An edible landscape, water management plan, woodland trails, and low-maintenance lawn strategies are incorporated into the design for a historical farm property in Amherst, MA.
6 4 S t a t e S t r e e t , A m h e r s t : A sustainable landscape design prepared for Alyssa Melnick A project of the Conway School of Landscape Design Fall 2009 Abrah Jordan Dresdale DESIGN Schematic Alternatives....11 Preliminary Design Alts.....12 Final Design: Phase 1.........13 Final Design: Phase 2.........14 Conceptual Sections.........15 INSTALLATION Water Management............16 Planting Plan.........................17 Materials & Precedents.....18 ANALYSES Sun/Shade...............................5 Slopes.......................................6 Drainage...................................7 Access & Circulation..............8 Vegetation & Soils.................9 Summary Analysis..............10 INTRODUCTION Project Goals & Intentions...1 Context & History ..................2 Ecological Context.................3 Existing Conditions................4 INDEX OF SHEETS
Transcript
6 4 S t a t e S t r e e t , A m h e r s t : A sustainable landscape design prepared for Alyssa Melnick
A project of the Conway School of Landscape Design Fall 2009 Abrah Jordan Dresdale
3) Create Network of Looping Trails that Visit Peaceful Destinations
4) Increase Low Maintenance Food Production
Secondary Goals
a) Incorporate Existing Perennial
Garden with Surroundings
b) Create Play Area
c) Keep Coco, the Dog, Safe from Street
d) Site Compost Pile
E) Seek Opportunities for Sustainability
Overall Intention: To create a cohesive landscape that responds to the conditions of the site while meeting project goals with creativity, aesthetic beauty, and ecological responsibility.
6 4 S t a t e S t r e e t , A m h e r s t
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09
kl
0 5’ 10’ 15’ 30’ 45’ 60’
Context & History
sheet 3
of 18
Within the Connecticut River Valley of Western Massachusetts, Alyssa Melnick’s property is located in North Amherst, just northwest of the University of Massachusetts campus. 64 State Street straddles the edge between developed, suburban land to the east and south, and conservation land (green) to the west and north. The property abuts the Mill River Conservation Area, which houses the Mill River and several hiking trails through its beautiful riparian forest. Alyssa and her 11 year-old sons, Quintin and Miles, live within 5 minutes walking distance to the Mill River Recreation Area, which boasts a pool, tennis, and basketball courts, and within a 20 minute walk to waterfalls and swimming at Puffer’s Pond.
Originally a family farm owned and operated by the Silvonics in the early 20th century, 64 State Street retains relics of its historical past. The existence of the Mill River Conservation area is the result of the Allens’--previous property owners’--decision to gift parcels of the original farm to the Town of Amherst to be put into conservation. Additionally, the strip of land on the eastern side of State Street, which is currently dotted with 1970s ranch houses, was also part of the Silvonic family farm.
The turn of the century farmhouse j, barn k, and stone well l are picturesque structures that have persisted since the transformation of this site in the 1940s from agricultural to residential use.
Alyssa would like to honor the agricultural history of the land through the continuity of food production and other practices of self-sustenance.
k
j l j
The surveyed area is 1.75 acres and is the focus of the design for this 3 acre site.
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09Wetland Regulations & Flood Zoning
Mill River Conservation Area
0 10 20 40 60 100 140
Ecological Context
sheet 5
of 18
To Mill River Recreation
Area
At least four ecological designations signal the richness and sensitivity of the land in and around 64 State Street, Amherst:
1. Riverfront Area
A perennial stream crosses the property at the bottom of the western slope. The first two hundred feet in either direction from its banks are established as a protected riverfront area under the Wetlands Protection Act. If any modifications to the land are intended within this sensitive wetland, including vegetation removal for trail building, a Notice of Intent must first be filed with the town of Amherst.
2. Flood Zoning
The town of Amherst has determined part of the property and much of the adjacent conservation area to be in Flood Prone Conservancy Zoning due to the area’s natural hydrology. This zoning restricts the types of uses in order to protect “life and property against the hazards of floods, erosion, and pollution,” and only requires permitting if buildings are intended for the area under this zoning.
3. Mill River Conservation Area
An natural gem, the surrounding Mill River Conservation Area consists of a riparian forest, wetlands, perennial streams, the Mill River, and a network of trails (with Mill River 2 and Julius Lester Trails in close proximity), which links up with Amherst’s 35 miles of contiguous hiking trails.
