LASN is a photographically oriented, professional journal featuring topics of concern and state-of-the-art projects designed or influenced by registered Landscape Architects.
Issue link: https://landscapearchitect.epubxp.com/i/320919
(Continued on page 16) 14 Landscape Architect and Specifier News Kirby Builders in Bowling Green, Kentucky, has been building and remodeling homes since 2002. Led by Kyle Kirby, the firm has been involved with the Bowling Green Parade of Homes for many years. In 2013, Kirby and his client wanted to make a splash at the event. The team wanted to create a backyard family retreat to showcase in the Parade of Homes, their timeframe was just over eight weeks, from demolition to installation. Kirby knew that teaming up with the right contractor and supplier would be critical to the project's success, and enlisted contractors Mark and Daniel Meador with Unique Hardscapes and Tim Martin at Lee Brick and Block to complete the installation. He had worked with both companies in the past, and knew they could be counted on to complete the project on time and create a unique area his clients would love. Design The design called for multiple levels in the large backyard. The main level would include a large kidney shaped pool connected to a basketball court; a lower level nearby would house a hot tub covered by a pergola. An upper landing would connect the garage to the main residence; and a raised deck would define a covered dining space with a seat wall and fire pit nearby. Early in the design phase, Martin opted for a larger, slab-type paver for the outdoor living area, which would fit in the expansive space better than smaller dimensioned pavers, and speed installation. A request from the homeowners – reducing the heat around the pool – made the paver selection even easier. "Pavestone was able to manufacture a light colored face mix paver using white cement that greatly reduced the heat island effect," Martin said. "We went around with a heat gun and measured the temperatures of other concrete surfaces, and the 'Capriana Café' product was the coolest of any we tested." Installation The installation was challenging. There was a tight timeframe, a firm opening date and the home was an advertised element of the Parade of Homes. Multiple workers from all trades were present on the job site, so space was at a premium. The front yard became a staging area for the backyard's hardscape products. h a rd s c a p e s By Garan Engelen, Pavestone, LLC Outdoor Living On Parade Above The design and construction teams that crafted an expansive outdoor living area at this Bowling Green, Ky., residence had just eight weeks to transform the backyard for the local Parade of Homes. The project is comprised of multiple hardscaped tiers and includes a pool, hot tub, fire pit, an outdoor dining area and gathering spaces. 14-17.indd 14 5/21/14 1:10 PM