STRAW HOUSE
Leyden, Massachusetts
This striking hilltop site was left a barren wasteland after being ravaged by construction for nearly two years. The soil was dead and compacted, allowing only brambles and crabgrass to grow. We had the opportunity to rewild this 3 acre area with nearly 12,000 native perennials and heirloom fruit trees. In summer the entire space is awash in gold, red, blue, and purple. Later, in autumn, the palette drifts into sepia and rust tones with dark seedheads for contrast. After three years of careful maintenance, this meadow garden is finally self-sustaining and home to thousands of pollinators, insects, birds, and wildlife.