For Nick Adams of Mademan Design, the modern Richmond Heights residence he built was a turning point. Twice he’d tried to build in the suburbs and encountered neighborhood opposition, but the requirements for building in Richmond Heights appeared to leave room for discussion. To forestall early opposition, Adams called for brick on three sides to help the house blend in with the others. He sited it farther back from the street and looked at the city’s code, studied the streetscape, and figured out potential hurdles. Then, the owners got 10 out of 11 future neighbors to sign a petition of support. The architectural review board voted 6–1 to approve.
Ask Veronica: What do the pros wish you’d stop doing in your garden?
Four local garden experts share the habits they wish homeowners would break.