4. Priority Habitat for Rare Species
The Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) has determined the Mill River Conservation Area, which abuts the property, to be Priority Habitat for Rare Species. Any proposed changes, such as vegetation removal for trail building, along the boundary with the conservation area may need to be reviewed by the NHESP for Massachusetts Endangered Species Act compliance.
0 100’
0 10 20
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09
j
k
m
n
o
p
sheet 7
of 18
OBSERVATIONS• Overall Pattern: an upland clearing in
the woods with many individual trees dotted throughout. The relatively flat, open area is encircled by a mixed hardwood conifer forest edge. Just beyond the treeline, the terrain steeply slopes down to south, west, and north, meeting the Mill River just across the property boundary.
• The turn-of-the-century farmhouse has its primary entrance on the south side, opening to the primary yard, which is dominated by eight mature trees. j
• The converted shed k serves as a pottery studio for Alyssa’s sons, Quintin and Miles, and is near the house, which together frame the central heart of the property• The driveway passes
the sweat lodge area l to the west, and then cuts through and divides the heart of the property in half, finally terminating in front of the red wooden barn m, separated by parking n from the other two buildings.
• A relatively cleared trail o winds down the western slope to the conservation area; a second trail p leads down the northern slope and is well placed, but currently underused because it is very steep and overgrown with Japanese barberry.
• House, art studio, and barn roof receive full sun
• Full shade and protection along treeline and in woods
DESIGN DIRECTIONS• Retain beneficial trees to southwest of house filtering hot
afternoon sun
• Site meditation garden and play are along cool, protected woodland edge
• Intensive food production best situated in western yard
OBSERVATIONS• Long shadows cover 95% of property
• Midday and afternoon sun still available in western yard
• Patches of morning and midday sun in eastern yard
• Part sun on south side of barn
DESIGN DIRECTIONS• Roof solar panels will be most successful installed on
south-facing roof of barn, unless trees are removed in south yard, and then south-facing roof of house will be viable
OBSERVATIONS• Dense shade dominates most of the clearing in woods
• House and studio bathed in shade
• Sunny band in western yard only
• Patches of sun in eastern yard
• South-facing roof of barn (and house somewhat) in full sun
Images below show the composite shadows of 9 am, 12 noon, and 3 pm on the specified dates
DESIGN DIRECTIONS• Retain beneficial trees to southwest of house that diffuse
hot afternoon sun and provide shade
• Remove trees to southeast and south of house and studio to allow more light into windows and create sunny area for kitchen garden
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09Slopes Analysis
0 10’ 30’
sheet 11
of 18
OBSERVATIONS• Overall Pattern: raised island, steeply
sloping to south, west, and north, with a donut-hole depression in the center
• Area of 0-3% slopes in front of house cause puddles
• Slopes >15% on west and north edge are subject to erosion
IMPLICATIONS• Predominant use of the property
occurs upslope, on flatter part of property, leaving sloped edges underutilized
• Puddles cause wet feet and unusable portions of yard
DESIGN DIRECTIONS• Implement water management
strategies such as catchment, re-grading, berms, and swales
• Increase overall use of property by placing elements that are suited for slopes such as switchback trails or a zip-line for play
• Minimize vegetation removal to reduce impact of new trails on erosive slopes
• Increase plant communities with fibrous, deep-rooting structure on slope to decrease erosive conditions
Section A-A’
A’
wooded slope mown lawn driveway/parking south side yard street
0 5’ 10’ 15’ 30’ 45’ 60’
A
neighbor’s paved yard driveway
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09
Puddles
Drainage Analysis
sheet 13
of 18
OBSERVATIONS• Downspout channels roof runoff
directly into south yard, where slope is 0-3%
• Problematic puddling from sheet runoff, rooftops, and State Street collects at central low point (see section below*)
• Water travels quickly down steep western slope and may not infiltrate soil at this sunny, potential site for food production
IMPLICATIONS• Long-lasting puddles form in areas of
frequent use after rainstorms and cause wet feet and muddy yard
DESIGN DIRECTIONS• Use off-site water flow and roof
runoff as a resource to support goal of food production in sunny area with possible low infiltration
• Create ways to capture and divert water that foster 1) sustainability, and 2) integration of goals
Downspouts from northern roof go underground and deposit water downslope
Problematic Puddling*
0 5’ 10’ 15’ 30’ 45’
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09
0 5’ 10’ 15’ 30’ 45’ 60’
Access & Circulation Analysis
sheet 15
of 18
OBSERVATIONS• Only one path leads to Mill River
Conservation Area
