MODERN HABITAT LANDSCAPE
For this property its genius loci - spirit of place - was evident from the start. The previous owners had planted an arboretum's-worth of specimen trees and shrubs that were mature and overgrown. IDDLA's first task was to develop a plant inventory to determine plant preservation priorities: identifying what could be transplanted, what needed to be removed, and what should be protected in place. The spirit of this project is also largely influenced by the adjacent Mass Audubon's Habitat property & wetland, as well as the owners' commitment to nurturing a rich wildlife habitat.
Our planting design knits together these two typologies - the unique specimen quality of the arboretum-like plantings with a looser, textural native plant palette - while providing a striking contrast to the bold geometries of the hardscape and architectural design.
The owners envisioned a home that fosters seamless indoor-outdoor living, entertaining, and recreation. Working with green architects, ZeroEnergy Design, we designed the deck and pool courtyard to maximize movement between indoor and outdoor spaces while capturing expansive views. IDDLA's hardscape and lighting design strategies emphasized bold, lifted horizontals - you see this in the floating, formed concrete entry landings and the long, elevated sustainable wood deck - which create a striking interplay with the surrounding textures of the plantings. Sustainability remained a guiding principle throughout - from the durable, modified wood used for all the wood landscape elements (deck, hot tub coping, shower, built-in bench) to site-reclaimed boulders forming the sport court retaining walls, and the low-maintenance native plant palette that enhances habitat while reducing irrigation needs.
To manage costs effectively, we phased the project over multiple years and kept new plantings small. Phase 1 installation focused on areas closest to the house, a sports lawn, and a multi-sport court.
SCOPE: Site Planning, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documentation, & Construction Oversight
LOCATION: Belmont, MA
