City — Alameda, CA
Budget — $90,000 - $120,000

Having a versatile outdoor space for family gatherings, whether it be dining, lounge, or playing with their young child and dog, that could adapt and evolve over time. These were the parameters for the backyard of a family in Alameda.

While an existing detached studio was to remain, an older and dilapidated garage structure that had to be demolished meant there would be a sizable void with which to reintroduce to the garden as usable space and connected to the rest of the yard. Once the garage structure was removed, an open lawn area provided the family with the child-friendly activity space that had been missing prior.

Themes — Family friendly, Versatility, Concrete Pavers, Drought Tolerant

The Space

The design palette sought to find a solution that would be durable and robust, while leaning into a simple elegance that would seamlessly translate to the residential character of the home. Redwood decking and fence cladding, and plank style concrete pavers created a subtle visual overlap between various designated spaces. With slight alternations of the paving layout serving to demarcate between pathway transitions and furnished areas.

An established fruiting apple tree was preserved and honored as a central feature, abutting both lawn and patio spaces. New trees and pollinator host plants were added as borders for privacy, visual interest, and to soften the transition from hardscape to fence line.

Building the Vision

Additional steps were taken in order to “future proof” the design and layout of the space. In anticipation of a hot tub to be installed and partially sunken into the new deck, a support slab and joist layout were preemptively installed to accommodate this.

Two steel support posts were specified and their locations studied to ensure their placement would not create an unwanted obstacles down the road.