COLORADO PRAIRIE

A backyard oasis made with natural materials and a direct connection with the surrounding natural environment.

This back yard oasis was achieved by using several elements in harmony with each other. A seating area, gravel, turf grass and boulders combine for visual and sensual interest.

This south facing patio endured blazing sunshine in the summer months, rendering it useless for comfortable seating. The solution was to build a minimal, modern style pergola sun shade. It now serves as the favorite spot for an after work glass of wine.

Shadows playfully mingle with plants and hardscape objects in the late afternoon hours. Ornamental grasses and native shrubbery will continue to mature over the years, creating a lush and inviting focal point to this artfully designed backyard.

Seamlessly integrating the mature live oak tree into the deck and privacy walls was the primary initiative. Up-lighting was incorporated to provide a welcoming ambiance for twilight dwelling.

Native ornamental grasses and crusher fine paths were used to create this organic and natural landscape in the vernacular of the Colorado Front Range. Minimal water requirements, low maintenance and an effort to support biodiversity habitat for pollinators and local wildlife were the goals.