The Challenge: The client wanted to create a backyard design at her downtown Raleigh home whose main gathering space would need to be wheelchair accessible for her best friend.

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The Wishlist: The client envisioned a main gathering space that was either a large stone patio built on grade or a raised deck. The patio or deck would house a space for their grill, a seating area, and a bar with bar seating.  The client also wanted the design to include a space to relax on hammocks, a stock tank pool, trash & and recycling enclosure, a new shed to hold their bikes and tools, and a new front foundation planting plan to provide curb appeal.

 

The Solution: I chose to use a raised deck with ADA-compliant ramps as the primary gathering space.  This would allow wheelchair accessibility to the gathering space, seating area, bar, and grill area but more importantly for the client, easy access to the house interior.

• The stock tank pool is located within close proximity of the deck to make it easily accessible for the client or guests. 

• I created a special patio and custom designed pergola to define the hammock area and positioned it in the back corner of the property to create a “intimate destination” that is separated from the main gathering spaces.