• Outskirts of property inaccessible for walking due to 1) thorny barberry, and undergrowth in woods, 2) steep slope, and 3) dense blackberry bramble to the southwest
• Routes walked daily pass through south yard where puddles form
• Cars infrequently use north leg of driveway
• Parking cuts through center of property
IMPLICATIONS• Alyssa and/or sons may not take full
advantage of conservation area due to limited points of accessibility;
• Ideal routes (reported by Alyssa) are currently inaccessible due to undergrowth, slope, and bramble
• Underused part of driveway is impervious and limits activities and spatial flow at heart of property
• Parking disrupts circulation flow
• Establish looping trail network that: 1) accesses full breadth of property 2) creates several nodes of connection with existing trails in conservation area
• Remove underused leg of driveway
• Consider altering driveway in a manner that supports the goals of spaciousness and water management
DESIGN DIRECTIONS
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09
sheet 17
of 18
Vegetation Analysis
Soil Analysis
OBSERVATIONS• Overall Pattern: island of mown grass
surrounded by mixed hardwood conifer forest
• Scattered trees in center of property
• Few edible plants
• Foundation plantings around east, south, and north side of house
• Blackberry bramble on western slope
IMPLICATIONS• Large lawn consumes time and fuel
and leads to air pollution
• Trees to south of house block light
• Foundation plantings may be damaging foundation and inhibiting air flow around house
• Blackberry bramble impedes circulation on slope
DESIGN DIRECTIONS• Reduce mown lawn with meadow,
forbs, ground cover, and plantings
• Remove key trees that limit feeling of spaciousness and block light
• Remove and re-plant foundation plantings around house and barn
• Increase edible plants
• Create pathways through blackberry bramble for circulation and harvest
The soil type, Amostown sandy loam, is a moderately well drained soil with rapid permeability in the subsoil. The seasonal high water table is at 1.5 to 3.0 feet.
These characteristics make the soil well suited to cultivate crops; rain and ground water can reach and irrigate roots without the risk of perched water causing saturation. In gently sloping areas, planting on contour and using covercrops is recommended to reduce erosion.
Western YardThe current vegetable garden is in a suitable location here based on the hours of sun and soil test results. The soil is low in lead and rich in phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. The organic matter is low and can be amended with the application of finished compost and nitrogen-fixing cover crops--which will also reduce erosion of the slope, especially if beds are planted on contour or terraced.
Soil Test Results (ATTACHED)
0 5’ 10’ 15’ 30’ 45’ 60’
Area Around HouseSoil testing reported extremely high lead levels (1309 ppm) around house and studio. Green vegetables should not be planted here and play area should be at least 20 feet away from lead zone (see Summary Analysis, sheet 10). Nutrient levels are low to medium and organic matter is low. Apply finished compost and organic mulch to increase levels for flower beds and fruit trees. A pH of 5.9 is slightly low, but in the desired range for herbs and flowers.
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09Summary Analysis
0 5’ 10’ 15’ 30’ 45’ 60’
sheet 19
of 18
CONSTRAINTS• Extremely high levels of lead
surrounding the house & studio: green vegetables uptake lead and should not be grown in this zone.
• Puddles form in areas of frequent use and daily walkways, partly an effect of roof runoff coming from gutter downspout.
• Dense canopy of mature trees on the south side of the house and encircling yard causes shade, limited view, and chilly microclimates.
• Erosive, steep slopes to the south, west, and north limit access to Mill River Conservation Area and use of the entire property.
• At night headlights pierce into the living room through the bay window.
OPPORTUNITIES
• Large area with 6 hours of sun (9 am-3 pm—time with most solar gain) from spring equinox to autumn equinox.
• Roof runoff from gutter downspout on south side of house is easily collected; runoff can be used as a resource for plants.
• One cleared trail and one unmaintained but well-sited trail connect to larger trail network in Mill River Conservation Area.
• Mature trees are resources to meet two goals: 1) create peaceful destinations (under the refuge of tall trees) 2) site potential play area (such as a tree house and/or zip line).
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09Schematic Alternatives
Alternative 1: Embrace Alternative 2: Balance Alternative 3: Opening
0 30’ 60’
sheet 21
of 18
Schematic alternatives are used here as a tool to address one of Alyssa’s primary goals—to increase sunlight and spaciousness—by comparing and contrasting possible outcomes of tree removal. White is completely open space, while cross-hatching and grey tones are low objects in the landscape, and forms in black are taller mass (see Legend).
