugar and Spice’
Cumberland azalea Rhododendron cumberlandense
Dog hobble/fetter bush Leucothoe fontanesiana
Low red shadbush Amelanchier sanguinea
Mountain laurel Kalmia latifolia
Common witch hazel Hamamelis virginiana
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
44
Cumberland azalea and dog hobble
Mountain laurel massing
Low red shadbush
Witch hazel massing
Bunchberry ground cover
Foamflower massing
Foamflower massing
Bunchberry ground cover
10
Mountain laurel
20 Proposed vegetation is labeled; existing is unmarked.
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
45
Planting Plan: Japanese Garden All of the plants selected for the Japanese garden have been chosen to best suit the lightly shady, slightly acidic proposed conditions found in that area. Choosing plants appropriate to site conditions is a solid basis for a low maintenance garden. For more information on each plant, please see the Suggested Plant Index on pages 48-49. The proposed plants for the Japanese garden need soil rich in hummusy organic material, and would benefit from planting into a top layer of decomposed wood chips. Every fall, leaves can be raked directly into the planting beds to maintain a layer of mulch. Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Bunchberry Cornus canadensis
Mapleleaf viburnum Virburnum aceforlium
Japanese painted fern Athyrium niponicum var. ‘Pictum’
Witch-alder Fothergilla major
Mountain laural Kalmia latifolia
Fringe tree ‘Spring Fleecing’ Chionanthus virginicus
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
46
Mapleleaf virburnum massing Seating and fountain, facing the view of the mountains
Bunchberry ground cover
Fringe tree â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Spring Fleecingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;
Witch-alder hedge
Mountain laurels
Japanese painted fern massing
10
20 Proposed vegetation is labeled; existing is unmarked.
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
47
Suggested Plant Index
Common Name
Botanical Name
Shrubs (Visual Screens)
Slope Stabilizng Grasses and Perennials
Foundation, Entry Garden, & North Path Plantings
Japanese Garden
Bunchberry
Cornus canadensis
Mapleleaf virburnum Virburnum acerfolium Witch-alder
Fothergilla major
Japanese painted fern
Athyrium niponicum var. 'Pictum'
Mountain laurel
Kalmia latifolia
White fringe tree "Spring Fleecing"
Chioanthus virginicus 'Spring Fleecing'
Type
Height/Spread
Soil
deciduous shrub deciduous shrub deciduous shrub ornamental fern broadleaf evergreen
height 3"-9"; width 6"-1' height 3'-6'/width 2'-4' height 6'10''/width 5'-9' height .5'1.5'/width 1.5'-2' height 5'-15'; width 5'-15' height 10'-15'; width 10'-15'
slightly acid; hummusy neutral to slightly acidic neutral to slightly acidic
small tree
hummusy
Sun
Wate
part shade
mediu
full sun to part shade full sun to part shade part shade to full shade
mediu
mediu
mediu
acid, well drained
part shade
mediu
tolerant
sun to light shade
moderat wet
Common Name
Botanical Name
Type
Height/Spread
Soil
Sun
Wa
Bunchberry
Cornus canadensis
deciduous shrub
height 3"-9"; width 6"-1'
slightly acid; hummusy
part shade
medi
Sugar & Spice foamflower
Tiarella cordifolia 'Sugar and Spice'
herbaceous perennial
height .5'-1.5'; width .5'-1.5'
neutral to acid
Cumberland azalea
Rhododendron cumberlandense (bakeri)
broadleaf evergreen
height 3'-5'; width 3'-4'
neutral to acid
sun to shade
mediu mo
Dog hobble/fetter bush
Leucothoe fontanesiana
broadleaf evergreen
height 3'-6'; width 3'-6'
acid
part shade
mediu mo
Low red shadbush
Amelanchier sanguinea
deciduous shrub
part shade to shade
medi
Mountain laurel
Kalmia latifolia
broadleaf evergreen
height 5'-15'; width 5'-15'
acid, well drained
part shade
medi
Common Witch Hazel
Hamamelis virginiana
deciduous shrub
height 15'-20'; width 15-20''
tolerant
sun to part shade
medi
Common Name
Botanical Name
Type
height 3'-8'; width neutral to acid 3'-8'
Height/Spread
herbaceous height 1'-2'6"; width 1'-1'6" perennial herbaceous height 1'-3'; width perennial 1.5'-2'
Butterfly weed
Ascelpias tuberosa
Showy evening primrose
Oenothera speciosa
Little bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium
grass
Prairie dropseed
Sporobolus heterolepis
Wrinkleleaf goldenrod
Soil
part to full mediu mo shade
Sun
Wate
medium dry dry to mediu
acid/neutral
full sun
neutral
full sun
height 2'-3'
acid/neutral
full sun
grass
height 2'-3'
neutral
full sun
mediu
Solidago rugosa
herbaceous perennial
height 2'-5'
neutral
full sun
mediu
Broomsedge
Adropogon virginicus
grass
height 3'-5'
acid/neutral
American holly
Ilex opaca
Winterberry
Ilex verticillata
broadleaf evergreen broadleaf evergreen
height 15'-20'; width 10'-20' height 3'-12'; width 3'-12'
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
acid/neutral acid/neutral
full sun to medium mois part shade full sun to part shade full sun to part shade 48
moder
moder
un
hade
