The character of natural stonework in the home landscape – Chappaqua NY We are blessed with such a wealth of wonderful natural resources and material in Westchester. There is a rich diversity of geology which creates opportunities to craft unique individual design features in the landscape. Depending on access and availability natural stone can be easily incorporated into a landscape. Whether for retaining walls, paths, steps, patios or just for effect, stone lends itself to organic, naturalistic forms and shapes. So instead of burying or discarding natural stone (which also meets sustainability standards as opposed to trucking or importing stone from other geographical regions where it does not conform to local geology in appearance), I say, let it speak! Let it sing with its own voice. Working with natural elements has many advantages and rewards. Not just the catch phrases or keywords of sustainability but real tangible savings in time and money. Aren’t things complicated enough without our going out of our way to make things appear exotic and expensive (not that I don”t like those solutions where appropriate as well)? In my considerable experience working with the land, if we are open to allowing the contours and natural elements present in our beautiful world to participate in our design process we are more likely to accidentally invite good fortune to accompany our work. I look forward to the light of each new day shining on our ever changing and evolving life and landscape experience. Oh by the way did I forget to mention some of the awesome attributes of natural stone. For instance, the deer don’t eat it. It doesn’t need water, light or pruning… well you get the idea.. no maintenance. So have fun and let us Design with Stone! Oh and don’t forget about Earth, Sky and Water! Actually that’s the project on the lake that we’re presently working on. Wouldn’t you like to know… Stay Tuned and… Enjoy Life! Jay Archer, President 914-560-6570 jay@greenjaylandscapedesign.com
