Classy Courtyard

Outdoor living area renovation by Earthly Delights Landscape Design, (919) 264-7318, www.earthlydelightsnc.com

BEFORE

The owners of this Raleigh home enjoy gourmet cooking and fine wines, and they wanted their home to reflect these passions. They set out to transform their small backyard and patio into a New Orleans-style courtyard. They were looking for a quiet, private retreat where they could relax at the end of the day. Their wish list also included a fountain and planters. Working with the homeowners, Designer Mary Liljequist of Earthly Delights of Earthly Delights Landscape Design developed three concepts for the yard. When the clients determined the preferred layout, a detailed design was developed. There was much attention devoted to the selection of materials. The project’s mason (Mac Masonry Inc. of Fuquay-Varina) went to great lengths to find brick that strongly resembled the existing, obsolete brick used in the walls around the backyard. Every element of the project was carefully analyzed before selection was made—from the fountain mask to the tile and faucet handles. The HVAC was moved to an enclosed storage area outside the courtyard, which also is used to conceal the grill and serves as additional storage. Ceramic tile. custom fencing and lighting enhance the brick, completing the hardscape elements; whereas plants add a soft touch to balance the overall feel. The courtyard’s planter contains Japanese Fatsia, Night Before Christmas Hosta, Trailing Gardenia, Encore Azalea and Periwinkle.

Additional Contractors for this Project
Landscape lighting provided by: Southern Lights of Raleigh Inc., http://southernlightsinfo.com
Patio, fountain and hardscape installation by: Mac Masonry Inc. of Fuquay-Varina, (919) 557-9074