This Seattle residence was a challenge in many ways. First and foremost, was the small space and accessibility issue. Next, was how to maximize the space by both creating privacy and a usable area. The client’s wish list included a covered space to park in next to the alley, a space to entertain friends and relax, room to grow vegetables and fruit, and replacement of the dilapidated fence and lower deck area. A tall order for this small city lot.
We met to discuss the project in fall of 2010 and began the preliminary design work. The project was put on hold as the clients’ lives got busy, a wedding took place, and then the extended season of rain and cold weather put a bit of a damper on the urgency of the project.
Once things calmed down and dried up we resumed work on the project and in late spring finalized the design. We then began the process of getting bids for the installation from contractors. It seemed that we weren’t the only ones that had put off breaking ground until the weather cleared. Contractors were swamped and the bids were slow to come back. We received the bids and finalized the numbers in late June and got on the schedule for installation.
Construction of the project started in mid-July and finished late August. As with any project there were delays ranging from an unforeseen tree root that forced us to reconfigure the stairs and wall, to permitting issues with the carport, and a waterline that was found to be less than adequate for the new irrigation that needed to be repaired.
All in all, the project went well and the clients, as well as the neighborhood cats, are happy and glad to have their yard back and look forward to using their new space for many years to come.
