stockman-stoneworks

Gardening Gone Wrong: A Stockman Stoneworks Story

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:44:43 GMT

The first step to recovery is to admit you have a problem. And that's exactly what I had - a problem - a really big, overgrown problem!

In the beginning, I had dreams of creating this beautiful, winding garden space between the upper garage and the drive to the lower garage, that awkward space that's hard to mow, hard to landscape, and hard to imagine anything useful there. It was a very large space, so I had to fill it, right? Wrong! The more I tried to create, the less it looked like anything. So what I ended up with was a jungle. Even though it was full of beautiful plants and flowers that I really loved, I didn't really love the way it looked.

So I took that first step and admitted I had a problem. I couldn't manage the space the way I had dreamed. It had become a space that I dreaded rather than dreamed of. So, I sought the help of a professional - a professional landscaper that is.

Stockman Stoneworks took my wishes and put them into reality by creating a space that was beautiful, functional, and easy to maintain. What I now call the "Sunset Patio" is a place where I can come home and relax, watch the kids in the backyard, read the newspaper, and entertain friends. The sunset patio has a winding path paved with natural flagstone that leads to a freeform paver patio large enough for chairs and a fire pit. The patio area helps to reduce the steep grade, making the area functional and accessible.

The flagstone path continues from the patio downward connecting the upper driveway to the lower driveway. To satisfy my gardening desire, three distinct flowerbeds were created; large enough to make an impact, small enough to manage.

We were able to save a large Bald Cypress tree to provide some privacy and a row of spirea bushes along the retaining wall to provide a natural fence. And because I didn't have the heart to discard all the beautiful plants and flowers from the garden, I donated most of them to friends and family.

The sunset patio has become one of my favorite outdoor spaces - one that has fulfilled my dream of a beautiful, winding garden space. And one that only requires me to sit back and enjoy the way the outdoors were meant.

Make a Good First Impression With the Outside of Your Missouri Home

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 15:53:14 GMT

With all the home improvement and DIY shows these days, it's not uncommon to be dreaming of a project for your home. But with uncertain economic times, you may wonder what you can do to improve the value of your home. Furthermore, you wonder how to make it happen.

Well put down the remote and get off the couch because summer is FINALLY here, and it's time to get outside!

You've heard the common phrase, "first impressions are the most important." And the same is true for your home. Like the inside of your home, the outside is also a reflection of who you are. Today, homeowners are staying in their homes longer due to the slowdown in the real estate market. But, no need to fret; there's so much to enjoy and gain in your current home's value with simple improvements.

One of the easiest ways to gain real value in your home is to enhance your outdoor space. While not nearly as costly as adding square footage to your home, adding outdoor square footage is one way homeowners are adding value and gaining new spaces to enjoy.

As With Any Major Landscaping Project, Planning Is the Key to Success. Follow These Basic Steps to Help You:

#1: Function

What is the function or purpose of the project? What will you use this space for? Entertaining, cooking, relaxing, privacy, etc. Planning how you will use this space will help you determine what elements are needed to accomplish this goal. For example, if you want to entertain, the space will need to be large enough for guests, have ample seating, and be accessible.

#2: Size

How many people will this space need to accommodate?

#3: Features

What features do you want to incorporate? Grill, fireplace or pit, seating, water features, etc.

#4: Materials

What materials will you use to compliment your home? Concrete, pavers, etc. While concrete is often the least expensive, it also has maintenance issues such as cracking and staining. Pavers are growing rapidly in popularity because they are affordable, durable, versatile, attractive, low maintenance, and easy to install.

#5: Budget

How much do you have to spend? How much money is actually needed to do the project?

Trust a Professional Landscaper Like Stockman Stoneworks for the Job

One of the most important factors in adding an outdoor space is to consult with a professional even during the early stages of planning! You could risk the integrity of your entire project if it is not done correctly. Professionals with credentials will not only offer ideas and suggestions, but they can save you valuable time and money with the right information at the right time. Whether you plan to do the project yourself or hire it done, the right professional is key to your success.

