Before & After: Penny’s Personal Paradise

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Before & After

Gardening

Outdoor Space

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Name:Penny
Location:Williamsburg — Brooklyn, New York

One of the reasons we chose this condo when we moved from Manhattan, was the potential of the garden. We promised a garden to our dog Sasha and we delivered.

We inherited it as a pit of tenacious weeds, specifically Japanese Knotweed, that had to be dug out and removed by hand before any planting or sod laying. To cover a random sidewalk remnant, we had a beautiful planting box made from IPE, a Brazilian hard wood that is a highlight of the small space. The box was so big and sturdy that we were forced to bring it in through the bakery next door. In the last 3 seasons, we managed to transform it into our personal paradise. The highlight for me is the magnolia tree that blossoms in July with the most luxuriously fragrant flowers.

It’s amazing how addicted to plants I’ve become, always finding little corners to squeeze them into. The time we spend in the garden is vital decompression time where we forget for a moment that we’re surrounded by city.

My husband’s pet project? … Outdoor movies! — He devised a whole system with projector and outdoor screen. It feels just like a drive in movie. More reasons to stay out there as much as possible.

Thanks Penny!

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