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Serving Salem and the Willamette Valley Since 1961

How to Get Away From It All In Your Own Back Yard

By
Jo Koenig
Red apples on a tree branch in a lush garden with a cozy patio in the background.

Time to Get Away

August is a great month to pack up and get away from it all. That is, after all, part of the reason everyone looks forward to summer so eagerly. But what if you could escape and get that same sense of peace and tranquility just a few steps from your back door? It really is possible!

Homeowners Linda and Jack Stewart wanted to create just such a back yard oasis.  As you can see from the “before” photo, the original space looked a lot like the typical Salem back yard. They knew it was going to be a big task to accomplish their goal. But working together with C&R Remodeling, the transformation was completed in a matter of months.

Before and After

About the Garden House

The Garden House is a 374 square foot structure designed to accommodate a variety of activities. There is space for working on creative projects, watching football by the fire, gathering with family, and gazing comfortably at the adjoining Zen garden. A covered breezeway connects the Garden House to the main residence. Street access is provided via a sidewalk along the garage from the front driveway and allows events to be hosted without traffic through the main residence.

Garden House Interior

Embracing the Natural Surroundings

The Garden House interior artfully complements the surrounding environment with a soothing color palette and natural materials. The clear wood trim and fireplace stone relate to the trees and rock formations just outside two French doors. Custom concrete floors are embedded with stones and shells and flow gracefully outside to the patio. The adjacent pond lends ambience with sounds of water gently bubbling and flowing over rocks. Because the structure includes multiple skylights and windows, warm natural light floods the room. And when wind catches tree branches and leaves outside, shadows dance across the walls and floor. This beautiful space delivers the perfect indoor/outdoor blended experience.

Garden House Interior

The Perfect Environment to Relax

Everyone who visits this Garden House and back yard is enveloped by the sense of tranquility and peace. It is somehow both cozy and expansive, a feat accomplished by the expert design of Linda Stewart, C&R Senior Interior Designer.  She has created the perfect multi-purpose space that graciously welcomes overflow company, family gatherings, football-watching parties, and holiday celebrations.

But this back yard gem really shines when Linda and her husband simply want to retreat and relax. No airline tickets required.

Natural Interior Environment

 

Ready to Transform Your Back Yard?

Would you like to discuss the possibility of creating your own back yard oasis? Contact us or call today at 503-363-1343 and our Remodeling Consultant will visit your home to help you explore options that will work for your unique environment.

 

Zen garden

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