So, for all you home improvement television addicts, get the biggest bang for your buck by adding curb appeal to your home. And with a little sweat equity, you could end up with 10 grand in your hand! Whether you have a desperate landscape or a bodacious backyard, follow these steps so your project doesn't become a renovation reality and you get over your head. In the end, you'll have the dream home you deserve!

Why Build on the Outside of Your Missouri Home With Stockman Stoneworks?

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 15:17:53 GMT

The Rising Trend of Designing an Outdoor Living Area

"Come over, we're outside." A phrase you are hearing more and more as people are turning to the outdoors for entertainment. Homeowners are now putting in more time and effort into their own backyards. Whether you desire a pool, patio, deck, retaining wall, pergola, outdoor fireplace, kitchen, or gardens, the sky is the limit. Planning is essential when transforming your backyard. Look at the whole area and your overall plan to make sure it flows and will cover all your needs and wants. Hire a professional to ensure you get what you want and the project is done properly.

Breaking down your plan into manageable areas will help spread the cost out and leaves you with the ability to make changes as needed. Don't be afraid to mix colors and textures. However, keep your design consistent with your home and other existing outdoor areas. You don't want your new area to look like it fell out of the sky. Stake out the area with a garden hose and try out your area with some chairs to make sure it's what you want.

Make a Memorable Outdoor Oasis With Stockman Stoneworks in Missouri Today

Whether you enjoy entertaining large groups or just need a place to relax and unwind with family and friends, start planning your space ahead of time. Clip photos of your favorite ideas to later develop into your plan. Outdoor living spaces must be functional, safe, and suit the needs of the people who use them. Once you personalize your outdoor living space, you will not only gain an additional pleasant living space, but you will also add value to your property.

It's easy to enhance your outdoor living space. There are so many options available today. Now it's more important than ever to enjoy your family and friends and to get back to the simple things in life. And what better way to spend that time than in your outdoor oasis?

From Paper to Wow: Designing a Landscape With Stockman Stoneworks

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 14:52:02 GMT

Scott and Cheri Willett purchased their home in Parkview Meadows over 10 years ago. Cheri’s project list is never done. “I’m a project addict so I always have ideas in my head,” said Cheri. From changing fixtures, to changing carpet to hardwood, to repainting a room every few months, to adding a man cave in the basement, to adding a “sunset patio” in the side yard, and finally, the most extensive project – was to create an outdoor entertaining oasis surrounding a 20x40 in ground saltwater pool.

Stockman Stoneworks Helps Design the Landscape With Clients in Missouri

One of the first steps in creating the massive project was to design it. For years, the Willetts had been dreaming of a pool so they had lots of ideas. Cheri had been clipping pictures and kept them in a file. With the help of Chad Stockman of Stockman Landscaping, they were able to work together to take those ideas and pictures and develop a plan. It didn’t take long for Cheri to convince her husband, Scott, to move forward with the project. As an avid outdoor grill master and someone who enjoys entertaining, the project quickly got his blessing.

The backyard palace started with many meetings between Willett and Stockman at the kitchen table and in the backyard mapping out all the details. The main objective was to create a pool and patio that didn’t look like it fell out of the sky with a few feet of concrete around it– it needed to look natural; like it belonged there. So using two iPads and paper and pencil, they poured over all the catalogs and clippings that Cheri had hoarded over the years to get some drawings on paper. Although the sketches were not to scale, the basic design was born.

Next, they took those rough sketches to the backyard. With string and orange spray paint, they began to map out the design to scale. Over the next few days, they tweaked the plans by “living” with the space as if it were already there. Were the steps in the right location? Was the space big enough to accommodate the seating areas? Did it look good from the deck? And the appropriate changes were made to get just the right design.

We Will Put Our All Into Every Landscape Project From Blueprint to Building. Start Yours With Us Today!

Building a project like this was much like building a house – many contractors were needed such as electrical, plumbing, excavation, construction, and landscaping. The Willetts chose Keith Hayes of Hayes Plumbing Inc. and Mike McDonald to install their pool because they had been referred by a friend and were pleased with the quality of workmanship and references. Coordinating with Stockman and Hayes, the team worked together step by step.

