Recently, a client mentioned that he felt his backyard reminded him of a person who was getting a second chance in life. It was an interesting analogy, and it rang true. Quite often we read about a “tear down house” on a valuable piece of property. In our office, every single day, we discuss how to improve the outside living area of an existing home that needs a full makeover.
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Complete renovation of the property and home (Photo: CP Complete, Stacy Wickham Photography) |
If you’ve just purchased a home and you are looking at an antiquated swimming pool, a tennis court that has seen better days or an area of land that can be cleared for a pavilion and fireplace, you may be ready to breathe a second life into your property.
These reclamation projects are often more focused than new construction. Obtaining permits can be easier with existing structures in place. The homeowner can also be more focused and attentive to the task at hand. We encounter many clients who have looked out their back window and pictured exactly what they would do if they could, and now they can. Working with a design/build landscape firm allows for a seamless transition from old to new, making the process of this newly expanded vision go quickly. Houzz.com defines design/build as a “different model (that) is becoming quite popular. Instead of dividing tasks between separate architecture and construction companies, you can hire a full-service firm to design and build your entire project, from initial sketches through final construction.”
Renovating an existing landscape allows the homeowner to customize their surroundings in a more specific fashion. It significantly changes what had previously been built for someone else’s home. There is an opportunity to create a customized retreat for you that your family and friends can enjoy.
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Complete renovation of the property and home (Photo: CP Complete, Stacy Wickham Photography) |
The creative method is similar to that of a songwriter working off a riff and taking that groove, and then layering in lyrics to complete the process. In my radio days, we interviewed Johnnie Johnson, the original keyboard player for Chuck Berry. He demonstrated his original piano instrumentals that led to hits like “Roll Over Beethoven,” “No Particular Place to Go” and “Sweet Little Sixteen.” It was fascinating, organic, and a part of history that I enjoy sharing. Everyone has their own creativity which begins as a seed of a larger idea. For our clients, often a simple glance out your window can be the spark that leads to an incredible opportunity for your revitalized landscape that will be a perfect fit for you and your family.