Alternative 1 embraces the mass and shade of all of the nine trees around the house, and explores how to celebrate the conditions they naturally provide. Their overarching canopy and shade, along with their structural and vegetative features, become the architectural elements of an outdoor room. To balance leaving all of the trees in the center of the property, other trees along the western forest edge are removed, forming an embracing arc that allows more light and open space elsewhere.
The third alternative increases spaciousness and light to the extreme. All nine trees are removed from the east and south yards, giving the house open access to the street, yard, and morning to early afternoon sun. The loss of trees in these areas is compensated in other places of the property by planting new, mid-story trees. Lastly, alternative 3, with the elimination of the north leg of the driveway, creates even more spaciousness at the center of the property.
The second alternative proposes a middle ground where some key trees are removed around the house, while the tree line remains untouched. Also, elements (mass) are more evenly distributed around the property rather than grouped into areas, creating a balanced mosaic of elements and space around the property.
Trees Beds Meadow Mown Grass Hardscape Buildings Legend
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09Preliminary Design Alternatives
k
l
m
no
p
p
j k
l
mn
op
q j
k l
m
o
p
q
n
Alternative 1 embraces all of the existing trees around the house, their shade, and overarching structure. By using the trees’ architectural elements as framework for a new, outdoor room, people are also embraced in this alternative. By pulling the driveway out of the heart of the property and replacing it with a ring of evergreen shrubs, flowering perennials, and a rustic fence to keep Coco safe, a serene container emerges. In contrast to this outdoor green room, the western yard opens wide and allows unobstructed sunlight to reach a small arbor, raised patio with a vine-covered pergola, terraced vegetable garden, and lower level terrace with cob seating and fire pit. Trails descend from the terrace steps, leading into the woods.
Embrace
j foreshortened drivewayk outdoor green rooml arborm vine-covered pergola on pation terrace vegetable gardeno lower level terrace w. cob seating & sunken fire pit
All of the trees around the house and the north leg of the driveway are removed in Alternative 3, opening the central heart of the property with sunlight and a feeling of spaciousness. Two catalpa trees in the southwest of the yard provide afternoon shade for the circular deck off of the house. The sunken fire pit in the middle and potted herbs on the periphery make the deck a natural gathering place. Mown paths through a large swath of meadow sweeping around the new clearing lead to several destinations: a play area with a treehouse and zip-line down the north slope, a meditation garden under the Norway spruce, a food forest and a vegetable garden, and a walking meditation loop in a mass of ornamental trees encircling the sweat lodge.
j mown opening Openingk catalpa treesl deck with sunken fire pit & potted herbsm meadow with mown pathsn play area with treehouse & zip-lineo meditation garden under sprucep food forest & vegetable gardenq walking meditation loop with ornamental trees
In Alternative 2, half of the trees around the house are removed, achieving a balance of morning light and afternoon shade for the house, studio, and new patio in a perennial garden. The increased light allows food production areas to be dispersed around the property: fruit and nut trees in front of the house; berries along the driveway; a vegetable garden west of the barn. Brick walkways and openings between plants define paths of circulation. A screened-in porch encloses an outdoor area for family gathering and keeps Coco safe. Trees to the south of the barn are replaced by a wildflower meadow, bringing sunshine to a secret deck buffered by evergreen shrubs and allowing sun rays to reach rooftop solar panels on the barn.
j patio within existing perennial garden Balancek fruit & nut trees in berm/swale on contourl blueberries & raspberriesm vegetable gardenn screened-in porcho wildflower meadowp secret deckq solar panels
j
p
In all three alternatives, water is managed by re-grading the central area and installing rainwater catchment at the gutter downspout.
Alternative 2: Balance Alternative 3: Opening
KEY
sheet 23
of 18
Alternative 1: Embrace
0 30’ 60’
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09
sheet 25
of 18
Final Design Phase 1: The Central Heart
Manage Water (see sheet 16 for details)Bringing fill into the eastern yard creates a level terrace retained by a 2’-high stone wall to reduce upslope runoff from entering the central yard. A rainwater barrel captures roof runoff from the gutter downspout, which is then used for watering kitchen and perennial gardens. Overflow drains into a berm/swale on the edge of the terrace. Micrograding funnels water on the terrace to the mouth of a rocky swale, channeled downslope at a 2% grade towards the vegetable garden. Connected to the rocky swale, an overflow swale to the south both manages excess water in heavy rains and intercepts any driveway runoff that would otherwise head towards the barn foundation. The driveway is graded for positive drainage away from the yard. A small footprint remains of the original depression in the central yard, forming a rain garden by the locust tree to catch any lingering water.
