Being that this is a good topic (not really thread, but the topic has merit), I would like to talk about some issues and ideas. Anyone want to join in, feel free. It is not tied to the current bantering and I will ask to have my post moved to a new thread if that is more comfortable.
One thing to consider when cutting trees around ones home is that not all trees are a danger to a structure. Pines, well the roots spread out and not down, plus pines prefer and do much better when grouped together. They use each other to keep from breaking off in higher winds, so if you start taking down large established trees, you really need to remove most of them.
Hardwoods that are healthy, do not have a V 20' up the trunk will most likely never come crashing down. The root system on maples for example, penetrate down and out, creating a very stable base for a tree that can grow very large.
Alot of what we have around here is granite. Trees that grow over the top of and around large pieces of rock tend to be very unstable, no matter what the native species.
All to often when working with clients I hear them talk about wanting all the trees cleared out of the way, so that they can see the view of the Lake. It is typically at that point that we will discuss other alternatives to doing this. Some trees are completely in the way of things and those need to come out, others can be pruned to a high height to allow for the view and still keeping some shade and shadowing on the lot. Another thing that is more typical is to bring in trees that are 8-10 year growth, plant them in an area that allows for pleasing views and does not make the lot seem brand new.
Really who wants to sit on a deck that is constanted blasted by the sun.
It is all about planning ahead of time to construct a home that fits with the site you have. So many times we have folks walk in with a set of plans that they bought off the internet and take us to a lot that is a complete nightmare to try and fit the style of house on. These are the homes that in general look like they do not belong and give folks a bad taste about them. Some serious time and thought in the beginning can go a long way to creating a beautiful setting when complete. These things do not cost an arm and a leg either. Instead of setting you heart on a solid home design first, walk in with a few different choices of what you like and then adjust the one that works with the lot to fit your needs and desires.
It is all about planning, but in todays day and age, folks are in such a rush that they try to skip as many steps as possible to get to the end game. That typically results is homes that most folks do not care to look at.
Think about almost every home that really appeals to you around the lake, they all just seem like they belong and blend. Even Mark's monster SF house on GI has a pleasing fit to the landscape. Other than the size of the home, they all seem to have one thing in common, small scale exteriors and landscaping that tones them down even further.
That is the mark of a truely well developed piece of property.
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