Springhill Residence

The project is located in the rural town of Pollock, Louisiana. The surrounding area is primarily pasture land with many abandoned and picturesque structures such as barns and old homesites.

The clients sought out landscape architectural services to help them create a rear terrace and outdoor living area. They wanted to enjoy the beautiful views of the property and their quiet rural setting. The design solution needed to be cost efficient but still artistically incorporate the client’s personality into the project. During the initial client consultation the discussion often led to talks about the scenes of the surrounding area and the picturesque rural location. The vivid images of old abandoned homesites and former homesteads that were now only evident by the remaining large trees and deteriorating chimneys became the driving concept for the design of the rear terrace. The terrace was constructed from reclaimed brick from the area. This brick paving was broken up by four inch wide gaps that were planted with ground cover. This broken paving pattern was representative of the broken places of the past that are found in the surrounding area.

A freestanding fireplace was erected of the same reclaimed brick and was left unfinished to give the appearance of those left in ruins nearby. Focal points from the terrace include views to a grassy pasture and small pond with pier. The design solution and completed project according to the clients “was more artful and symbolic than they could have imagined.”