CRAFTSMAN RENOVATION

The clients’ goal to improve their landscape in keeping with the Craftsman character of their home. Priorities included developing a more gracious and welcoming front stoop and patio, elegant low maintenance plantings, and better management of stormwater.

ZDA paid special attention to the house’s interior and exterior detailing and materials. Stone and brick selection, new handrails and light posts blend seamlessly with the home’s architecture and contributed to the owners earning Wisconsin’s Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit.

A series of Wisconsin-quarried limestone walls were installed to create flattened and more usable terraces. The upper terrace includes an expanded front stoop with custom designed handrail that mimics detailing from a stained glass window original to the house. A bluestone patio welcomes visitors at the sidewalk and gives prominence to the front door. The lower terrace includes a small flat lawn for recreating and gathering and planting areas designed to infiltrate roof water runoff and enhance the architectural lines of the house.