Naturalistic design for a year-round camp utilizing granite boulders, permeable hardscape + native plants. Installed and managed by Mark Arsenault, Brad Meserve and Distinctive Gardening.
The landscape at Great East Lake is a great example of environmental stewardship. This project required a permit from the state of Maine to operate within the shoreland zone. Specifically, a retaining structure was needed in order create adequate spacing for vehicular traffic in the area abutting the residence and above the lake.
Using blasted stone from the site and sourcing additional hard goods from no further than 10 miles away, the hardscape at Great East Lake appears as though it’s been there for centuries. In addition, a heavy dose of native plants aided in the vision to develop the landscape in a naturalistic fashion.
As years pass and the landscape matures, we inch closer to experiencing absolute sense of place. A place where nature’s impact is evident and man co-exists. Though we’ve been involved in several projects of note since Great East Lake’s completion, it will forever remain a ZBA flagship project.
Viewing the art studio from the primary walkway
ZBA custom hand rail and native stone steps installed by Mark Arsenault
Virginia Creeper, Diervilla and Stephanandra are integrated into the boulder wall to mask the stone's immense presence.
A view from the bottom of the boulder retaining wall and artist's studio in the background
Newly installed Sweet Gale softens the large boulder accents and retains the soil at the apex of the wall
Pinxterbloom Azalea and Male Fern are draped over the side of native boulders retaining the soil below
Young blooming Large Fothergilla with native boulder accents sourced within 10 miles of the site
The 3-season porch is adorned with plantings like Pinxterbloom Azalea that allow for unobstructed views to the lake
Large integrated boulder wall by Mark Arsenault installed among the Red Oaks and naturalistic plantings
View from the parking area down to the lake shows the project's immense scope
Custom, native stone bench in a naturalized setting, accompanied by spring blooming Grape Hyacinth.
Grape hyacinths
Yellow lady slipper
View down to the lake and the permeable, native stone patio and seasonal deck
Native granite steps and ZBA designed hand rail with Wood Fern and Stephanandra
Native stone walkway and patio, custom cedar light post with Hayscented Fern and Seven Sons Flower tree.
Great East Lake
