McLean Virginia Landscape Design & Construction
2023 Landscape Contractors Association Grand Award Recipient
The story of the project as told by the client.
Vacation at Home for the Busy Travel Team Family in Mclean, VA
Kristie Helfrich’s family rarely had time to vacation together due to their busy schedules. With four high-energy kids on different sports travel teams, they spent a lot of time on the road.
The Helfrichs decided to make better use of the blank expanse of their backyard by turning it into an athletic field where the kids could work off youthful energy–and weary parents could relax in the shade or sink into the spa and enjoy a staycation.
A Backyard Design with Something for Everyone
After they purchased and remodeled their home, the Helfrich’s realized they weren’t making the most of the backyard. Not even close. It didn’t work for anyone in their busy, athletic family.
They started out thinking they would add a “sports court” with some plantings but realized this wouldn’t be enough.
In discussions with senior landscape architect Howard Cohen, it soon became clear there was much more potential to be exploited. Fresh ideas caught the imagination of the family and were translated into a plan for a multi-purpose outdoor environment that the family uses year-round.
Building on a Solid Beginning
At the beginning of the project, the backyard had an existing small patio, fire pit, and dining area.
The landscape architect worked with the family to integrate some of the existing features while introducing refinements to make the entire yard function seamlessly as a whole.
Rugged Solutions for Rugged Play
The family wanted to maximize the space for activity. Work hard; play hard – they knew this was no yard for the delicate.
The backyard design is built to withstand the punishment of stampeding feet, bouncing balls, and high impact on the surfaces.
A Hardcore Workout Calls for Serious Cooling Down
Athletes need a place to relax and unwind after a hot workout, and the family loved our idea of a pool. Knowing the path from field to water would be frequently used; we used a combination of hardscape, synthetic turf, and careful plantings to keep the pool free of debris.
An expansive terrace accommodates comfortable furniture from which parents cheer on the athletes while enjoying their day off from team-parent duties.
A Boulder Diving Ledge Invites Adventure
This is not a timid family. They loved the idea of scrambling to the top of a boulder waterfall and diving ledge for a plunge into the deep end.
Surrounds found the perfect boulder combinations to complement the new spa and renovated fire pit patio.
It’s Time to Party
When it comes to entertaining, the family friends say, “Why would we go anywhere else?”
Little do their friends realize that the low-maintenance design means it takes less than ten minutes to tidy up before the company arrives.
The ROI is Priceless
The investment went towards making the most of family time by making the most of backyard space.
The design team worked with them to find a balance between budget and inspiration, dreams and practicalities. The result is money well spent.
What’s next?
Schedule a consultation and start our simple four-step process!
1
DREAM IT
2
DESIGN IT
3
Enjoy the show as our skilled craftsmen transform your property. Relax while we manage every detail of construction.
BUILD IT
4
Bask in confidence. Know that our meticulous garden care team will protect and nurture your newly installed landscape in the seasons ahead.
LOVE IT
READY TO GO? Schedule Consultation with a registered landscape architect
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