At Art of Stone Gardening, we love to help clients turn their outdoor spaces into places of relaxation, entertainment, and beauty. Recently, we had the pleasure of designing and building a unique and functional outdoor living area for a family who has a home in the mountains. They wanted a patio and setting for entertainment, adjacent to their woods. The project included an organic-shaped patio, a knee wall, a firepit, and room at one end for a large sculpture.
The Vision: Organic Shapes and Natural Flow
The first step in this project was to understand our client’s vision for their outdoor space. They wanted something that didn’t feel rigid or cookie-cutter. They were looking for curves and shapes that mimicked the natural flow of the landscape…but how would we achieve this? We chose an organic shape for the patio to enhance the sense of freedom and movement. The gentle curves contrast beautifully with the straight lines often seen in traditional patio designs, creating a more inviting and harmonious space.
How we Added Stonework to an Area and Made it Appear as if it Belongs:
We laid out the design of the patio with the client using blue spray paint. Specialized bendable form boards were used to easily create curves. The concrete was poured 4” thick. Tennessee Crab Orchard was selected as the type of natural stone used for the patio. https://therockyardinc.com/crab-orchard-stone/
Building the Knee Wall: Function Meets Aesthetic
One of the standout features of this project was the addition of a knee wall to provide extra seating for guests. The knee wall creates a subtle boundary for the patio area, defining the space while still allowing for an open, airy feeling. Its height is just enough to create separation from the woods, but not so tall that it feels obstructive. Not only is the wall a perfect feature for outdoor entertainment, but it serves as a wonderful backdrop for the rest of the design.
The Statue: A Touch of Tranquility
A key part of this project was the inclusion of a statue, strategically placed within the landscape to serve as a focal point. Our client wanted a touch of elegance that would evoke a sense of peace and serenity in this space. Note the dramatic brass sculpture!
The Firepit: Cozy Evenings Under the Stars
No outdoor living space is complete without a fire feature. Positioned at the heart of the patio, the firepit became an inviting gathering spot for friends and family. This also extends the patio’s usability into the cooler months, so our clients can enjoy their outdoor living area all year long.
The Final Result: A Harmonious Outdoor Oasis
The combination of the organic-shaped patio, knee wall, statue, and firepit created a space that reflects the natural beauty of the environment, while also providing a perfect setting for relaxation and socializing.
What’s most satisfying is that our client is absolutely thrilled with the result, because their outdoor space has truly become an extension of their home. It’s a sanctuary where they can connect with nature, entertain guests, or simply unwind after a long day. As always, we are incredibly proud of the opportunity to bring our clients’ visions to life. This project is a testament to the power of thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and the beauty of outdoor spaces. https://artofstonegardening.com/construction
