Custom Flooding Solution at Stunning Lakeside Residence

Posted on April 9, 2021

[vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” text_align=”left” background_animation=”none” css_animation=””][vc_column][vc_column_text]Perched on top of a small hill, the Cederna residence is a stunning property with views to match. From the back door, it is just a few short steps to the lake, via a natural stone staircase installed by a previous contractor. The surrounding foliage and trees cast dappled shadows over the lawn, meaning the garden offers an ever-shifting mix of light and shade as the sun moves across the sky. 

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the property is the elaborate retaining wall, which has the appearance of welded wire, rather than standard segmental blocks. This contemporary design is echoed by the dark gray cladding of the house itself, which is sleek yet somehow welcoming. 

Lotus has been tending to the Cederna residence since 2017 and we have had the pleasure to see it evolve through the years. Though happy with the property, the client had been plagued by problems with water runoff, leading to issues with flooding. After several years of suffering the impact, they decided it was time to fix the problem once and for all.

Our design team engineered a custom dry creek system to allow water to drain from the top of the hill down the foot, without pooling or creating boggy patches. The client was keen not to spoil the aesthetic of the property, so the team worked hard to ensure that every inch of the creek was in fitting with the contemporary feel of its surroundings. 

With the dry creek in place, we were free to begin work on the ornamental planting section of the job. The client is a dog lover, and with two Labradoodles and a constant flow of foster puppies coming through the door, needed plants that could withstand pets. We used a medley of ornamental grasses to create texture, opting for varieties that would repel hungry deer. 

The Cederna doctors were looking for a selection of colorful flowers to add vibrancy to the dark backdrop of the house. The aim was to maintain the cool palette, whilst still adding gorgeous pops of color, avoiding overly warm tones like pink, yellow, or red. We used a selection of purple coral bells and silver foliage, which created a cool, calm character. 

To round the project off we completed a small area of hardscaping at the base of the hill, which becomes the site of a firepit when we return to the property in a few months.  

Design: Lauren Yelen

Install: Lotus Gardenscapes[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]