Bucks County Farmstead

 

Problem:

• Improve the circulation throughout the site, so the 18th century buildings work in harmony with newer building additions.

• Develop spaces for outdoor living that stimulate the owner’s interest in gardening.
• Detail site elements to be in keeping with the vernacular tradition of a farmstead.

Solution:

• A low stone wall constructed as a datum, to visually link the buildings, and create a physical separation between the public arrival space and the rest of the property. It is composed of dry-laid, tightly fitted native red argillite stone. The new driveway configuration allows adequate space for a vehicle to turn around, yet is small enough to remain unobtrusive.
• New flagstone walks were configured to improve access to the entrance principally used by the owner on the side of the building. A fence constructed of peeled cedar surrounds the new dooryard garden, where perennials provide a succession of seasonal blooms.  Traditional gate hardware was used, including a “ball and chain” type closer.
• A rustic cedar arbor was constructed near a new flagstone terrace, to provide an outdoor seating space with shelter from the southern exposure. 
• Near the barn, an enclosed cutting garden was constructed. Raised beds separated by stone foot paths allow easy access to the flower beds to facilitate maintenance. A variety of aggressive annual cutting flowers can be grown and contained without fear of them invading and colonizing other garden spaces.

 

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