East Windsor Avenue
Alexandria, VA
Medium * In the Ground
Our clients had several low-lying areas that collected and held water for days after heavy storms—turning their sweet golden retriever into a muddy mess and tracking that mess straight into the house. Our initial concept proposed linear rain gardens along the property lines, but after two failed perc tests (a simple test that measures how quickly water drains from the soil), it became clear that the existing soils could not handle additional infiltration. Rather than forcing the site to absorb more water, we pivoted to a conveyance strategy—moving stormwater through the landscape in a way that was both functional and beautiful. Two existing features on site became key design inspirations: a stunning mature river birch and a charming, hand-built potting shed crafted by the homeowner. These elements led us to propose a deck and boardwalk concept that would feel like a natural extension of the shed while carefully avoiding the sensitive root system of the birch. The final design features a two-channel dry riverbed system that captures surface runoff from a neighboring property and guides it gracefully through the site, beneath the deck, and along the lawn’s edge. With only inches of elevation change across the yard, precise grading and swale depth were critical to ensure successful water movement. Native perennial plantings soften the stone channels, enhance seasonal interest, and provide valuable habitat for local wildlife.
Design Tools: Hand renderings & AutoCAD
Materials: Robi Decking (Decking), Irwin Stone (Hardscape), North Creek Nursery (Plants), Merrifield (Plants), Gro-Getters (Plants)
Sod Installation: Hughes Landscaping
Hardscape, Decking, Plant Installation: Client
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