hardscaping

sometimes in urban outdoor spaces, the hardscaping takes priority...and it's usually done because of economic practicality
and upkeep rather than aesthetics. For many residential spaces with
backyards in the city people are stuck with concrete or hasty tile
paths, but this brownstone garden on the upper east side has some
really amazing work. The circular steps are concrete leading up to an
elevated blue stone tile circle for the main patio. I think this work
was done about 20 years ago and the concrete steps have weathered
really nicely, and could pass for some material on the steps of some government building in India...or some giant coins falling in place....or something. It feels nice and the concrete and bluestone mixed with the brick facing on the back of the house work really well together.