Frontyard

Priorities: Resolve Unwanted Pooling – Increase Room For Foot Traffic
Challenges: Manage Stormwater Ecologically
Solutions: Regrade Stone Work – Install Rain Garden

This residential project constitutes a great example of an ecological solution to a common problem. 

The homeowner was struggling with misgraded drainage. In any rain event, water would backflow onto the driveway and pool in foot trafficked areas. The adjacent lawn formed a moderate berm, offering no drainage.

The client needed the drainage problem solved, and wanted more room for walking on the driveway sidewalk and front patio — especially for their aging parents.

Maas Verde first removed the concrete sidewalk and regraded the area toward a focal point in the middle of the yard. We then laid a new, wider sidewalk and extended the patio with masonry using sawed limestone slabs. 

Finally, we removed the grass berm and replaced it with a rain garden planted with native grasses and other species. In concept, the plantings capture natural runoff from the stonework, and soil berms help maintain the structure. 

By the Numbers

200 sq. ft.: rain garden swale area.

650 sq. ft.: St. Augustine turfgrass removed.

990 gallons: approximate rain garden capacity.

540 gallons: rain captured from impervious surfaces in 1” rain event.

317: new native plants installed.

12: native plant species used.

18-Month Update!

This rain garden is now a full-fledged native habitat. Using only rainwater and Stage 2 restrictive irrigation (one day per week), this homeowner has fostered a sanctuary for hummingbirds, bumble bees, and even a curious fox (caught on Nest Cam)!

Backyard

Priorities: Beautify the backyard and add a living space.
Design: Alternative to a high maintenance lawn area.
Features: Cream limestone slabs, stacked pancake boulders, Desert Willow, wildflower meadow, and succulent garden.

The client wanted to have an inviting, low maintenance landscape suitable for gatherings with a walking path throughout various gardens.

Maas Verde removed Saint Augustine turfgrass and replaced it with a gravel path and several garden sanctuaries.

Cut limestone was added to cover and extend an existing concrete porch to create an outdoor grill and living area.

2,700 sq. ft: Saint Augustine turfgrass removed.

2″ Thick cut limestone added to extend porch.

26: native species planted.