Bringing a new look to the landscape of a historic home while maintaining some of the original charm means walking a fine line between past and present.
challenge: designer sarah yant twistleaf was tasked with re-imagining outdoor spaces in the historic district of Fredericksburg, Texas, including a Queen Anne Victorian mansion, a carriage house, a five-unit barn conversion, and three 1930s bungalows. “We needed to create a cohesive look that complemented the different architectural styles and prioritized seamless circulation between spaces,” says Yount.
There were some hiccups along the way that affected the original plan. A long-standing cracked and broken drainage pipe beneath the mansion’s front patio was a safety risk. Strict water restrictions were also implemented for the Texas Hill Country during that time.
Solution: Yount replaced the fences and gates with period-appropriate designs. They also updated the hardscape, using a mix of concrete, bricks and decomposed granite to create paths and cozy courtyards and retreats. Removing the broken pipe allowed him to consolidate the surrounding ground.
They designed the space with a mix of native and adapted plants that complement the architecture of the Queen Anne Victorian home. Black and blue sage and soft leaf yucca provide seasonal interest and attract butterflies and hummingbirds. American Beautyberries ,Callicarpa Americana, USDA zones 6 to 10; Find your area,Dwarf Palmetto Palms (strong minorZones 7 to 10), aromatic esters ,Symphyotrichum oblongifolium, Zones 3 to 9) And inland sea oats ,Chasmanthium latifoliumZone 3 to 8) The Bungalows Define Restorative Green Retreat.
“We also reduced the amount of lawn in the original design and replaced several areas (including the location shown here) Sage of Leavenworth ,carex leavenworthiiZones 6 to 9) as a water-conscious solution,” says Yant.
