Brookline Brownstone Landscape Design | a Blade of Grass - # featured property Brookline Brownstone This Brookline brownstone was reimagined as a garden-forward retreat, blending a classic English-inspired aesthetic with a series of thoughtfully defined outdoor spaces. While the planting takes center stage, the design’s true strength lies in how each area connects, creating a cohesive landscape that supports the way the homeowners live and gather outdoors. ## about this property Brookline, MA | Built in the early 1900s, this Brookline brownstone retains its historic charm and strong architectural foundation. When new homeowners took over the property, however, the surrounding landscape no longer supported the way they wanted to live outdoors. The narrow, underused yard lacked clear organization and offered little space for relaxing, playing, entertaining, or gardening, making the property feel more constrained than connected to the home itself. To solve this, a Blade of Grass thoughtfully reworked the site to make every part of the landscape more purposeful and livable. The design introduced a careful balance of function and beauty, carving out places to sit and unwind, open lawn for children at play, and gardens designed for hands-on enjoyment. Special attention was given to circulation so the landscape would feel cohesive, welcoming, and larger than its footprint might suggest. Stone borders, clipped hedges, trellises softened with climbing vines, and layered flowering plantings help guide movement through the property while creating a sense of enclosure that still feels light and inviting. Rather than treating the yard as one small, compromised space, the property was reshaped into a series of smaller garden rooms that feel intentional, inviting, and well suited to the scale of the home. These spaces now include a quiet patio, a parterre cutting garden, a checkerboard-patterned main entry, and an elongated lawn garden anchored by a whimsical pergola, all framed within an award-winning English-style garden. Together, these elements create a landscape that supports quiet retreat, family life, and seasonal enjoyment while giving the property a stronger sense of identity, structure, and everyday usability. ## see the transformation ![transformation_f_before_dsc_0180](/wp-content/uploads/transformation_f_before_DSC_0180-512x341.jpg)![transformation_f_after_dsc_0210_2](/wp-content/uploads/transformation_f_after_DSC_0210_2-512x341.jpg) ## award-winning design [![landscape design award - Association of Professional Landscape Designers (apld) award winner](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/award-apld-landscape-designer-04.png)](https://www.apld.org/landscape-design-awards) [Gold Award Winner | 2015](https://www.apld.org/landscape-design-awards) [](https://www.bostonmagazine.com/property/2020/11/24/best-of-boston-home-2021/) [Residential Design](https://abladeofgrass.com/services/landscape-design/) Association of Professional Landscape Designers ## project details Location: Brookline, MA (02445) Features: [checkerboard and parterre gardens](https://abladeofgrass.com/services/landscape-design/), [patio](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/patios-terraces/), [pergola](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/pergolas-pavilions/), English-style planting Project Type: urban garden retreat Services: [landscape design](https://abladeofgrass.com/services/landscape-design/), [construction](https://abladeofgrass.com/services/landscape-construction/), [seasonal planting](https://abladeofgrass.com/services/seasonal-planting/), [maintenance](https://abladeofgrass.com/services/landscape-maintenance/) Landscape Design: [a Blade of Grass](/team/) ## tour the property [![Brookline, MA - A mixed border of bulbs, perennials, and flowering and evergreen shrubs help to define an emerald green lawn.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-garden-backyard-lawn-1280x853.jpg) ](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-garden-backyard-lawn.jpg "Brookline, MA - A mixed border of bulbs, perennials, and flowering and evergreen shrubs help to define an emerald green lawn.") Brookline, MA - A mixed border of bulbs, perennials, and flowering and evergreen shrubs help to define an emerald green lawn. [![Brookline, MA - Beautiful shades of purple and pink provided by alium, nepeta, salvia, and landscape roses.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-garden-formal-1280x853.jpg) ](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-garden-formal.jpg "Brookline, MA - Beautiful shades of purple and pink provided by alium, nepeta, salvia, and landscape roses.") Brookline, MA - Beautiful shades of purple and pink provided by alium, nepeta, salvia, and landscape roses. [![Brookline, MA - Climbing rose adorning this trellis frames the view beyond.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-ma-trellis-view-gardens-1280x853.jpg) ](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-ma-trellis-view-gardens.jpg "Brookline, MA - Climbing rose adorning this trellis frames the view beyond.") Brookline, MA - Climbing rose adorning this trellis frames the view beyond. [![Brookline, MA - A custom trellis provides a focal point and pulls the eye along the entire garden.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-ma-trellis-seating-yard-1280x853.jpg) ](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-ma-trellis-seating-yard.jpg "Brookline, MA - A custom trellis provides a focal point and pulls the eye along the entire garden.") Brookline, MA - A custom trellis provides a focal point and pulls the eye along the entire garden. [![Brookline, MA - Summer in full swing provided by a blend of perennials, flowering trees and shrubs, and evergreen shrubs.