Historic New Jersey Estate Gets a Makeover

This beautiful and historic home located is located in Short Hills NJ. As a historic property (the garden was featured in early Smithsonian Garden Photo Collections) – care had to be exercised to create spaces that were in alignment with the original garden terraces and presentation of the property. Much liberty was taken in the ‘80s that went a completely different direction, so BYLA was chartered to bring this back to life for a family that wanted to respect the history but also to create something new. The result – if you squint a bit it could very well be the original garden. Walls and terraces were updated, the entry completely redone removing an asphalt drive that was paved to the front door…. For anyone who has worked on butchered older homes you will know how much these treasures were ignored - but now, at least here, given some respect. Other key elements introduced were a row of pleached lindens, species hornbeam and the use of reclaimed granite and bluestone.