to part ade to part ade ade to hade
Water
Bloom Time/Color
Foliage Season/Color
Applications
Notes
medium
late spring to summer/white
autumn foliage, ground cover
medium
summer/white
edible fruit; tolerates deer; attracts butterflies attracts birds, butterflies
medium
late spring to summer/white
medium
nonflowering
spring through summer/green; autumn/red spring and summer/green; autumn/red to purple spring through summer/green; fall/ red silvery green with contrasting maroon ribs
late spring/pinkish white late spring to early summer/white
foliage, hedge foilage, hedge, specimen
drought tolerant
foliage
already growing on southside of house
hedge, winter interest, flowers flowering tree; autumn color
evergreen
deer resistant
hade
medium
o light ade
moderate to wet
Sun
Water
Bloom Time/Color
Foliage Season/Color
Applications
Notes
t shade
medium
late spring to summer/white
spring through summer/green; autumn/red
autumn foliage, ground cover
edible fruit; tolerates deer; attracts butterflies
spring though summer/green and accent, texture, maroon; fall/bronze border
attracts butterflies; deer resistant
spring and summer/green; fall/yellow
attracts songbirds; fragrant blooms
rt to full medium to moist shade
late spring to early summer/light pink
medium to moist
late spring to early summer/crimson
evergreen
borders, small spaces
deer resistant
t shade
medium to moist
late spring/white
evergreen
borders
deer resistant
t shade shade
medium
late spring/white
spring and summer/green; fall/red
t shade
medium
late spring/pinkish white
evergreen
hedge, winter interest, flowers
deer resistant
n to part shade
medium
late spring to early summer/white
spring and summer/green; fall/yellow
flowering tree; autumn color
attracts songbirds; fragrant blooms
Water
Bloom Time/Color
sun to shade
Sun
ull sun
ull sun
medium to dry dry to medium
summer/orange late spring through summer/rosy pink
Foliage Season/Color summer/green
ull sun
medium
late summer/pink, yellow, green, and brown
spring through fall/green spring through summer/bluegreen; fall and winter/red and white spring through fall/green; winter/gold
ull sun
medium
summer/yellow
spring through fall/green
ull sun
orange
sun to medium to moist t shade
sun to t shade sun to t shade
moderate moderate
insignificant
late spring/white (insignificant) late spring/white (insignificant)
Applications
Notes
color and texture accents visual interest, erosion control winter interest, erosion control visual interest, erosion control
deer resistant, attracts butterflies and birds attracts birds, controls erosion
erosion control
spring through summer/green; fall winter interest, and winter/gold erosion control
attracts birds, controls erosion attracts birds, controls erosion attracts butterflies
evergreen
winter interest, visual screen
deer tolerant, attracts birds
spring & summer/dark green; fall/bronze
winter interest
controls erosion, attracts birds
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
49
Conceptual Grading Plan While the front and side yards retain their existing topography, considerable attention needs to be paid to the grading of the backyard. In the proposed design, the upper backyard supports a gentle slope of 3 percent. This slope, along with small swales, is designed to keep water moving away from the house. The water flows toward a drain located along the stone wall which divides the upper backyard and the pool (see spot elevations). There are similar drains located on each of the three levels of the tiered backyard system, each designed to daylight on the other side of the closest hardscaping edge. The 33% slope extending from the western edges of the pool and patio meets existing grade at elevation 76. The slope will need to be covered with jute erosion control netting before being plant stabilized with native grasses and perennials (see Planting Plan: Backyard on page 42). The proposed slope contours meet existing contours as close to the property boundary as possible to ensure as gentle a slope as possible. Along the north property boundary, the proposed contours meet the existing contours in way which allows the continuation of an existing drainage swale.
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
50
102
101
100
99
98
97
96
92
x88
93
91
83 84 85 86 87
x86
95
94
x85.6
x85.1 x85.5
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
92
92 x87.75
90
x85
89
x87.4 88
83
x83.75
x84
x85.1
70
91
x84 x87.75 x87.2
76 77 78 79 80 81 82
75
74
73
72
71
x83.45 x83.4
93
x88
92
91
x83.3
86 87
84 85
83
82 x83.1
51
References & Image Sources
“I Love What I Hear!: Common Sounds.” National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. April 26, 2012. Accessed November 2, 2015. “Article VI: Area Regulations.” Town of Longmeadow Zoning By-Laws, March 13, 2015. “National Tree Benefit Calculator.” National Tree Benefit Calculator. Accessed November 10, 2015.
Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
52