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-ma-garden-stone-border-1280x853.jpg) ](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-ma-garden-stone-border.jpg "Brookline, MA - Summer in full swing provided by a blend of perennials, flowering trees and shrubs, and evergreen shrubs.") Brookline, MA - Summer in full swing provided by a blend of perennials, flowering trees and shrubs, and evergreen shrubs. ### a garden to be wandered The Brookline garden unfolds as a sequence of intimate outdoor spaces defined by stone borders, structured plantings, and a lush central lawn. Framed by flowering shrubs, clipped hedges, and trellises softened with climbing vines, the landscape invites slow movement and everyday use. Designed to feel enclosed yet welcoming, it offers a graceful balance of order and abundance, creating a timeless setting for quiet moments, family life, and seasonal enjoyment. [![Brookline, MA - Nepeta, Alium, and landscape roses provide an exploion of color in early summer.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-backyard-seating-country-garden-1280x1707.jpg) ](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-backyard-seating-country-garden.jpg "Brookline, MA - Nepeta, Alium, and landscape roses provide an exploion of color in early summer.") Brookline, MA - Nepeta, Alium, and landscape roses provide an exploion of color in early summer. [![Brookline, MA - A private retreat in the city.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-backyard-seating-patio-1280x853.jpg) ](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-backyard-seating-patio.jpg "Brookline, MA - A private retreat in the city.") Brookline, MA - A private retreat in the city. ### sun, shade, seclusion This inviting garden blends a relaxed seating patio with flowering borders and open lawn, creating a space that feels both intimate and effortless. Brightly planted beds soften the stone paving, while umbrellas and comfortable furnishings encourage unhurried afternoons outdoors. Framed by mature greenery, the setting offers a welcoming balance of color, shade, and structure, making it a natural place to gather, unwind, and enjoy the changing seasons. [![Brookline, MA - A checkerboard pattern in the lawn adds a unique interest to the garden.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-garden-checkerboard-lawn-1280x853.jpg) ](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-garden-checkerboard-lawn.jpg "Brookline, MA - A checkerboard pattern in the lawn adds a unique interest to the garden.") Brookline, MA - A checkerboard pattern in the lawn adds a unique interest to the garden. [![Brookline, MA - Climbing rose softens the stone facade of the residence and provides a pop of color.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-ma-driveway-view-1280x853.jpg) ](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-ma-driveway-view.jpg "Brookline, MA - Climbing rose softens the stone facade of the residence and provides a pop of color.") Brookline, MA - Climbing rose softens the stone facade of the residence and provides a pop of color. ### a playful twist This refined entry garden blends structure and softness, using a checkerboard lawn pattern and circular planting bed to create a sense of arrival that feels both classic and inviting. Framed by clipped evergreens, flowering borders, and warm stone details, the space guides movement toward the home while offering moments to pause and take in the setting. The result is an elegant front landscape that reflects the home’s historic character while adding charm, order, and visual interest at the threshold. ## this property in the news [![transformations feature](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/transformations-feature-700x394.jpg)](https://abladeofgrass.com/news/dramatic-landscaping-transformations-new-england-home/) #### [Dramatic Landscaping Transformations | New England Home](https://abladeofgrass.com/news/dramatic-landscaping-transformations-new-england-home/) Jim Douthit speaks with New England Home‘s Kaitlin Madden regarding the strategy and impact of a great property makeover. Examples of our projects in Brookline, Wellesley, Dover, Boston, and Weston are examined as Jim explains his perspective on “outdoor rooms.” As they say – seeing is believeing. Check out these amazing transformations and learn more […] [read more](https://abladeofgrass.com/news/dramatic-landscaping-transformations-new-england-home/) [![transformations - after - updated yard with plantings and gardens](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/transformation_f_after_DSC_0210_2-1024x576.jpg)](https://abladeofgrass.com/news/before-and-after-enchanting-english-garden/) #### [Before and After: Enchanting English Garden | Traditional Home](https://abladeofgrass.com/news/before-and-after-enchanting-english-garden/) Our Brookline Brownstone property gets the spotlight in this month’s Traditional Home. Walk through the iron gate to a Checkerboard Garden, where patterned pavers lead past a circular flower bed. View the pdf version here. [read more](https://abladeofgrass.com/news/before-and-after-enchanting-english-garden/) [![an urban garden in Brookline, Massachusetts](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/brookline-garden-formal-garden-design-1022x575.jpg)](https://abladeofgrass.com/news/an-urban-garden-in-massachusetts-old-house-online/) #### [An Urban Garden in Massachusetts | Old House Online](https://abladeofgrass.com/news/an-urban-garden-in-massachusetts-old-house-online/) Old House Online tells the story of how an avid gardener and a Blade of Grass reworked a streetside urban plot in Brookline to create private “rooms” along with lawns and perennial beds—while honoring the scale of the big old house. [read more](https://abladeofgrass.com/news/an-urban-garden-in-massachusetts-old-house-online/) ## explore our other featured properties [![Belmont, MA - Nestled into the garden, this table will become the household's prefered dining space.