A four-acre terrace, containing mature maples and situated between
a forty foot high granite outcropping on its east and beautiful views
to rolling hills over a small meadow on its west was reorganized to
provide access throughout when the clients mobility became limited
to a wheelchair. The plan had three major objectives...
First, a gently sloping loop path was provided. It aligns with
existing rock features on the sites perimeter including old
stone walls and this great rock outcropping. Carefully graded so that
it would be visually absorbed into the landscape, the loop path connects
existing amenities and site features such as the swimming pool, barn
and views.
Second, these existing amenities were rehabilitated to accommodate
wheelchair access. Here, a woven gateway and stone path lead the eye
through the pool area and make access possible.
Third, the interior living spaces of the house were connected
to the loop path by a series of outdoor terraces and gentle ramps
to the west of the house. Here a continuous, on-grade deck acts as
a collector from all the interior spaces. The low indigenous stone
wall provides for a sense of safety while permitting clear views over
the meadow. The stone terrace provides additional space for gatherings
and connects to the loop path to its west.
At the end of the deck, adjacent to a new sun room, a generous
gathering space overlooks a rectangular lawn and the entrance to the
swimming pool area.
Beneath the deck, a lattice woven from ripped planks catches the
slant of afternoon light.
Cascading pools are clearly visible from both the deck and the
lawn, creating planes of water that help define the grade transition.
The pools include a striking light-and-sound-transforming fountain
made from scraps left over from construction of the bluestone terrace.
The project to provide access at this private residence is in
continuing development at this time. It has, however, already made
it possible for the client to access virtually his whole site; as
well as provided him with new places in the landscape.