Increase Low-Maintenance Food Production (see Planting Guide, sheet 17)With several trees removed, the amount of sunlight increases around the house and new food production opportunities arise. A forest garden o of fruit and nut trees, berry bushes (which also help to block intruding headlights), and edible perennials and groundcovers line the top of the retaining wall, and are irrigated by the adjacent swale. The kitchen garden p, consisting of potted culinary and medicinal herbs, is in proximity to the front door and spreads over four 1/2’-tall earthen steps that jet out from the retaining wall.
Increase Sunlight and SpaciousnessUnhealthy and declining trees are removed: two roadside maples, two scraggly apples, one crab-apple, and one declining cherry. Increased sunlight, a feeling of spaciousness, and food production opportunities in the central yard are positive effects of strategic tree removal.
Incorporate Perennial Garden with SurroundingsThe existing perennial garden q is re-shaped to follow the contour of the retaining wall. Edged by the brick path to the west and stone garden path to the east, the perennial garden provides beauty to passersby. A patio is nestled between the red maple and paper birch in the center of the garden.
Keep Coco Safe from Street nIn addition to the beauty and the feeling of embrace that the outdoor living room offers, it also serves as a protective edge and visual barrier for Coco (along with the implementation of an electric fence). The driveway is removed from the central area, providing a safe, vehicle-free zone for Coco. In place of the impervious driveway, evergreen shrubs, free-standing and retaining stone walls, and a narrow threshold with a woven arch overhead form the sinuous edge of this container.
Create Looping Trails that Visit Peaceful DestinationsA hierarchy of paths for varying uses loop around the central heart of the property and connect to functional and/or peaceful destinations:j brick paths define direct routes walked daily
k sturdy pea gravel paths connote utilitarian-use (to and from barn, garden, compost, etc.)l stone garden paths meander around the perimeter of the central heart area, paralleling the rocky swale, perennial garden, and retaining wallm slabs of Goshen stone serve as a bridge for crossing over rocky swale
driveway
o forest garden
berry bushes
woven archway
k brick walk
brick walk
rainwater barrel
p kitchen garden
patio
l stone garden path
berm &swale
mouth of rocky swale
retaining rock wall
overflow swale
evergreen shrubs
m goshen stone
rain garden
meadow
gravel path
rocky swale
l stone garden path
terrace
n
q
mown paths
perennial garden
DESIGN SUMMARY: “The Central Heart” embodies the union of the principles, practices, and goals that Alyssa holds dear. In this first phase of design implementation, the house, pottery studio, and barn are joined by clearly articulated paths and a shared central commons. The outdoor, sunken living room--framed by vegetation, overarching trees, a retaining wall, and undulating rocky swale--provides a space in which family can gather, Coco is safe, food is abundant, and functionality is paired with aesthetic sensibility. The serpentine retaining
wall echoes the form of the contour below, allowing the history and natural beauty of the land to sing through the design changes.
meadow
B
B’
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09
meditation garden
play area
wildflower meadow
mown pathsvegetable garden
memorial apple tree
sun deck w. pergola
sunken fire pit
ornamental trees
walking meditation loop
old well
trail to Conservation Area
trail to Conservation Area
end of rocky swale
compostl
stone retaining wall around terrace edge
no
p
wildflower meadow
q
r
s
meadow
sheet 27
of 18
Phase 2: The Circulation System
Seek Opportunities for Sustainabilityq A cost-benefit analysis is recommended for photovoltaic potential. If this form of renewable energy meets Alyssa’s needs and is appropriate for the site conditions, the best location for roof solar panels is on the south side of the barn roof.r Harnessing geothermal energy may be a possibility at the old well. Consult a specialist to research feasibility and cost.s The water collected into the rocky swale irrigates vegetable beds downslope where it is caught and infiltrated by bermed terrace steps (see Water Management, sheet 16).
Create Looping TrailsLawn is reduced and replaced with a wildflower meadow (west and north of house) that defines the western edge of the central area. The gravel and stone paths in the outdoor living room transition into mown paths blazing through tall grasses. The paths circle buildings, loop around the perimeter of the central heart area, meander alongside terrace walls, encircle the entire property, and connect with trails in the Mill River Conservation Area.
