Case Study: Graham Landscape Architecture achieves a cohesive modernist, sustainable Piedmont Retreat with VectorWorks

How to Make History with Quick, Powerful Designs Using Marionette

Graham Landscape Architecture of Annapolis was engaged to master‑plan the 178‑acre Piedmont Retreat in Bluemont, VA — a country property with agricultural and Revolutionary history where the owners wanted a contemporary house, preserved mature oaks and sweeping views, and restorative stormwater and habitat strategies. The challenge was to sit and service a sculptural modern home without damaging trees or views, while integrating sustainable systems and reconnecting the site to its natural character.

GLA worked in close collaboration with the architects and owners to reposition the house, realign a permeable driveway, and layer formal gardens, native meadows, bioswales and a restored pond to capture and infiltrate runoff; planting design, stonework and sustainable infrastructure (geothermal, solar, passive cooling) completed the plan, developed with Vectorworks Landmark. The outcome is a seamless indoor–outdoor composition that protects key trees and views, restores ecological function, enhances the arrival sequence, and has earned regional ASLA awards and strong client satisfaction.

Principle Architecture

Daniel Irvine

Intern Architect