Form and function

A Lehigh Valley family had a backyard that was not conducive to their active parenting lifestyle, so designer Joshua Gillow and his team at MasterPLAN were asked to help them achieve an intimate, functional and low-maintenance outdoor living space.

1. The crew removed an old-style composite walk out deck and brick landing, and installed a rustic paver patio. The ground near the deck had become a storm water collection area resulting in seepage through the existing window well. The solution was to level the ground, cut away part of the swale and build up the window well.
2. In order to provide shelter from seasonal elements, MasterPLAN added a roof system and incorporated skylights to allow light back into the house. The company also added a ceiling fan.



3. The patio was continued beyond the roof-line for a more open feel, and the crew put in a natural gas fire pit and seating walls as an entertainment focal point. The warm LED lighting cast against the stone walls creates a more dynamic space in the evenings.