Dear Homework, I’m hoping you will be able to help with the back of our house. In short, it’s pretty boring. It faces north, so it only receives direct sunlight for about three or four months. Still, we were thinking that some low plantings might soften the flat brick. We are open to anything that will add some grace to the back of our home.
Sincerely,
—Stumped in Ladue
Dear Stumped in Ladue,
I agree with you that adding some landscaping to your patio area will improve its appearance. I would keep it bold and simple to complement the contemporary architecture. I show a low evergreen hedge accented by tall pyramidal evergreens. A large, modern urn is centered on the terrace doors, and a bank of ornamental grasses separates the barbecue area from the main patio.
Using simpler furniture and accessories also will help the overall impression. Crisp, straight-edged lounge chairs and planter boxes make the entire area more modern. Painting the various hardware pieces on the roof to match the shingles helps disguise them, and the three ornamental wall plaques have been moved to attract more attention.
These minor changes are all that is needed to view your terrace in a new and positive light.
Hope that helps,
—Homework
Homework is penned by Paul Doerner, founding partner of The Lawrence Group. If you would like your home critiqued, contact us at homework@townandstyle.com.
