English Gardens & Landscaping

Three years ago my husband and I purchased a house in an idyllic, woodland location in Connecticut. It's a place on a river with water fowl, towering, trees, and a peaceful atmosphere. The house is "quirky" in character, the former studio of a stone sculptor. We fell in love with the "unexpected" qualities of the place and decided, as we started to make changes, that we would replace the patio, which leads to the front entrance of the house, with stone that reflected substance in material and in appearance. We spoke with several stone designers/masons about redoing our patio, but after hearing about "pavers" and other prepoured "stone" tiles, we didn't have the confidence that our ideas were appreciated or even "heard." Then we had the good fortune to be introduced to Andrew Pighills of English Gardens and Landscaping. Andrew looked at the location, listened, REALLY listened to what we were thinking,and came up with ideas that exceeded our dreams and expectations. He adapted instantly to the setting and appreciated our desire to enhance the natural feel of the area.. Andrew chose slabs of stone, fashioned them, and placed them like pieces of a puzzle to create a patio that looks as if it's been there for centuries! Then, much to our surprise, during the course of the job, Andrew uncovered a well near the edge of the patio that had been covered over, albeit crudely and unevenly! Andrew's response was, "Don't cover it, feature it." Brilliant! We now have a beautifully hand-built circular well wall on the patio which serves as a place for interesting potted plants as well as a seating option for guests. We could not be more pleased with Andrew's work. After the patio was completed, we then asked him to design and install another small patio and walled area on a remote part of the property as well as randomely placed stone steps leading down the riverbank to the water's edge. We are very pleased with the "understated" look of the finished work and are grateful that we had the opportunity to have Andrew Pighills of English Gardens and Landscaping make it happen. We have the highest regard for Andrew and recommend him without reservation.

The team completely converted my back and front yards from a dog haven to a beautiful country setting that resemble those seen in high-end home magazines. The team was on time - every time, respectful and hard working. You can tell they love what they do!