South Russell Estate

Some properties begin with a design. This one began with a collection of stories.

The owners’ extensive international travels provided an extraordinary collection of architectural artifacts, reclaimed materials, antiques, and found objects from around the world. Our challenge was to give those pieces a meaningful place within the landscape—allowing each to influence the design rather than simply becoming decoration.

A 100-year-old spigot became the inspiration for a custom fountain. A 150-year-old vertical sundial found its place above an outdoor fireplace and became a focal point of the space. A Buddha statue became the centerpiece of its own garden.

Reclaimed stone from former military barracks was repurposed to create the walls surrounding the pool, while reclaimed road pavers were incorporated into the heated guest parking area and detailed with granite cobblestone inlays. Handmade iron arches and traditional gas lanterns help define the entrance walk and establish the character of the property from the moment of arrival.

Throughout the project, old materials were given new purpose. Rather than attempting to make everything feel new, the landscape embraces age, patina, craftsmanship, and imperfection—creating spaces that feel as though they evolved over generations.

The result is a deeply personal landscape shaped by architecture, history, travel, and the people who call it home. It is a property that could not simply be recreated somewhere else because so much of its character comes directly from the lives and experiences of its owners.