Rustic and Resourceful | East Haddam, Connecticut
All the stone for this project was found directly on-site in the woods — every patio stone, every step, every boulder. This build included two patios, one by the back door to the house and one by the pond on the lower lawn area, as well as stepping stones around a future hot tub space that connects to a set of stone stairs leading up the steep hill to the house. A new boulder wall safely eliminates the drop-off from the back deck to the house. All of this accomplished with stone resourcefully found on-site, adding rustic beauty and function to this outdoor space.
Each build is a slow and careful process. Some of the boulders found on-site weighed well over two tons. The beginning of the first patio by the back door connects to a set of stairs leading to the back deck. The only way we could move some of the larger stones was by lifting them in tandem from both sides with our excavator and a track skid steer. It’s projects like this that make us thankful to our own heavy equipment, enabling us to get the job done without outsourcing.
The crew worked hard to make this space safer and more useful by adding stone stairs and a boulder wall to eliminate the drop-off from the deck. Each step was carefully placed, allowing for a comfortable stride and ensuring stability for anyone navigating the path. The earthy hues and textured surface of the stone adds an organic charm to the space, harmonizing with the surrounding environment. The weathered surfaces of the boulders hint at their long history, as if they had been part of the land for centuries, imbuing the space with a sense of timelessness.
At the heart of this smaller, second patio on the lower lawn, the simple stone fire pit serves as a captivating centerpiece. In use, this patio becomes a sanctuary for connection and relaxation. It presents an intimate space where loved ones can gather, exchanging stories and laughter while being mesmerized by the gentle dance of the fire at the water’s edge.
