This formal backyard garden project in Silverdale was designed by Emily Russell of Russell Design Source. Much of the homeowner’s original lawn was removed to make way for a courtyard patio and furnishings, raised garden beds and formal, shade-tolerant plantings.

Before
Once all of the old, mossy lawn was removed, we brought in truck loads of dark, rich organic soil to create raised beds. Then, we set up concrete forms for the courtyard patio and walkway located on the side of the house.

The concrete steps were poured first.
Emily’s plan called for three Dwarf Southern Magnolia trees, pyramidal trees that bloom in the spring, along with shade tolerant plants such such as Lenten Rose hellebores and Old Fashion Bleeding Hearts.

The leaves of Dwarf Southern Magnolias are rusty-brown on the undersides.
Ashlar slate stamped concrete looks a lot like tile though is much more affordable. The concrete was antiqued, a technique used in concrete applications to create a marbling effect, and sealed to protect it from stains.

This courtyard showcases the beauty of natural gray concrete.
The courtyard offers a great space to gather and entertain, and the marble planters and furniture selected by the homeowner complement it beautifully.

After
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Thanks for reading our blog. Northwest Construction & Landscape, LLC is a Kitsap County landscaping company that offers landscaping, decorative concrete and lawn maintenance services to homes and businesses across Kitsap and Pierce counties.