The courtyard is just about done minus a mega planter for a palo verde tree. We originally intended to plant in-ground, but didn’t consider the fact we are at rock formation. We’re hoping to elevate the tree in a large raised planter.
Continue reading ‘courtyard details’
KRC delivered san diego grey dg. 4 yards of it. Turns out I only needed 1.5 yards for the courtyard. doh. Luckily we’re using this stuff in the backyard.
Here’s how the entrance is playing out. There are so many more steps before we’re able to do something like this. As they say, money you can’t see… waterproofing, footings (for the deck), etc etc. Still nice to dream!
I like this feel.
A major milestone is reached with the house. Time to focus on inside details. We’ll continue to work on the waterproofing issue that won’t go away and start the fence & gate in about 2 weeks when Matt is back from his NYC trip (the one in the pic is temporary).
We went for a stroll to grab some lunch and decided to cruise into Halcyon Tea. The shop is very well done! Friendly staff, good atmosphere, great prices for a tea connoisseur or average joe (me). We picked up a fresh ounce of organic chamomile (a wee bit under the weather) and a nice for life tea set. Check it out when you’re in South Park.
So far, so good. It’s been a good hour since the rain has stopped and water is seriously flowing… this is a good sign.
Added a french drain where we think it floods the most. This wall retains a nice little yard for us in addition to the runoff from 6+ neighboring houses up the hill. Water is trapped, rises or percolates thru the footing.. and bam! flooded basement. Here’s what we’ve done to combat the flooding:
1. Graded backyard to slope away from the house
2. Added side-yard drains
3. Added parapet & scuppers for roof runoff to side yard drains
4. Added french drains below west retaining wall
5. Add downspouts
6. Add french drains below foundation (not so easy)
7. Add ventilation
= Dry basement?!?
Managed to finish the stucco despite ongoing rain showers. Next: color
coat
