featured property Lincoln Estate

Set along the water in historic Lincoln, this classic Georgian-style home offered remarkable views and enduring character. Our task was to thoughtfully restore and reshape the surrounding landscape, addressing years of overgrowth while creating a more functional, cohesive connection between the home, the land, and the waterfront.

about this property

Lincoln, MA | Set along the water’s edge in historic Lincoln, this landscape was reimagined to strengthen the relationship between the home, the land, and the reservoir beyond. Years of overgrowth had obscured views and diminished the clarity of the property, so the design focused on restoring openness while respecting the site’s environmental sensitivity. Strict setback requirements informed a restrained approach rooted in native and adaptive plantings, allowing long water views to remain intact while reducing ecological impact. A regraded, permeable gravel driveway expanded guest parking and improved stormwater management by directing runoff into surrounding planting beds rather than toward the water.

Materials play a defining role throughout the landscape. Slippery, mismatched patio tile was replaced with weathered bluestone and reclaimed brick, creating safer and more cohesive outdoor living spaces with a timeless character. Those same materials continue through walkways, steps, and gathering areas, lending continuity and a sense of permanence across the site. Granite steps and natural stone walls help manage grade changes while guiding movement through the landscape in a way that feels composed and intuitive.

The planting design was developed to support the way the family uses the home, with an emphasis on spring bloom, fall color, and seasonal texture. Flowering shrubs, perennials, and structured greenery bring rhythm and visual interest without competing with the quiet beauty of the setting. A secluded garden nook introduces a playful space for children, while the larger patios and terraces create gracious places for conversation, entertaining, and everyday time outdoors. The result is a landscape that feels enduring and deeply connected to its surroundings, balancing classic materials, environmental care, and comfortable outdoor living in one cohesive composition.

see the transformation

transformations - before - newton front yard transformations  - after - newton front yard

award-winning design

landscape design award - Association of Professional Landscape Designers (apld) award winner
Residential Design
Association of Professional Landscape Designers

project details

Location: Lincoln, MA (01773)
Features: bluestone and reclaimed brick patios, gravel driveway, granite steps, natural stone walls, layered native planting
Project Type: waterfront estate landscape
Services: landscape design, construction, seasonal planting, maintenance
Landscape Design: a Blade of Grass

tour the property

a welcoming approach

Reclaimed brick and weathered bluestone shape the approach to the front of the home, creating a composed and welcoming arrival. Layered plantings soften the stonework and frame pathways and gathering areas, while subtle transitions between garden spaces give the landscape an established, timeless character that complements the architecture.

garden walk framed by stone and plantings

Granite steps and brick walkways guide movement through a richly layered garden, where flowering perennials and shrubs soften every edge. Natural stone walls and subtle lighting add structure and depth, while the planting design creates a calm, immersive experience. Together, these elements form a graceful transition between spaces that feels established, balanced, and inviting.

elevated stone patio

Brick and bluestone paving define this elevated patio, creating a relaxed outdoor living space framed by mature trees and layered gardens. Comfortable seating and classic planters add warmth and balance, while open views across the landscape lend a quiet sense of retreat. The result is a timeless setting designed for conversation, reflection, and everyday enjoyment.

stone driveway and landing

Natural stone walls, granite steps, and carefully detailed transitions define this driveway and garden approach. The stonework creates a strong sense of structure while guiding movement through layered plantings and gently changing elevations. Together, walls, steps, and paving establish a composed, timeless arrival sequence that feels integrated with the surrounding landscape rather than imposed upon it.

this property in the news

Lincoln Estate Wins APLD’s Gold Award for Residential Design | APLD

Lincoln Estate Wins APLD’s Gold Award for Residential Design | APLD

a Blade of Grass has been awarded APLD’s 2020 Gold Award for Residential Design for the design and installation of our “Lincoln Estate” property. The APLD International Landscape Design Awards Program honors excellence in landscape design. Projects in eight different categories are judged on the basis of difficulty, craftsmanship, attention to detail and execution. We are, obviously, immensely honored and proud of our amazing designers and our installation and maintenance crews. Check out the photo gallery and project description of this beautiful property.

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