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 longevity, ornamentation, and beauty. It seamlessly blends and enhances almost any landscape, adding structure and a timeless “old world charm”. 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 is best suited depends on the type of project, architecture of the home or building, the surroundings, as well as your personal preferences and budget. With sustainability becoming an ever increasing focus, the most local stone may be chosen, if the correct fit.
At Mount Hood Gardens, our own stonemasons have constructed numerous stonework projects in the Mid-Columbia, among them extensive dry-stack and free-standing stone walls, flagstone patios, and stone steps. Please explore the photos below for examples of our work.
FUNCTION AND APPLICATION: Stone in the garden and 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 all cases, 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. Locally available stone is generally more economical and sustainable. Several types of basalt and flagstone are indigenous to the Mid-Columbia, along with different kinds of river rock and glacial boulders.
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS: 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 at all possible. 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. With tighter path and patio stone joints, polymeric sand can be used to fill the joints, allowing for a more flexible material than mortar. Stone used for walls or patios sets off and enhances any planting, being a delightful and versatile companion to a large variety of plants.
COST: 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.
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 water flow down the slope away from the home.
BEFORE PHOTOS
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AFTER PHOTO
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Owner’s Residence
Marion’s home has experienced a tremendous transformation since she first purchased it in 1990. See for yourself in the following images.
BEFORE PHOTO
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AFTER PHOTOS
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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. A fabulous view of Mount Hood can be enjoyed from here.
BEFORE PHOTO
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AFTER PHOTO
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Georgiana Smith Park
This public park is located in downtown Hood River, Oregon, and part of the County’s park system. It is flanked by Oak and State Streets, Hood River’s main downtown thoroughfares. For a detailed description and additional photos of Georgiana Smith Park, please visit Public Spaces.
Private Residences in Hood River
Over the years Mount Hood Gardens has constructed numerous rock walls all over Hood River. Following are examples of different stones used to construct sturdy dry stack and sitting walls.
BEFORE PHOTO
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AFTER PHOTOS
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