AboutKathy Expertise I am able to answer exterior layout and design questions. I have a special talent for creating landscapes for children as well as entertaining. Going beyond the usual landscape design I can also suggest furniture and decor (lit candles, hanging pottery, etc) that will compliment any exterior design.
Color themes, geographical themes (japanese, tuscany, etc) and seasonal designs are also within my realm of expertise. A horticulturalist I am not, but, I can answer just about any question that might require a particular type of plant and whether it will work for you.
Experience Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science for SUNY-Environmental Science and Forestry in association with Syracuse University where I took 2 years of Landscape Architecture. During that time I worked for 2 separate landscaping businesses - not design, but, maintaining plant materials. I have nearly 10 years of design and graphic layout in the web design field. I worked for a corporate web design/services company. I am currently a consultant for residential landscape design here in Virginia Beach.
Organizations Norfolk Botanical Gardens
Education/Credentials Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science for SUNY-Environmental Science and Forestry in association with Syracuse University where I took 2 years of Landscape Architecture. Secondary education teacher certification. I taught high school earth science for 6 years.
Past/Present Clients All of my clients are local and residential.
Question I have a very dull concrete slab patio off my kitchen. I would like to fence around it with some type of fencing and landscape inside it. The reason for the fence is that I have a dog in the back yard and we cannot sit on the patio without him being there. I need to make this area a place to entertain or just relax with or without the dog.
Answer You could create a planting bed around your patio (without the plants at first).It doesn't really matter what shape - with curves or straight lines - as long as you have an opening for a gate. Once the bed is down, install your fence. I'm not sure how big your dog is, but, a cottage style fence would work. You could get this in wood (which is less expensive, but, more maintenance) or vinyl.
Does your dog jump up on people alot? A cheaper alternative would be obedience training. Installation of a planting bed is both costly and time consuming. Or, maybe both would work - a compromise for both you and your dog :D