As with any project of this magnitude, it took several months to complete. “The most difficult part was waiting and living with the construction mess,” said the Willetts. But the pool was being used throughout the construction which made the Willetts and their children happy. A few changes were made along the way like adding a water feature after seeing it at the Home Show.

“My favorite space is the outdoor bed that Scott and a good friend built. I saw one on vacation in the Carribbean and wanted to have the feel of vacation in my own backyard. And, where it’s positioned is the best view of the entire patio,” said Cheri. Other family favorites are the diving board, the fire pit seating area, and the lounge chairs for sunbathing.

And how does Scott feel about the project now that it’s done? “I love that it turned out to be not just a pool patio but an outdoor living space that’s used nearly year-round. We’ve enjoyed many times with our friends and family making memories that will last a lifetime,” admits Scott. Cheri beams, “For me, it’s more than just a pool. It’s what makes going to work every day worth it. It’s a place that we can all come together to enjoy each other and life’s blessings. Although, construction can be a painful process, we’d do it over again! Our dreams have come true – it’s no longer on paper – it’s... Wow!"

Choosing the Right Angle for Your Outdoor Living Area

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 20:28:09 GMT

A Guide on Where to Build the Landscaping to Your Mid-Missouri Home

The family enjoys their meals together, gathered around the large table that easily seats eight, and often times more. Adjacent to the great room is the family room. It is mostly used by the kids and their friends. It boasts a large TV, computer work station, large comfy sofas and of course another fireplace. They love that their home truly reflects their family. It’s open and comfortable and looks clean and uncluttered. They have taken time to get to know their home, and they feel like they have struck the right balance for the way they live. They have taken what they love and made it personal....displaying it beautifully but also functionally. It’s perfectly homey.

With four kids, it was important for them to have four bedrooms and four bathrooms. The large master suite is spacious and features a fireplace and TV. The master bath features two separate vanities, one is a bit taller than the other and the custom cabinetry provides ample storage. Each of the children got to choose something special for their rooms when they built the house. Their oldest daughters room is purple and has a mod light fixture. Their next daughter wanted a chevron designed accent wall and a hanging chair. The boys share a room, and it’s all about toy storage in there.

An outdoor living space as big as the all outdoors

The style continues as they develop their outdoor living areas. The lay of the land dictates that a series of retaining walls will need to be installed to fully utilize the outdoors. Chad at Stockman Stoneworks came out and made recommendations on how to complete the large project in phases. The first phase included the 26 x 18 covered patio, which they use all the time. Then came the huge curved retaining walls that define the front facade and changed the front porch design. It runs the entire span of the home totaling 74 running feet and gives the family plenty of room to hang out and enjoy the natural setting any time of the year. Their final project will be a third level that will make room for a pool and more outdoor living space.

This family has their priorities all in place, and their home is a reflection of who they are. Simple pleasures... the right angle on life .

It's All About the Elements: How Materials Can Transform Your Landscape

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 20:00:15 GMT

A wooded setting, gently rolling hills, and mature trees set the stage for this dramatic outdoor transformation. Ross and Linda Schanzmeyer had always viewed their backyard as underwhelming, and they wanted to transform it into a place they would enjoy spending time. They wanted a tranquil, go-ahead-and-stay-awhile environment that could be enjoyed during large gatherings or when it’s just the two of them.

Instead of the entertaining space they desired, the expansive outdoor area was sadly underutilized. A worn out deck and a concrete slab left much to be desired. So they began by looking around at their neighbors outdoor improvement projects, found inspiration at the HBA Home Show and in Capital Lifestyles magazine. They decided they needed help with the landscape design, and they contacted Chad at Stockman Stoneworks.

The old wood deck? Gone. It was replaced with a large suspended concrete deck to provide covered parking. They enlisted Nathan Voss Construction to complete this phase of the project. Ross and Linda met with Nathan to make sure that the deck provided a seamless transition from the paver patio to the suspended concrete deck. He used a natural look stamped concrete with an exposed chiseled edge in a color that complemented the colors on the home’s brick facade and the colors of the columns that give another texture to the entire area.

Why are materials so important in a landscape?

