We have been profiled in this months issue of Suburban Life Magazine on pages 86 of the September Issue! We offer some great tips about the fall landscape and planning your next project. Pick up a free copy or check it out here:

http://www.suburbanlifemagazine.com/

Martin Shaw, LLC
Fall, The Season of Change

Fall is a great time to begin a landscaping project. Summer schedules are difficult to co-ordinate, there always seems to be a party, vacation or event to plan around. Fall offers a more relaxed pace as routines return to normal and the temperatures cool.

The team at Martin Shaw, LLC Design & Construction specializes in outdoor living spaces for all seasons. Designer Sharon Shaw spends time with each client discussing their style, needs and wants for the landscape, while manager Barry Martin oversees installation and construction to assure that each project is of the highest quality craftsmanship.

There are many improvements that can be made to the landscape to enhance its fall and winter appeal. An outdoor kitchen offers accessories, counter space and storage that will allow for grilling three seasons of the year. During the cooler months an outdoor fireplace can warm a crisp evening on the patio also extending the months of use. To increase the safety and functionality of the landscape during the evenings, which arrive earlier this time of year, consider landscape lighting to illuminate pathways, entertainment areas and to beautifully high-light specimen plants.

If you are considering an especially large project, begin your planning now. According to Sharon Shaw, “Many homeowners underestimate the length of time required for the design, planning and permit approval.” She says that if you are hoping to have a project completed in time for a special event next year, allow plenty of time for this process. Sharon notes, “It can certainly help pass the cold winter months by focusing on a fun summer project!”

Cooler temperatures and the onset of dormancy make it easier to transplant, install and care for many plants. In the fall, they shift their focus from foliage production to root growth, resulting in less stress and quicker transplant recovery. Choose plants that will add multi-season interest to the landscape, such as those with colorful fall foliage, berries or interesting winter shape and texture. Water requirements are often less in autumn as well making a new landscape installation easier for many homeowners to care for.

Professional maintenance can freshen your landscape for fall and prepare it for the coming winter. Pruning, mulching and other protective measures will support the health of the landscape to assure that it matures as planned. Manager, Barry Martin says “The most successful landscape is one you don’t have to worry about.” He suggests that quality materials, proper construction methods and appropriate plant selection will create a landscape that functions well throughout the year. Barry especially enjoys working with natural stone and notes that it is extremely durable, “A well built patio is designed to endure years of use.”

A well designed landscape is sure to become a favorite destination for your family and guests. Martin Shaw, LLC Landscape Design & Construction can help you enjoy your homes landscape during all seasons. Their website, www.martinshawllc.com, features a large portfolio, helpful articles, links and information on how to begin planning your landscape project.

Martin Shaw LLC, Landscape Design and Construction
PO Box 18
Furlong, PA 18925
(215)-550-5730
and
PO Box 898
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
(610)-990-6610