If you are drawn to modern landscape design ideas but also like the look of more traditional masonry, you could combine the best of both worlds as you refresh your Huntington, NY, property. Historical masonry may seem to be at odds with modern landscapes, but the two can be surprisingly compatible. You can embrace the contrast with stunning effect.
Related: 4 BACKYARD DESIGNS WITH MASONRY FOCAL FEATURES IN PORT JEFFERSON, NY
On the Patio
This idea uses two traditional materials—bluestone and timber—to create a stunning modern space. You can use historical material (the look of bluestone) in a fresh way by opting for large format pavers that resemble bluestone (around 24” square). This gives a patio a clean, uncluttered look, which is the hallmark of modern landscape design.
This contemporary style could be beautifully contrasted if the timber frame pergola were a natural color. Timber-framed structures are held together using cut and fitted joints, resulting in an incredibly durable structure—one of the strong points of timber framing. A timber frame pergola will offer a feeling of substance and grandeur. You could choose a modern design style for the pergola that is clean and simple, without additional embellishments on the rafter tails. The large-format bluestone-like pavers underfoot would provide a pleasing visual balance (smaller pavers underneath an imposing timber frame structure could appear too delicate).
Retaining Walls
If your landscape needs include a new retaining wall, you could use natural stacked flagstone. The linear look of this narrow stone could beautifully complement large, plank-style pavers used for a nearby patio or pool deck. Not only will you enjoy the contrast of sizes (relatively small flagstone and relatively large pavers) but textures as well. The rough texture of the wall will be highlighted against the smoothness of the pavers. When it comes to color choices, you could choose to emphasize the textures only or choose different (complementary) colors for an even more dramatic effect. Contrasting textures, where the emphasis is on the individual characteristics of each material, is an important part of modern design. For the best results, you probably do not want contrasting borders or accents here, as that could make the space feel busy.
At the Poolside
Limestone and sandstone make ideal surfaces for chic pool decks. To give the space a modern flair, large natural stone could minimize visual clutter, and the use of monochromatic plants, such as a row of cypress as a living wall, could contribute to the overall theme. This will give your pool area a serene feel reminiscent of a luxury spa resort.
On the Driveway
While the look of a stately brick driveway can put an incredible, elegant touch on your home and landscape, it’s a valid concern that snowplows, shovels, and deicing chemicals could ruin the surface very quickly. The good news is that you can achieve the historical look of brick (today, in an expanded range of blended and solid colors especially if you opt for concrete rather than clay brick) and install a driveway heating system that will keep your driveway free and clear of ice and snow all winter. While larger format pavers would help you achieve a more modern aesthetic, your new driveway could be the one place reserved for historical charm in your landscape.
Related: BUILDING A MODERN RETREAT WITH MASONRY IN BABYLON, NY