Quality materials beautifully intersect the topography as the landscape design took shape. All new retaining walls were built. Chad punched up the design by mixing Maytrx L Tumbled Oak-Blend blocks with dark accent stripes to create the desired high-end look. “It really isn’t any harder to build a retaining wall with two tones of block. It’s a design element that requires an eye for details and advance planning. The result gives a higher end look,” says Chad Stockman. “When we plan a project, we look for opportunities to mix colors and sizes of our product to do something special for the homeowners.” These more complex designs take more time, but the completed project has a cohesive and polished look.

The centerpiece of the space is the large island and pergola. The pavers were laid in a random pattern to break up continuous joint lines. A beautiful charcoal boarder softens the edges and helps to invite you through the many areas of the space. No entertaining area is complete without a place to grill, so they found the perfect niche for his stainless steel grill. Stone columns make a great countertop for food prep and a durable surface for serving their guests. A curved staircase and walkways create meandering transitions between the hardscape and the beautiful wooded yard.

Stockman made dual duty of the retaining walls by integrating bench seating into the design plan. Very often the most popular and used area of these outdoor spaces is the gathering area. Seating walls and inset benches are a viable and stylish way to introduce permanent seating into modern outdoor living spaces, and the Schanzmeyer’s love that it is a no maintenance option. The Schanzmeyer’s backyard project was completed in about 14-months. They placed their trust in Stockman Stoneworks, Stockman Landscaping and Nathan Voss to create the backyard of their dreams. “We have loved everything that has happened in our yard. The completed project ticked all the boxes and all the planning paid off. Now we are looking forward to enjoying it,” said Ross.

Choose a Patio Made From Quality Materials With Stockman Stoneworks

The result of this backyard renovation is a stunning and calm landscape with something for everyone. “The intention was to create a sense of place that combines generous entertaining spaces with low maintenance materials to create a welcoming retreat. We applied our comprehensive knowledge as problems solvers, designers, builders and craftsmen.” -- Chad Stockman, Designer. What some people might see as deficits, a sloped and shady backyard, these homeowners have turned into assets. They love that their backyard features areas for play and relaxation for both adults and children to enjoy.

Going in Blind on a Landscaping Project With Stockman Stoneworks

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 18:48:46 GMT

Stockman Stoneworks Guides Their Clients Through Every Step of Building Their Landscape

Tucked away on a secluded road beyond the metal gates are the lots of “The Bluffs of Cedar Creek”. Down the windy and steep and sometimes dark terrain, there is the gorgeous home of Richard and Dana Foster. The Fosters decided to buy their home on the secluded bluffs in 2012. These lots provide peace and tranquility and a feeling of being so far away from the world that you almost feel alone. However, that peace and tranquility comes with a few inconveniences. The Fosters had to change vehicles to accommodate the road condition. In addition, extra steps had to be taken to get an internet connection. Deliveries can be a challenge as well. But now in their third year, they would not trade their home and its location for the world.

After they moved in and put their final touch on the inside of the home, they began to explore improving the outdoor areas. Getting grass to grow in the midst of the rock and thick trees presented a problem. So many loads of topsoil were brought in and grading of the landscape made way for sod placement. Luscious green grass added much needed color and appeal to the grounds. Then came the daunting task of formulating an outside plan that included lounging and entertaining areas. “To be honest, we never got to that step”, Richard said. “It became so overwhelming, and we had all of these ideas floating around and no time to execute them.” The Fosters enlisted the help of Chad Stockman, owner and operator of Stockman Landscaping. Chad showed them ideas from his custom catalog and shared a multitude of ideas. The Fosters worried about how to execute all of his ideas, and how they would get what they wanted within their budget. Stockman assured them that he would deliver their dreams within the budget that the Fosters set.

A short time later, Stockman’s crew began the project. The first few days the Fosters were second guessing about how things would come out. Was the color just right? Was it going to be the right size? They had trust in Chad and his crew that it would be perfect, and they wouldn’t leave until the project was finished with the quality standards they were promised. Each day they came home and were excited to see how much progress was made, and it was completed in about 13 days.

