The original stone ruin of the milk/cow barn had deteriorated over time. We found a local mason that used 18th Century craft technique to restore the stone walls. We preserved the original integrity of the structure and utilized the space as an outdoor living area. Below is a 2002 picture and above is a similar view in May 2009.
The bottom right picture depicts the trench for the foundation of the fireplace. This shot offers an unobstructed view of the unfinished inside of the walled outdoor living space. The picture to the left shows the completed living space from behind the fireplace chimney. Above is another shot that gives the frontal shot of the seating area at the fireplace. Both finished pictures are from Summer 2007.
Below is a picture of the barn's stable area taken in Fall 2002. Above is the restored area in May 2009. We added a water feature and living area with a floor of tumbled paving stone. We also incorporated an outdoor fireplace which will be highlighted in the next post.
Barn foundation.
Pool shell.
A Heron adds to the scenery along the canal.
It wouldn't be Summer without Elephant Ears.
Bubbling fountains add ambiance in the Summer Barn.
Good sniffing.
If those old walls could talk what would they say?
These are a wonderful backdrop of foliage. A big plus here, the deer won't touch them as they are quite bitter and a throat irritant.
It was an amazing growth season for the "Elephant Ear" plants [Caladium]. Many grew to over six feet tall and we even had some blossoms which is most unusual in this climate. Fall is when they are most prolific. Late Fall is also the time to cut down the plants and dig up the tuberous bulbs for winter storage in the cool cellar. It's tough to do because they are so beautiful, yet easier than waiting until the first freeze. The tactile sensation is like a rotten banana after freezing. We prefer to do the job while they are still firm. A word of caution to fellow gardeners, the clear watery liquid exuded from the cuttings will stain clothing.
