In the spring of 2021, Laura and Stephen Johnson purchased their new home on a quiet, two-acre lot in Southampton, Massachusetts. They were drawn to the historic charm of the house, which was built in the 1860s as part of what was then a 100-acre farm. The location of the home was a big draw for them. They enjoy the quiet, rural surroundings, but also appreciate being within a short drive of several of the larger towns in the Connecticut River Valley. The natural features of the site were also appealing. Much of the property feels secluded and pleasantly sheltered within woodlands. A small, trickling stream meanders through a forested wetland, flowing out the northeast corner of the property. In addition, the home's position on an east-facing hillside provides spectacular views of the Mt. Tom Range to the east. While there are wonderful aspects of the landscape, Stephen and Laura have identified several challenges that keep them from fully enjoying the space. Its lack of upkeep prior to their ownership was apparent: large thickets of bittersweet, multi-flora rose, and other undesired species had grown up into trees, over stone walls, and into garden beds along the foundation. They have been hard at work removing the invasive species and replanting these areas with native plant species which are beneficial for wildlife. Stephen has had a long career in conservation and it is important to him that they can steward the land to better provide habitat for wildlife in the area. In addition, Stephen and Laura would like more defined spaces for their use. Currently, steep and uneven terrain abut the house to the north and east, making movement around the house difficult. A deck extending off the north side of the house is an excellent place for rest and relaxation, but isn't large enough to host more than a few guests.
Project Goals Support Wildlife • Integrate diverse forms of habitat into the landscape for various species of wildlife • Make recommendations to remove dense patches of invasive plant species • Establish more native vegetation Create Outdoor Connections • Create a new outdoor dining space able to accommodate at least 8 guests and with access to the house and landscape • Enhance long views out to mountains and buffer views of neighbors to the east • Create easier access around the house Improve Resiliency • Assess areas for potential to site solar panels • Identify suitable areas for growing vegetables
Laura and Stephen have been hard at work since moving in to make this a place of their own. As they continue this process, they would like a landscape design that guides them in creating functional and livable spaces to accommodate their needs, all while contributing to the welfare of the beautiful plant communities which surround their home.
1/2 mile
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1,000 feet
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M t T om
Designed By: JACK ROSENWINKEL Fall 2021
PROJECT OVERVIEW
88 Village Hill Rd. Northampton, MA 01060 413-369-4044 www.csld.edu
INTRODUCTION
C onnecticut R iver
150 feet
Neighborhood Character
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The property is in Southampton, Massachusetts, located on the outskirts of the Connecticut River Valley. Laura and Stephen enjoy the short drive to many of the larger towns in the valley while still living in a more rural area. Their home is on the initial rise out of the Connecticut River Valley, providing them views all the way to Mount Tom in the distance. The property is on a street dotted with other large residential lots. A tract of woodlands across the street to the south is part of agricultural preservation land and contributes to a sense of privacy on the lot. However, there are also two neighbors to the east whose homes are very visible from theirs. This east side of the house feels much more exposed than other areas of the property. The front of the home faces a shady and open space dotted with trees. To the right of the house one can see the distant hills on the horizon. N eighbor
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Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.
20 WOLCOTT RD. SOUTHAMPTON MA
introduction
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a landscape design for the johnson residence
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