Sackett St

Terraces and an enveloping pond -- for peace and tranquility in a small garden

The pond is larger than might be expected. Yet because of its changes in direction, wide capstones that act as seating walls, and the mirror effect of the retaining/seating wall on the other side of the patio, the pond envelops rather than overwhelms the small space.

Multi-level design makes the most of the very slight grade changes -- emphasizing changes in textures and materials as the grades change. The lower dining level and pond use formal, rectangular bluestone. The steps are curved, to make a gentle transition to a softly informal upper level paved with river stones.

Keeping an existing plum tree in the center of the upper patio adds to its informality – and also demonstrates another aspect of this garden’s design. There is little separation between hardscape and planting. From maples and grasses that arch over the pond, to Creeping Jenny that obscures the edges, to Cotoneasters that share the seating wall -- one is always in the garden rather than looking at it.