Mid-Missouri homeowners are always pleased with their patio after Stockman Stoneworks is finished

With their new outdoor space, the Fosters enjoy light entertaining on the patio, having used the space for their daughter’s graduation party, romantic date nights, football Friday nights, and just to hang out when the weather allows. Sitting outside in the peaceful, natural setting is the most relaxing place of the home.

The Fosters especially love the outdoor lights that were integrated into the design. They extend the amount of time that the space can be enjoyed and add a touch of romance when the sun goes down. In addition, the sitting walls are a great feature that provide additional seating for larger gatherings. Overall, the complete project is well designed and integrated into the landscape. It incorporates several desirable features that make this outdoor space a destination.

The Fosters agree that putting their trust in Chad to pick the colors and materials, and allowing him the creative freedom to design the project was the key to its success. While the Foster’s original plan was not the final product, their ideas merged with Chad’s and resulted in a plan that worked within their space and budget. Richard explains, “You are going in blind when you place your trust in someone to do a job from start to finish without being able to picture the final outcome upfront. But, when you put your confidence in a reputable contractor, it will lead to a successful outcome.” “People are so busy anymore trying to run their daily lives. It’s nice to go to work each day without having to worry about what’s going on at your house while you are not there. And it can be a challenge to find companies and contractors that fulfill their promises without going way over budget,” said Richard.

Stockman Stoneworks Builds More Than Patios: They Build Relationships With Their Satisfied Clients

In the future, the Fosters plan to expand their outdoor space by adding a swimming pool, an outdoor kitchen, landscaping steps and more entertaining space. When that time comes, they know they can trust Stockman Stoneworks and will be comfortable "going in blind". Trust the team to improve your landscape and call today!

How to Design a Fun & Functional Backyard With a Pool in Mid-Missouri

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 17:53:07 GMT

Design the Perfect Pool & Landscape With Stockman Stoneworks & Their Mid-Missouri Building Partners

Stockman Stoneworks and Vaughan Pools met with the homeowners on multiple occasions over several weeks to finalize the concept and design. The family’s list of needs was easy maintenance, and a natural oasis and living space the family would be able to use for years to come. Since the homeowners have younger children, their main goal was to make the backyard functional and fun! The creative design for the remodel was left to the collaborating companies to maximize the potential of the yard. The companies brought in the heavy equipment and completely tore out the old yard. Like most Central Missouri homes, it wasn’t level. This called for Stockman Stoneworks to create a level space by adding dirt and building 4 foot retaining walls topped with their pilaster rails system. With the level foundation, they set about their biggest challenge; creating the multiple living areas that the family wanted. The new design included areas for entertaining, dining, dancing, lounging, a deck to watch the kids swimming and a romantic privacy area. After the retaining walls were complete, Stockman Stoneworks installed the paver decking. Design details made a big impact on the project. Beautifully crafted extra wide curved stairways were created to easily access each living area. The scope of work, creative design and quality craftsmanship completely transformed the backyard. The only remaining original feature, the gazebo, was able to be restored and integrated into the project.

“Through extensive planning of the masses, tears that were shed during construction and many unexpected surprises, the family ended up extremely happy with the completed project and that makes it all worthwhile,” says DJ from Stockman Stoneworks.

The pool was designed to have the natural feel, requested by the family. Vaughan Pools suggested to build the pool at an angle to maximize the view from the interior of the home. The pool was designed with an 8–foot diving area, extra bench seating and a 10–inch sundeck to accommodate the children. To further achieve the natural look, the family requested a pebble screen aggregate plaster with an earth toned tile that bleeds into the pavers used by Stockman Stoneworks. The pool has many wonderful amenities that includes a robotic cleaner, LED lighting and a heating and cooling mechanism.

Rick Vaughan from Vaughan Pools said, “The greatest reward of this job was seeing the enjoyment of the family. I finally gave them their own resort in their backyard where they can vacation anytime!”

The final touches came from Boulder Creek Lawn & Landscape . Adding color and keeping privacy while allowing for low maintenance from the foliage was the couple’s main instructions to the company. The landscaping design was left completely in Boulder Creek Lawn & Landscape’s hands. Since there was already a large amount of stone used, they chose brown mulch to soften the hardscape in the multiple living areas. To tackle the privacy, Giant Green Arborvitae were used to create a privacy screen. Hydrangeas, Bloodwood Japanese Maple Trees and Tall Upright Evergreens will boost the color in the backyard as the seasons change. The foliage and planting design was chosen to be the best of formal design, but always have a sense of fun!

