Artists Loie Hollowell and Brian Caverly reside in a historic 1909 rowhouse in Ridgewood, Queens. We started a design conversation that sought to improve the ailing rear facade of their home and transform the yard for their family’s use. Inspired by Hollowell’s artwork exploring themes of female sexuality and motherhood, the resulting design conceptualized their backyard as a protective space reminiscent of a pregnant belly. This influence shaped the garden into a multi-level space, with a sunken, U-shaped "vessel" that provides a sense of privacy and enclosure. The layout features a deck off the kitchen that sits above a new basement level patio. These are connected by a transitional planted landing that descends into the main sunken gathering area, which is an adaptable, multi-use space, defined by distinctive, seating-height planter walls.
The design expresses itself through textured surfaces. Vertical elements like the retaining and planter walls are crafted from board-formed concrete, while horizontal surfaces feature pea gravel. Layered over these textures are the varied forms of plantings, including two flowering dogwood trees and a diverse mix of perennials, offering a variety of changing interest throughout the year while nourishing birds and pollinators. Granite boulders uncovered while excavating the yard are a record of the local geological history and were incorporated into the landscaping as well.
A significant feature of the project is its focus on sustainability and urban ecology. Helping reduce city sewer overflows and promoting urban resilience, the design features a rain garden system that redirects stormwater from the roof into the garden to be absorbed on-site. The project also improved the rear-facade of the building with increases to insulation levels and installation of triple-pane windows adhering to Passive House standards. Overall, the project balances privacy, lifestyle, and ecological considerations within the constraints of the Landmarks Preservation Commission.