STONE IN THE LANDSCAPE

Stone has been used to create buildings, structures and sculpture since the dawn of civilization. Stone is permanent and durable, outlasting any other substance in structure, ornamentation, and in beauty. Historically, mainly locally available stone was used, but at times the stone was shipped long distances. Numerous types of stone for landscape use are available today, varying in suitability and strength. They come in all shapes, sizes, colors and textures. Which stone to choose depends on the type of project, architecture of the home or other buildings, surroundings and your personal preference.

Stone is timeless and complements many locales and landscape styles. Locally available stone is often more economical and sustainable, and several types of basalt and flagstone are indigenous to the Mid-Columbia, along with different kinds of river rock and glacial boulders.

Stone in the landscape is used to build retaining and free-standing walls, flagstone patios, stone steps, columns and pillars, water features, benches, planters and sculpture. Stone may be dry-stacked, dry-laid, or joined with mortar. In either case, good workmanship and a solid foundation are essential, as is selecting durable stone. Stones should be tightly and securely fitted, with each stone set to reveal its individual beauty. Every stone has its own identity.

From a design standpoint, two or a maximum of three different types of stone should be combined, with one principle signature stone being used throughout the landscape, if feasible. However, some contrast in texture is important and too many stones of exactly the same shade can blur into an amorphous mass.

Stone walls around a patio can serve as sitting walls. Flagstone patios with wider gaps between the stones can be planted with Creeping Thyme or other drought-tolerant ground cover plants. Stone used for walls or patios sets off and enhances any planting, being a delightful and versatile companion to a large variety of plants.

Stone as a building material is initially more costly than concrete or brick, but its permanence and lasting beauty add an enduring element to the landscape. Often even small, refined touches of stone enhance the garden.

At Mount Hood Gardens, our own stonemason crew has constructed numerous dry-stack and free-standing stone walls, flagstone patios, stone steps and stairs in the Mid-Columbia, among other stone work projects. Please explore the following photos for examples of our work.

Spacious Patio Landscape: The north hillside of this large private residence, located in the foothills of Mt. Hood, required elaborate excavation and drain tile work to accommodate the bi-level patios and to direct waterflow down the slope away from the home. The lower patio next to the residence was constructed out of smooth Bluestone, as were the stone steps. The upper, smaller patio, sporting a built-in outdoor fireplace, consists of native and less-refined Camas basalt, to blend with and form a transition to the natural surroundings.

The hillside prior to construction, July 2007	Start of work and demolition of the existing sidewalk, late July 2007. Somebody is having fun!
The lower patio is taking shape, late July 2007. Note the ramp intended for stairs to the upper patio.	Northeast entrance steps leading to the main patio - the stone work is almost complete. Late October 2007.
Moss rock terracing walls and Bluestone steps to the finished upper patio, early November 2007.	The remodeled east porch is supported by stone piers constructed out of the same moss rock as the terracing walls on the north side, with Bluestone steps leading up to it, early October 2008.

Marion's Patio and Entry:

The owner's home prior to patio construction and entry addition, July 1995. The concrete pad west of the house was transformed into a flagstone patio with surrounding wrought-iron trellis.	In June 2001, an inviting arch frames the spacious flagstone patio, planted with Dwarf Creeping Thyme.
Numerous details add interest and take advantage of the smallest planting spaces, such as these Sempervivum plants (Hen & Chicks), June 2002.	The patio is still going strong, allowing for outdoor dining well into fall, late October 2008.
In 2007, an entry was added to the southwest side of the residence. The finished rock work includes a Bluestone landing and steps, as well as a second patio on the south side, late October 2008.	The side walls of the entry were faced with Bluestone as well, and a planter was tucked in along the south side, early September 2009. The arch to the left separates the new entry from the more casual west flagstone patio.

Serene Backyard: This peaceful backyard in The Dalles, Oregon consisted of a steep slope overlooking gurgling Mill Creek. The newly-constructed, spacious patio surrounded by a low stone sitting wall accommodates small and large gatherings in an enjoyable setting. Comfortable stone steps lead up from the lowest part of the garden to the patio in the center.

A view from the newly-created gravel pad for the future patio, with Mill Creek flowing below, late November 2006	Looking down at the future patio site from above, with grading already completed, late November 2006
The same view in early October of 2007, after construction of the patio and steps	Ready to enjoy the patio and scenic surroundings, early October 2007
Beautiful Bluestone stairs lead from the lower level situated right above Mill Creek to the patio in the center of the hillside.

Natural Landscape with Stone: The area on the east side of this private residence in Mt. Hood, Oregon consisted of a steep slope not favorable to walking or gardening. After construction, the wide, sweeping gravel path interspersed with stone steps flows into a small gathering patio built out of Bluestone. Large boulders furnish extra seating to relax and enjoy the gorgeous view of Mt. Hood framed by colorful, natural plantings.

The east slope before construction, mid June 2008, with Mt. Hood as a backdrop.	During construction in late June 2008
The finished landscape in mid September. Boulders edge both sides of the path and lead the eye toward the patio below, mid September 2008.	The southwest plantings beyond the new patio were embellished as well, and tie in with the south meadow below, mid September 2008.
Small stone steps framed with native boulders lead to the upper part of the residence.

Moss Rock Wall at Georgiana Smith Park For a detailed description and additional photos of Georgiana Smith Park, please visit Public Spaces. .

This sturdy moss rock stone wall at Georgiana Smith Park in downtown Hood River retains the slope bordering the north side walk and allows for extra seating, July 2008.

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