Once a dreary front yard covered by ivy, we’re creating a softer, friendlier, and happier landscape. The project introduces a new pedestrian entry so guests don’t have to walk up the driveway, a small decomposed granite courtyard, and planting that works under a mature cedar tree.
Set it in Stone
Accompanying an interior remodel, the outdoor spaces around this traditional Westside home are getting thoughtfully updated. SSLA is using simple materials, including concrete and stone, and plants that harmonize with the style of the house. A re-configured pool provides just enough room to wade without taking up valuable space in the small backyard.
Wood vs. Composite: Which Material Is Best for You?
When it comes to upgrading a backyard with fencing, decking, and other woodwork, there are basically two types of materials that are commonly used: wood and composite. With wood, you have a natural material that is created from various tree species like cedar, oak, etc. Composite is a man-made material that is created from elements such as recycled fibers and plastic. Each material has its pros and cons, so learning more about them and how they can attribute to projects can help you make the right decision for your home.
Decking
When it comes to creating a new deck for the backyard, you can choose from several wood material types or composite. After you calculate deck size, you can see which material will cost more. For the most part, a pressure-treated wood deck will cost around $15 to $25 per square foot. When you choose composite materials, the price basically doubles at $30 to $45 a square foot.
While the cost may be higher, composite requires less maintenance as you never need to sand the material, seal it or stain. However, it must be cleaned to stay in good condition. The material is also more durable as it will resist stains and hold up during harsh weather conditions. However, many people choose to stick with wood decking as the material does not have an artificial look and feel.
Choosing between wood and composite material for decking comes down to opinion as well as how much you want to spend, and the time needed for maintenance. Write down your personal pros and cons for each so that you can make a decision that works best for you.
Fencing
Are you considering a new fence for your backyard? If so, then you have seen there are many material options you can choose from standard wood, pressure-treated wood, iron, and many composite choices. Many homeowners opt for staining pressure treated wood to look like cedar, so they get the durability of pressure-treated wood but the look of cedar. The cedar material is more expensive than standard pressure treated wood and has a nice coloring. You can easily stain the standard wood to look like cedar, to save money on your installation cost.
Like decking, the composite material will cost more, but it has benefits such as durability, style, and low maintenance. Reviewing the price points, plus pros and cons can help you make the best choice for your budget and fencing needs.
Porch Elements
The porch of a home is also an important space. In a backyard setting, a covered patio or porch area is a great place to relax. If you already have a porch or patio, you can upgrade it by reinstalling a new ceiling. A patio ceiling must be installed from quality materials so that it can be weather-resistant, providing proper protection from the elements and shade.
A popular option in today’s market is beadboard made from fiber cement. Instead of using wood that requires constant maintenance, the composite material can be installed to protect the upper portion of the porch area.
The composite material is durable, providing protection from snow, sleet, rain, and the sun’s rays. With this material installed, you don’t have to worry about issues with your porch ceiling for many years to come.
Upgrading your backyard can be fun. The first step is choosing your project and then materials. Consider your budget and how long a material will last as well as upkeep before making your final decision. While composite material may be more costly in the beginning, the durability of the material may save you money in the long run.
Jordan Swift is a contributor to Innovative Building Materials. He is a blogger and a content writer for the building materials industry with an interest in landscaping and outdoor remodeling. Jordan is focused on educating homeowners, contractors, and architects on innovative materials and methods of construction that increase property value, improve sustainability, and create a warm and welcoming ambiance.
Casting Shade
We custom designed this shade structure to visually knit together with a recent backyard remodel in the hills above the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. The structure makes reference to the lines of the Mid-Century Modern house while creating an intimate lounge area adjacent to the pool.
SSLA on the move
We have moved offices! As of December 20, 2018, our new address is 13261 Moorpark Street, Suite 106. We’re just east of our old office, now on the border of Sherman Oaks and Studio City (but no border wall issues here). The office is also a few steps from the LA River, giving us the opportunity for lunchtime strolls along the North Valleyheart Riverwalk Greenway. Feel free to drop in!
Richard Lillard Outdoor Classroom
Capturing Stormwater (and Attention!)
Segal Shuart recently designed two interpretive panels for the City of Los Angeles, Bureau of Engineering. These panels graphically describe significant infrastructure improvements made to Penmar Park in Venice and Temescal Canyon Park in Pacific Palisades that collect stormwater from nearby storm drains, preventing runoff of pollutants into the Pacific Ocean. Stormwater is now collected in underground reservoirs and re-used for irrigation purposes.
Rising in Burbank
Currently one of the major projects planned in Burbank, Screenland Drive is a 13-story mixed use building with 40 apartments and ground floor restaurant/retail space. High-end amenities are provided for residents, and the open spaces include a roof terrace and second level pool and lounge. Segal Shuart is working with executive architect Roger Ferris + Partners and design architect Price Architects Inc.
Image courtesy of Roger Ferris + Partners
Rear garden construction at Wende in full swing
The Wende Museum rear garden is getting closer to completion. The garden will include an event area, pieces from the museum's collection, fire pit, and water feature. Specimen trees have been delivered, and board-formed concrete seat walls and elements have been poured.
Ranch property keeps it natural
Site improvements have been completed at a 4-acre horse ranch directly adjacent to the Angeles National Forest in Lake View Terrace. Permeable hardscape, river rock walls, meandering paths, and native planting help tie the site to its context.
The Wende Museum Opens
After many years of tireless work, The Wende Museum has finally opened the doors to its new Culver City home at the former Armory Building. The Opening Celebration was held on Saturday, November 18, followed by a community Open House the next day.
While a big push over the past eight weeks readied the museum for the Opening, work will continue on the exterior spaces, which will include an event space and sculpture garden. From design through construction, Segal Shuart has collaborated with PARAVANT Architects, Michael Boyd, Jon Levy Lighting Productions, Ranselaar Landscape, Gafcon Inc. and GEM Contractors.