From the beginning, the clients embraced landscape and LEED sustainable design principles in the design of their new residence, which overlooks a large tidal estuary of Casco Bay. Studioverde was selected based on our expertise in ecological landscape design to create a beautiful, high-performing landscape that minimized impacts to the estuary. The clients requested that the landscape design should enhance their home visually, provide ecological benefits to birds and pollinators, stabilize the steeply sloped site, and reduce maintenance requirements.
Studioverde’s design focused on soil restoration using soil mixes which were designed and applied to expedite root development. Earthen mounds, loose stone, boulders and rocks were juxtaposed with plantings to create walkways and patios. Local stone was used as a reflective topdress to reduce heat-sink areas around the residence for outdoor comfort and to reduce energy use from heat gain.
The plant palette included a variety of native plants that provide food and cover for wildlife, and adaptive plantings were used to stabilize slope areas. Irrigation was eliminated – which saved on initial construction and long term maintenance costs and helped the project qualify for the maximum LEED water efficiency credits.
Collaborators:
- Fore Solutions (LEED)
- Portland Builders
- Delucca-Hoffman (Engineers)