October 2021

To Sit Outside and See the Sky

These were the directions that the homeowner gave Don Hartsell of Carolina Solid Rock Masonry who used his 34 years of experience to create an original extension of their Wilmington home. (Photos by Renee Sauer)

Before the project could begin, Don had to transform a steep slope filled with scrub trees and underbrush. After it was cleared, he hauled in and compacted 80 cubic yards of fill dirt. He then poured a concrete pad for the 450 square foot patio.

The homeowners chose TN Crab Orchard flagstone for the patio and bench to complement the stone veneer used on their house. Chardonnay Country Ledgestone, a cultured stone, was applied to cover the base of this custom-made, 15-foot long seating wall.

Four tons of Crab Orchard stone, with its striations of color and movement, were used.

A portable fire pit offers flexibility for taming chilly afternoons and evenings.

Multicolor River Rounds were used between the patio and adjoining mulched area to help drainage and minimize maintenance.

Stepping stone pathways connect the patio to the rest of the yard..

The Triple Basalt Fountain was a beautiful and sensational project that the homeowners did themselves. The decorative Turtle Creek pebbles they chose coordinate perfectly with the patio’s color palette.

The tranquil sound of bubbling water can be heard across the patio and from the adjacent screened-in porch.

Double-shredded hardwood mulch was used effectively throughout the project to paint an ideal backdrop for the stone and greenery and can be refreshed to enhance the yard year after year.

The homeowners can now sit outside and see the sky. “We’re very pleased with the quality of the work and materials and truly enjoyed the collaboration between Don Hartsell, Stone Garden and Landfall COA.”