Red Oak Lane Residence

The project is located in south Grant Parish, Louisiana on the edge of an existing hardwood grove and creek. The beautiful surroundings were not without their challenges though. The property had a dramatic sloping rear yard that made it very difficult for the homeowners to use. The design solution was to create a series of terraces that would gradually transition or step down into the wooded area behind the home.

The upper terrace located directly off the back of the home featured an outdoor room defined by a freestanding brick wall with an archway entrance and a rectangular opening with views to the surrounding woods. This area also functioned as a grilling/cooking area with table seating. In the middle of the terrace is a seating area and planters filled with seasonal plantings. At the opposite end of the upper terrace is brick fireplace with blue stone mantel. This area is defined by a low brick and blue stone wall that provides additional seating near the fireplace.

As you transition to the lower terrace you step down rustic wood and gravel steps surround by plantings of ornamental grasses with Crape Myrtles. The lower terrace features a pool with spa and three blue stone capped brick columns. Projecting from each column is a copper scupper that pours water onto river rock troughs below. Also positioned on the lower terrace is a brick and cypress pavilion. The pavilion provides covered seating, a kitchenette and half bath. The lower terrace is surrounded by a fencing with mass plantings of horse tail reed. Surrounding this lower terrace is a wetland planted with Palmetto, Iris and Cypress which is sustained by captured rainwater and runoff from the site. This wetland fades into the existing hardwood grove and creek area.

The project enhanced the clients already beautiful wooded setting and has provided them with several areas for outdoor enjoyment throughout the year.