Mardi Gras in New Orleans is all about letting loose and celebrating a good time with friends and family. During carnival season, everyone becomes family! One of the families well known here in the City is the Randazzo’s – they are known for their world-famous king cakes. Their family recipe has been a New Orleans Mardi Gras tradition for decades. Exterior Designs wouldn’t be a true New Orleans designer without having a hand in a local legend’s landscape. We renovated the Randazzo Bakery store front in Metairie, LA by creating a Mardi Gras theme that continues year round. By selecting annuals that bloom in purple and gold, Mardi Gras colors are repeated throughout the landscape. We wanted to protect customers on those rainy days our city is known for, so we included a colorful awning that runs the length of the…
Exterior Design’s Beverly Katz used form and function to define areas of this commercial landscape. Separate conversation areas allow the students to gather and enjoy the outdoors, while providing them comfortable seating. The gardens throughout the landscape are defined by raised brick. Adding a raised edge is a sure way to keep pedestrians from unintentionally walking through the garden. Beverly also included an interactive play area with a life-size chess board. Large trees provide shade for the middle school students as they enjoy their outdoor time. Although the original intent for the space was primarily for student use, the St. George’s faculty finds themselves using the outdoor room more than expected. The beautiful garden has become the perfect spot for hosting meetings, lunches and parent/teacher conferences. As the landscape matures, the foliage will fill out and provide the perfect backdrop to this outdoor…