Cathedral View

This family purchased two adjacent properties in NW Washington with plans to create a single residence. The project included a primary home and a full-size guest house, which went to the driveway. Our scope of work encompassed marrying the two buildings with the installation of a shared granite driveway, electric gates, drainage solutions, a sports court, an in-ground trampoline, a playset, steppingstone paths, a dining patio, along with lush, healthy plantings, turf, irrigation, and lighting throughout. Our Maintenance Department has been maintaining this Grand Award-winning property since implementation.

Street-Side Screening – A perfectly pruned hedge of Nellie Stevens Holly provides privacy along the property border. The holly is accented by layers of Azalea, Hydrangea, and Liriope, which is echoed along the brick city sidewalk.

Revealing the Front Entry – At the end of the holly hedge, lower plantings of boxwood frame the front of the house. Extensive soil replacement was performed to ensure the long-term health and vitality of the plantings.

Visual Connection Between Homes – A view from the opposite direction highlights the guest house. The repetition of the plant palette, including Crape Myrtles, visually ties the two buildings together.

Granite Cobble Driveway – Our masons crafted a stunning black granite cobble driveway between the two homes, set on a concrete slab with mortared joints for durability and style.

Private Sport Court – A sport court, tucked behind the guest house, provides a private space for exercise and recreation—an uncommon amenity in the city.

Spaces for Children – Looking the other way, the backyard reflects the client’s dedication to their children. Moveable sports equipment can be placed on the lawn, while permanent play structures are thoughtfully positioned along the back border.

Playground Features – A swing set with an attached playhouse and an in-ground trampoline were installed by our crews, creating a vibrant play area for the children.

Artificial Turf for Year-Round Use – Artificial turf was installed beneath and around the playground equipment, eliminating mud and ensuring usability in all seasons. Beyond the playground, the pool serves as a fun and relaxing retreat for the entire family.

View Toward the House – Looking back toward the house, a stone staircase connects the lower yard to the upper terrace, offering a transition between spaces.

Stairway to the Upper Terrace – An inviting stone stairway leads to the upper terrace. Seasonal annuals in the planters are refreshed by our crews three times a year.

Upper Terrace Features – The upper terrace lawn panel is surrounded by three distinct outdoor spaces: a grill with cabinetry, a cozy stone fire pit with seating, and a dining patio for al fresco meals.

Geo-Grid Lawn System – The upper terrace lawn, installed over a Geo-grid system, was designed to handle tents and large gatherings without significant damage. Comprehensive grading, soil enhancement, managed irrigation, and expert installation ensure the health and vibrancy of the plants and turf.