“The homeowners were wonderful to work with. They were a breath of fresh air. Hearing compliments and seeing the happiness the family exhibited was what made this job worth every minute,” says Sarah Spurgeon, Boulder Creek Lawn & Landscape.

Through the wonderful collaboration of three amazing companies, a family’s backyard resort became their reality. The project was more than the family had ever imagined it to be. They now enjoy spending most of their time in this beautifully remodeled backyard. “We couldn’t have asked for a better team to work with on our remodel. It is now our forever backyard,” said the homeowners. With the right team and imagination, the possibilities are endless for any backyard remodel!

How to Design Your Home’s Patio & Exterior Rooms in Phases

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 16:33:41 GMT

Building Your Home’s Patio & Outdoor Living Areas in Phases Can Help You Better Manage Costs

Extending your home’s square footage with outdoor rooms can result in hours of quality family time where you can relax and spend time together. In the case of these homeowners, Stockman Stonework’s design ideas were a perfect answer to taming the hillside and creating usable rooms that fit their home’s surroundings. The homeowners wanted to completely change the look of not only the backyard, but the front as well. This project was going to be a big job and cost control was very important to the homeowners. They decided to break the project down into phases. In 2013, they tackled the first phase in the backyard. The homeowners have children and to better serve the growing family, Stockman Stoneworks began by focusing on the existing pool area to build an outdoor retreat for the family. The homeowners wanted a place where they could relax yet still be able to keep an eye on the children playing in the pool. The perfect solution was achieved by adding stone steps with decorative rock on the side of the home to allow access from the front to the back of the home. They added a new fence and retaining wall to allow privacy and prevent water runoff from reaching the pool. The level patio looks beautiful at night with the installation of ambient lighting. The family’s backyard retreat was completed in 2013.

The family enjoyed their backyard, and in 2017 they were ready to begin phase two of their makeovers: the front of the home. Chad Stockman was ready to take on the challenging plan of this family’s makeover. The front yard had a tie wall that had to be removed. New soil was brought in to level out the area. Retaining walls with decorative rock were built to create a barrier against water damage. Large stone steps at the front of the home allowed for an elegant entrance to the home.

Next, pavers were added for the deck to create a beautifully natural look to the existing home. Pilasters were brou ght into the design to create stone fencing which pulled the design together. The final makeover resulted in beautiful seating areas which allow them to enjoy their wooded lot from different vantage points. Many of us in Mid-Missouri are experienced with the damage that water and erosion can do to property. These homeowners invested in a multi-phase plan where Stockman Stoneworks integrated a beautiful design into a permanent solution. They incorporated the new curbstone curb and gutter system to direct water to a new location with ease. This new system is very effective, decorative and doesn’t break the budget. The homeowners couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome of this multi-phase project. Their outdoor retreat is completed and has added value to their home while creating an area the family can grow with and enjoy.

Creating a Family Patio for All Ages

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 14:13:44 GMT

Stockman Stoneworks Helped This Family of Four Design a Stunning Outdoor Patio Space Everyone Can Enjoy!

Just your average side yard. Enjoying the outside on a 16'x16' screened-in porch. This was fine for a family of four. This family expanded when the kids moved back to town and now brought grandkids with them. When they decided to host family events they quickly realized they had outgrown their space. After calling a few contractors, they decided to enlist the help of Stockman Stoneworks. We worked together to design a tri-level patio.

The first was planned to access the screened-in deck. They wanted to keep the grilling close to the kitchen. On the second level they wanted enough space for up to 30 people for dining. On chilly nights a built-in bench and fire pit area adds warmth. The third level was added on just for the kids enjoyment. It's large enough to hold an elaborate playground structure and toys. It is enclosed by a custom Pilaster fence so the kids or dogs don't sneak away. The customer has added over 3,000 square feet of usable outdoor space. They can surely entertain in-style now on their patio, or should we call it a "Partio"?