Pisa Block Wall

This wall replaced an existing rockery and steps.

Pisa Wall

Installed to create more lawn space, this wall was also built in a wavy line and topped with a coping unit (cap) to add character and give a very finished look.

Terrace Manor Stone Wall

Two manor stone walls create a terrace to prevent erosion and give functionality.

Small Granite Wall

This wall is small and effective, while at the same time providing a natural look by using stone.

Split Level and Single Level Wall

This split level wall is part of a much larger project involving a patio with fire pit, landscaping and other aspects, but is a great example of terracing at different angles to provide functionality and interest.

Retaining Walls, Natural Stone and Concrete Block

Retaining walls can be constructed using either concrete segmented block, or by using natural stone. Both styles can be used for the same purpose to provide you with the look and function that you desire. They can be used to construct raised garden beds, patios and paths. They can be used to terrace sloped property or to create terraces on your property. Sunken patios are also able to be installed by using retaining walls.

Concrete block is available in a variety of styles and colors to appeal to your taste, and are not limited to straight lines and 90 degree corners, although in some cases that may be necessary

Stone is also available in many different colors and can be installed to have a smooth or rough face. However, the bigger the wall, the bigger the stone must be to retain functionality. There are also different shapes of stone that can be used to build. Flat/square and also round stone can be used to build the wall, and can also be mortared or dry stacked. Stone can also be used as a veneer on a concrete wall.

Stone walls tend to be more expensive due to the amount of extra labor of fitting stone together and the quantity of material needed to stay within standards and guidelines, whereas concrete block are all the same size and are made to fit together perfectly. Both types of walls still provide the same functionality regardless of what is used.

Most retaining walls can not be built over 3-4 feet high without involving an engineer to design the installation. If an engineer needs to be consulted, they will take soil samples and test density of the soil etc. Using the information gathered, they will provide a plan and instruction on how the installation should be done. This will incur extra expense and possibly limit the installation to a certain type of material and should be reviewed on a case by case basis.

Backyard Overhaul - Retaining Wall, Paver Patio & More

Published: April 16 2018


						


    
        
            
                            
                                            
                                                            
                        The original retaining walls were poorly installed. Dreamscapes rebuilt them and brought them up to grade so they wouldn't fail again.
                    
                
                            
                                            
                                                            
                        In addition to rebuilding the retaining walls, Dreamscapes rebuilt this staircase, winding it into the hillside.
                    
                
                            
                                            
                                                            
                        This beautiful, winding staircase was completely rebuilt as part of the restoration process.
                    
                
                            
                                            
                                                            
                        This paver landing matches the paver patio above. All of the paver stones were sealed to preserve their color and extend their life.
                    
                
                            
                                            
                                                            
                        Dreamscapes completely removed the original, poorly-instealled paver patio and replaced with this 600 sq. ft. sealed patio and fire pit.
                    
                
                            
                                            
                                                            
                        This project was a complete overhaul. Dreamscapes removed the paver patio, stairs and retaining wall and rebuilt it all from scratch.
                    
                
                    
    
    
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Manor Stone Retention

Published: April 27 2014

The completed manor stone retention wall. The natural slope of the stones works with gravity to hold the hill in place, stabilizing the landscape.

before construction of Manor Stone retaining wall

Prior to installation of the retaining wall, this graded area was held in place with stones and treated lumber. You can see the natural pressure of the landscape bowing out the wood. A manor stone wall will hold the ground in place and provide an attractive, finished look to the back of the home.

installing the drainage system for retaining wall

Here we've prepared the base with a drainage system to ensure the wall will last for many years to come.

installling compacted gravel base for stable retaining wall

After installing the drainage system, we prepare the base with 6" of compacted gravel. Manor stone can be used to build a walls up to 3' high. Higher walls are more complicated and require engineering and additional permits.

Split Level Retaining Wall

Published: April 27 2014

To complement the backyard features, we've created a matching softscape and retaining wall for the front yard, paying careful consideration to the original fir tree while adding complementary shrubbery and trees.

The finished backyard includes the split level retaining wall with stairs, low maintenance softscaping with mulch on top of weed fabric, and a lower lawn area.

The stairs on the lower lower level of this split retaining wall lead to a small landing area with a fire pit. This is a cozy gathering area to chat with friends while children play in on the lower lawn.

before installation of split-level retaining wall and lanscaping

The goal with this split level retaining wall project is to transform this unfinished lot into a useful living area, maintaining the natural slope of the hill in the backyard and adding softscaping to blend in with the native landscape.

Here we've prepared drainage and irrigation systems, arranged granite rocks on the rear hill, and prepared the yard for installation of the retaining wall.

Dreamscapes Landscaping & Design

Landscaping • Patios & Driveways • Retaining Walls • Water Features • Outdoor Lighting

Pisa Block Wall

Pisa Wall

Terrace Manor Stone Wall

Small Granite Wall

Split Level and Single Level Wall

Retaining Walls, Natural Stone and Concrete Block

Backyard Overhaul - Retaining Wall, Paver Patio & More

Manor Stone Retention

Split Level Retaining Wall

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