Visit Peaceful DestinationsMown paths arrive at and loop through many peaceful destinations:m meditation garden with benches and shrine—a protected refuge created by a stone wall backing and Norway spruce branches overheadn a grassy terrace with stone retaining walls that form a sunken fire pit social areao a sun deck with a passionflower-covered pergola, breakfast table, and chairsp a walking meditation loop around the fenced-in sweat lodge area, ringed by ornamental trees
Increase Low-Maintenance Food ProductionThe vegetable garden k cups the edge of the terrace whose form echoes the contour line below. The beds, planted on bermed terrace steps to reduce erosion and capture water from the swale uphill, receive at least 6 hoursof sun daily during the growing season. The compost bin l is located outside the rabbit-proof fence, opposite the mown path. Additionally, a cleared trailpasses through the blackberry bramble to permit access for berry harvesting and passage to the southern slope.
DESIGN SUMMARY: In the second phase of design implementation, “The Circulation System” creates looping trails and connects elements that are designed to meet project goals. Very much like the human circulation system with the heart at its core, arteries radiate out from the center and pass through many parts that make up the body of the property. A network of mown paths travel through a sunny, open meadow and arrive at key destinations: a play area in the woods, a peaceful meditation garden, a sunny deck with a vine-covered pergola, a productive vegetable garden, a sunken fire pit, and a series of walled terraces. Three trails head into the woods and off property where they unite with the larger trail network in the Mill River Conservation Area, through which the Recreation Area, swimming at Puffer’s Pond, and the 35 mile expanse of wooded hiking trails can be accessed by foot directly from 64 State Street.
Site Play AreaThe play area j for Quintin, Miles, and friends runs along the northern trail where a zip-line whooshes downhill from atop a tree house just north of the forest edge, safely away from the lead zone.
Phase 1 of Design Implementation
j
blackberrypatch
trail to Conservation Area
k
m
tenant parking
C
C’
blackberrypatch
grassy terrace
0 5’ 10’ 15’ 30’ 45’ 60’
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09
sheet 29
of 18
meadow memorial apple tree turf w. rain garden turf brick peren. patio in perennial garden turf terrace with State Street redbud walk gardn raspberry bush
2’ retaining wall
Section C-C’: Western Yard (NTS)
Section B-B’: Central Heart (NTS)
Conceptual Sections
swal
e
ston
e pa
th
grav
el
path
path to woods stairs step terrace vegetable garden mown path sunken mown deck w. aromatic barn snow plow swale driveway in meadow fire pit terrce vine-covered pergola retaining wall 2’ retaining wall
Not
for c
onst
ruct
ion.
Thi
s dr
awin
g is
par
t of
a s
tude
nt p
roje
ct a
nd is
not
bas
ed o
n a
lega
l sur
vey.
Conw
ay S
choo
l of
Land
scap
e De
sign
33
2 S
. Dee
rfiel
d R
d. C
onw
ay, M
A 0
13
41
41
3.3
69
.40
44
ww
w.cs
ld.e
du
Abr
ah J
orda
n D
resd
ale
~Aly
ssa
Mel
nick
~6
4 S
tate
Str
eet
Am
hers
t, M
A 0
10
02
Fall
20
09
sheet 31
of 18
Drainage Diagram:The new drainage pattern is the result of added fill and micrograding in key areas. A two-foot-high retaining wall creates a level eastern yard. A berm and swale j on contour run along the upper side of the wall to catch runoff from State Street. Micrograding funnels water into mouth (A) of 3 foot rocky swale k , which then diverts it downslope to irrigate vegetable garden. The uneven ground of the new “sunken outdoor room” is filled, leveled, and micrograded to bring water into the swale. A small footprint of the original depression remains, forming a rain garden l by the locust tree to catch any lingering water. The new driveway is graded so that water flows away from central yard. A one foot swale runs alongside driveway (B), serving as an overflow channel for the rocky swale and catching excess driveway runoff to protect the barn foundation. A rain barrel m collects roof runoff from gutter downspout and is used to water perennial and kitchen gardens.
PLANTING PLAN SUMMARY:Native perennials with a few exceptions form the plant palette of this low-maintenance landscape. Plants are appropriate for the site’s soil, sun/shade distribution, hardiness zone, and microclimates. The plant palette is arranged by thematic groups: forest garden, perennial beds, rain garden, kitchen garden, wildflower meadow, and other. Within relevant groups, edible and medicinal qualities are starred and seasonal interest and harvest time are noted. The new vegetation is designed so that crop yield and color will rotate through out the growing season, with plants in the first phase of the final design installed initially, followed by phase two.
