Kennett Square Cottage

It was clear from our first meeting that this client had flair when it came to fashion and decor. Paying homage to her eclectic sense of style, we collaborated to transform this semi-urban Kennett Square cottage and its dated grounds into a personalized space that flowed naturally from inside to out.

Inspired by the client’s artful mixing of modern and traditional, texture, and color, we chose to weave native grasses, perennials, and small shrubs throughout the premises and remove all turf grass. Our selections were strategic as the property had drainage issues and poor soil; so the plantings needed to withstand a variety of conditions. In addition to being sustainable, the designated vegetation needed to offer intimate outdoor spaces where the client could read, reflect, and simply enjoy her lush surroundings.

When considering the cottage with its Juliet balcony and myriad of windows, we realized that the connection to the outdoors was tangible in every room. Our goal with the patio then was to reinforce this architecturally. With an area for sitting and dining, the Bluestone terrace became an extension of the house, expanding the perceived size of the home and grounds and allowing family and guests to move freely from house to outdoors and back. Mixing established planting with urns of palms and ferns as well as potted house plants further integrated the indoors and outdoors. In the same vein, we suspended orbs of twinkling lights from the trees to echo the light fixtures found within the home and create the illusion of a larger space.

Through the strategic reworking and connecting of exteriors and interiors, we succeeded in creating a private oasis where the client could experiment with a variety of plants, containers, art, and furniture. With “Becky’s Garden,” we successfully replicated her love for fashion and lush decor in the natural world, creating harmony between the home and its grounds and a place for creative play.