Ho-Ho-Kus is one of the smaller boroughs in northwest Bergen, between Ridgewood, Waldwick and Saddle River. It feels more like a village than a suburb: rolling streets, tall trees, a brook running through town, and houses that range from early twentieth century Colonials and stone cottages to larger homes on deep lots. The terrain is gently hilly rather than steep, and many yards have old stone walls along the edges.
Natural stone fits this town
On a property like this, a gray concrete walk can look out of place. Bluestone, fieldstone and stone veneer blend with the trees and the older facades. We build curved bluestone front walks, stacked stone entries and stone masonry details on steps, foundations and chimneys. When a house already has original stonework, we match the color and size of the stone and the width of the joints so the new piece looks like it was always there.
Old walls and sloped yards
Dry laid and mortared stone walls are common along Ho-Ho-Kus driveways and property lines. Frost and tree roots push them out of line over time, and mortar joints open up. We repoint sound walls, reset loose sections and rebuild failed ones on a new footing. Where a yard drops toward the street or the brook, we design retaining walls that hold the slope and give you usable flat space above.
A short planning list
- Trees first. Mature oaks and maples are part of the value of these lots. We route excavation around major roots.
- Stream setbacks. Lots near the brook can have extra rules about grading and fill. We find out before we draw a plan.
- Borough review. Walls, steps and new patios may need approval from the borough building department.
- Stone samples. Bluestone varies by batch. We bring pieces so you can see the color on site.
Backyard ideas that suit the setting
A bluestone patio with a stone fire pit works well under a tree canopy. So does a paver terrace broken up with stepping stones set in gravel, which also lets some rain soak in instead of running off.
Ho-Ho-Kus is part of our regular Bergen County service area, close to Waldwick and Ridgewood. Book a free estimate and we will walk the property with you.