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/belmont-02478-patio-bluestone-dining-512x341.jpg) #### Belmont Carriage House ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/belmont-carriage-house/) [![Duxbury, MA - A single London Planetree accents this spectacular circular peastone drive with granite inlay and pairs classic New England architecture with precision stonework.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/duxbury-circular-driveway-masonry-512x341.jpg) #### Duxbury Seaside Estate ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/duxbury-seaside-estate/) [![Wellesley Hills, MA – The deciduous and evergreen trees in the foundation beds help soften the brick facade and tie it together with garden beds below.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/wellesley-hills-front-gravel-drive-entryway-512x341.jpg) #### Wellesley Hills Residence ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/wellesley-hills-residence/) [![Wellesley, MA - A natural stone fire feature anchors this lower terrace, where hydrangeas, layered perennials, and masonry walls shape a comfortable gathering space. photo credit: Michael J Lee](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/PROPERTY-Wellesley-Escape-fire-feature-stone-terrace-hydrangeas-01-512x341.jpg) #### Wellesley Four-Season Escape ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/wellesley-backyard-escape/) [![Weston, MA - Outdoor space designed for dining and gathering opens to an emerald green lawn bordered by lush planting beds.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/weston-ma-stone-patio-furniture-contemporary-designer-512x341.jpg) #### Weston Contemporary ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/weston-contemporary/) [![Wellesley, MA - A secluded patio framed by Corinthian granite walls. Wide granite steps lead the way to open lawn space.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/wooded-wellesley-terraces-stone-patio-steps-512x341.jpg) #### Wooded Wellesley Terraces ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/wooded-wellesley-terraces/) [![Lincoln, MA - Beds of evergreen shrubs provide year round interest while flowering shrubs such as Spirea give seasonal color.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/lincoln-estate-garden-512x341.jpg) #### Lincoln Estate ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/lincoln-estate/) [![Carlisle, MA - A strong lawn axis visually connects barn and farmhouse, unifying the estate through alignment and proportion. Photo: Michael J. Lee](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/CARLISLE-ESTATE-barn-farmhouse-lawn-axis-estate-01-512x341.jpg) #### Carlisle Country Estate ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/carlisle-country-estate/) [![Wellesley, MA - Lush evergreen and flowering shrub plantings soften this cozy fieldstone fireplace and built in grill.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/wellesley-backyard-grill-hardscape-fireplace-512x341.jpg) #### Wellesley Backyard Retreat ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/wellesley-backyard-retreat/) [![transformations - after - Duxbury Harborside Entertaining](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/transformation_v_after_20150918_8986-512x341.jpg) #### Harborside Entertaining ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/duxbury-harborside-entertaining/) [![Dover, MA - Outdoor living beautifully defined: plentiful dining space, fireside gathering, and a pool and play area are ready for your weekend.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/dover-massachusetts-stone-patio-backyard-512x341.jpg) #### Dover Outdoor Living ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/dover-outdoor-living/) [![Wayland, MA - The winding pea stone driveway greets guests. A wooden fence and gates allow the owner's to keep their dogs close.](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/wayland-entryway-drive-gravel-gate-512x341.jpg) #### Wayland Farmhouse ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/wayland-farmhouse/) [![Cambridge, MA - Large-format stone paving defines a flexible gathering space, with planting beds integrated to balance structure and softness throughout the patio. Photo credit: Dan Kaplan](https://abladeofgrass.com/wp-content/uploads/FEATURED-Cambridge-Compact-natural-stone-patio-dining-native-plantings-01-512x341.jpg) #### Compact in Cambridge ](https://abladeofgrass.com/portfolio/compact-cambridge/) ## ready to feature your property? [Contact us](https://abladeofgrass.com/contact/) today to discuss how our award-winning landscape designers, fine gardeners, installation, and maintenance teams can transform your property into a beautiful living space. [ Contact Us ](https://abladeofgrass.com/contact/)