River Home Sanctuary | Bellevue, WA Patios & Walkways

When the clients wanted to create a special, more private front yard and entrance to their home, they already knew exactly who to talk to. Our relationship with the couple began when we met with the homeowners to discuss some trees that had been damaged and need to be replaced on their property. Shortly after the tree replacement project was finished, we were invited back to the property to revamp their front yard. Since 2007, we have worked on 7 other landscaping, renovation, and addition projects with the clients at their other properties. We could not ask for a higher compliment than repeat business.

Beforehand, the front yard was a simple ‘builder grade’ yard with nothing more than a lawn and basic plantings. The clients wanted a more private entry to their home that made guests feel like they were entering a unique resort upon arriving. A ‘Northwest Mountain Estate’ concept was their main inspiration. The project was completed in just 1 month. Since the existing site did not have enough of a natural slope to support the large water feature desired, our construction team built a large earth berm along the street so that our waterfall could fall back towards the front door and nearby patio.
Skillfully blending a free-standing river rock privacy wall, the earth berm, waterfall, boulder outcroppings, workshop, and dense, strategically placed plants and trees, the front yard was transformed into a private mountain courtyard. The waterfall flows to the center of the stamped concrete walkways leading from the parking area to the home and sets the mood for the entire space. The fire pit gets plenty of use enjoying summer evenings with friends and family. 

This is also a favorite house party location on their property, perfect for setting the mood for wine tastings and accommodating large guest lists. The small river rock-clad workshop doubles as a small art studio and pottery room with kiln. Both beautiful and functional, this space continues to showcase timeless northwest mountain resort-style.