Land Use & Site Ecology
The house is located on a previously developed lot in a previously developed community, minimizing the environmental impacts and potential ecological fragmentation that occurs with many new developments.
The goal of the landscape design is to improve the on-site species diversity and ecological function while providing a productive and attractive landscape for human use. Native grass and perennial meadows—along property lines and rights-of-way—act as sponges, intercepting storm water runoff from Oak Road and adjacent properties and preventing excess runoff from the project site. Meadows also encourage soil regeneration and provide wildlife food and habitat. A low-maintenance, low-mow turf grass covers discrete, level, programmed areas of the site and ornamental plants were chosen for drought tolerance, native status, and wildlife or human benefit. Terraced bio-retention beds: 1) leverage the site’s steep slope; 2) manage grey water and rainwater; and 3) eliminate transport to and treatment in off-site facilities. Invasive exotics were removed and an eradication program is ongoing. Plant selection and landscape design reflect a desire to create productive landscapes that benefit residents and area wildlife while regenerating soil quality and reducing storm water runoff. These measures provide a template for creating an even larger network of ecological viability in the community.