A Cottage Garden

This Providence home, set prominently on a corner lot, lacked a sense of privacy and usable outdoor living space. The first phase of the renovation focused on the front landscape, where a deteriorating timber retaining wall and existing turf were removed, and the site was regraded to direct water away from the house. Window wells were installed at the basement windows to retain grade along the foundation. Granite cobblestones were added at key points along the original concrete and brick entry stair and walkway, enhancing both aesthetics and grade retention. A new irrigation system was installed to serve the lawn and reconfigured planting beds. Much of the lawn was replaced with layered borders of climbing roses, clematis, flowering shrubs, and perennials, creating a lush cottage garden character.

The second phase transformed the side yard into a private garden retreat. A dining room window was converted into patio doors opening onto a small entry deck with steps to grade. The existing timber retaining wall along the sidewalk was replaced with masonry, and a privacy fence with a gated arbor enclosed the space. Within the enclosure, a bluestone patio and evergreen plantings created structure and screening, while custom lattice panels concealed utilities. The client’s antique birdcage became a focal point within the garden, surrounded by flowering perennials and vines. A recirculating fountain, nestled into the planting bed at the chimney, helps mask surrounding city noise and enhances the sense of enclosure and calm.