CountryScape Transforms Historic Deerfield Home with Stone Patio, Walkway, and Landscape Design
CountryScape was hired by a local builder renovating a historic home in Deerfield, Massachusetts, to create a welcoming landscape for a young family. We were asked to design a new entry walkway, plantings, and a patio space at the back of the house to highlight the scenic view of Deerfield’s rolling fields.
Our client wanted natural materials and an authentic design aesthetic to complement the historic home. We chose Ashfield Stone, a locally quarried Goshen stone schist, known for its natural beauty and durability. CountryScape’s skilled stonemasons enjoy working with Ashfield Stone for its ease of shaping, allowing us to create a tightly fitted flagstone surfaces for patios and walkways. We typically set flagstone no more than 1” apart and often even closer, finishing with polymeric grout to prevent weeds and ants from emerging through the joints. For added durability and a natural look, Ashfield Stone wall stone was used to build a bench wall and steps.
Front Walkway Transformation
In the front yard, we installed a new Ashfield Stone flagstone walkway, leading from the driveway to the main entrance. The original entry featured a worn concrete walkway and landing that didn’t match the home’s historic charm. Our new walkway design used large, naturally edged flagstone pieces to give it a more organic appearance. We also covered the old concrete step with flagstone to match the walkway.
A unique addition to this project was the installation of an electric snow melt system beneath the flagstone walkway. This automated system activates when it detects freezing temperatures and precipitation, warming the stone to prevent snow and ice buildup. CountryScape has installed many of these systems, which offer both efficiency and convenience for our clients. Finally, we completed the front yard with a new foundation planting featuring hydrangeas and a lush new lawn.
Backyard Patio with a View
In the backyard, we created a similar flagstone patio, again using Ashfield Stone flagstone for the surface and Ashfield Stone wall stone for a patio bench. We prefer large flagstone pieces for these installations because of their durability and stability. Small flagstone pieces can lead to an uneven patio surface, while larger pieces create a smoother, wobble-free surface. Our team uses a mini excavator and a vacuum system to precisely set these larger stones.
The Ashfield Stone wall in the backyard is a dry-laid, double-sided wall crafted by our expert stonemasons. Constructed without mortar, this type of wall can flex slightly with New England’s freeze-thaw cycles, reducing the risk of failure. A properly built dry-laid stone wall can last for decades with minimal maintenance, and natural stone’s durability far outperforms that of concrete wall products.
Let CountryScape Transform Your Outdoor Space
If you’re interested in a custom stone patio, walkway, or wall, contact CountryScape today! We specialize in designing durable, beautiful outdoor spaces that last a lifetime. Ask us about radiant snow melt systems to eliminate winter shoveling, too!. CountryScape proudly serves Deerfield, Massachusetts, and the surrounding towns.
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