The Shire Masterplan

A Holistic Site Strategy

BDL developed a masterplan for a newly built residence located on 7 acres of partially wooded land in Clarkson, NY. The masterplan sets up a holistic vision for the property and establishes a phased installation plan for the next several years. The landscape design builds off of historic, cultural and aesthetic precedents that occur throughout rural western New York. A hedgerow of maples lining the road, fieldstone walls flanking the driveway and a grove of white blooming serviceberry trees all nod to the agrarian landscape of the region. Within the property, the masterplan creates a new organization for the landscape that encourages a better connection between the residents and their natural surroundings. BDL has proposed a variety of landscape spaces such as a native meadow with mown pathways, an intimate patio garden overlooking the woods, as well as a native hedgerow that will provide privacy screening and critical habitat for native species.

Phase one of this project was built in 2020 and includes a new streetside planting of ‘Autumn Blaze’ maples, a grove of serviceberry trees, as well as invasive species management along the southern edge of the property. Phase two will occur in 2021 and will establish a native meadow, recycled Medina sandstone pathways and a patio overlooking the woodland. Phase three will establish a native scrubland and colorful perennial garden near the front entry.

Masterplan Completion: 2020