Stamford -- Rose Court

This garden of less than one-quarter acre has been under development since 1993. While previous landscaping at the front of the house had been limited to a lawn and two small trees, the current design incorporates two courtyards, one for vehicles and the second for more private use. This courtyard is entered through wrought iron gates leading into a space under a pergola on axis with the front entrance door. The pergola consists of fluted columns supporting a series of trellises intertwined with wisteria, clematis, ivy, and climbing roses. The pavement consists of brick partially covered by moss, giving a feeling of age. The pergola area overlooks a sunken courtyard surrounded by eight-foot-high stone walls and topped with lattice work. It is an outdoor living room, with a fountain, raised planting beds, and comfortable furniture. There is an abundance and a variety of plantings, the majority of which are roses. A raised terrace and second floor wrought iron balconies overlook the area. Brick is continued as a paving material. On the other side of the house a deck, seaside rock garden, and other plantings take advantage of waterside views.

Persons and firms associated with the garden include: Harvey Kaufman (architectural consultant (1993-1994); and Armand Benedek & Partners, Ltd. (landscape architects, 1999).