Client Overview
When Scott and Arlene Kringle moved into their home in Minneapolis, they wanted an outdoor space where they could sit and watch the sunset over Lake Nokomis. The goal was a peaceful patio within a landscape of green and flowering plants that look good but are low maintenance. They wanted color in the summer and green in the winter.
Challenge
The Kringles wanted a functional and comfortable space that looked great but blended with the overall landscape of the neighborhood because they didn’t want to stand out. Scott Kringle said, “Whatever you come up with, make it look like it’s always been here.”
The patio area is a 11×12 space, and when Minnehaha Falls Landscaping arrived, the red brick on the stoop was in rough shape, and the yard was overgrown with hostas. A new front patio would give Scott and Arlene a lovely space to relax, under the canopy of mature and majestic trees that provide shade throughout the day. And, a garden renovation in both the front and backyard would spruce things up, while adding beauty to the property.
Solution
Minnehaha Falls Landscape Architect Tom Kerby met with the Kringles to talk about what they wanted to accomplish and to exchange ideas. Once that process was complete, Tom created a landscape design plan, and provided paver samples and colors. Scott says, “Tom had a vision and we left it to the professional.”
New pavers were laid and a seatwall and column installed. In addition, the front entry portico was rebuilt, and the front stoop was veneered with matching pavers. Several plants were added, including Ghost Fern, Hydrangea ‘Little Quick Fire’ and splashes of color with Chelone ‘Hotlips’, orange Echinacea Kismet. The plants are beautiful, and attract pollinators.
Results
The Kringles’ west facing patio is fresh and new, yet blends in with others on the block, and Scott and Arlene are watching the sun go down in style. “Our patio is private and looks like it belongs there.”
“It was a fantastic top-notch experience. The Minnehaha Falls Landscaping crew was meticulous, and Tom listened and went above and beyond to achieve our goals.”
