Wooded Reflection

Richardson & Associates’ landscape objective for this new home by Ralston Architects reflects the simplicity and strong geometry of the architecture while also offering contrast and planting vignettes. The pallet of boxwood, Carex pennsylvanica, rhododendron, and fern suits the wooded lot and the owners’ request for loose, cloud-like massing of texture and foliage. A small bed tucked between exterior walls offers a lovely pocket of green viewed from the kitchen window. Unique hardscape details include the recessed lighting in the front steps, slab pavers, and a drive with a flush border of bluestone in lieu of a curb. An evergreen screen imparts a sense of enclosure and privacy from the adjacent property while casting shifts of light on the house. A flowering magnolia is planted as a focal point in the front garden and sits on axis with the front door.

  • Architect: Ralston Architects
  • Interiors: Studio Sophîste
  • General Contractor: Thorsen Construction
  • Landscape Contractor: Planted Earth
  • Lighting: Outdoor Illumination, Inc.
  • Photographer: Stacy Zarin Goldberg
A modern two-story home features a wood-paneled front door marked with the number 2680, contrasting white walls, and dark metal accents. A paved walkway leads through a landscaped yard filled with lush green trees, shrubs, and ornamental grasses.
A modern two-story home features a bold exterior of matte black panels and white stone accents. A wooden front door labeled 2680 sits beneath a flat entryway overhang, surrounded by large floor-to-ceiling windows and landscaped greenery under a bright sky.
The entrance of a modern home features a natural wood door set within a white and black exterior frame. A sleek, flat roof overhang with a wood-paneled underside extends over the walkway, while manicured bushes and grasses fill the foreground. The house number 2680 is displayed near the door.
A modern house features a striking exterior with panels of light stone, smooth black walls, and large floor-to-ceiling windows. In the foreground, a manicured garden bed with low shrubs and tall grass sits beside stone steps and a gray slate walkway.
A modern home facade features a white tiled wall next to tall glass windows reflecting trees and sky. Below, round shrubs and tall grasses sit in a stone planter box, set against a green lawn with square stone pavers.
A modern home features a dark charcoal facade with tall, vertical windows and contrasting light-colored walls. A small garden with a manicured round bush and tall grasses sits at the base of the deep entryway. Green trees are reflected in the glass panels.
A modern, two-story home features a striking exterior of matte black panels and white siding. A paved driveway leads to a wooden front door marked 2680 and a multi-pane glass garage door, all set against a backdrop of green trees under a bright blue sky.