![This modern courtyard has Basalt-clad retaining walls that hold back the hillside and frame the courtyard, while the limestone hearth anchors the garden, and a panel of blackened steel creates a backdrop for a built-in barbeque. #LandscapeDesign #Landscaping #Courtyard #RetainingWalls #OutdoorFireplace](https://www.contemporist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/modern-landscaping-outdoor-fireplace-lighting-170620-1128-01.jpg)
Landscape architecture firm Surfacedesign has designed this courtyard for a house in San Francisco, that was designed by John Maniscalco Architecture.
The space, which was the solution for a steep, wooded backyard, was inspired by the client’s interest in rock-climbing and sculpture.
Basalt-clad retaining walls hold back the hillside and frame the courtyard, while the limestone hearth anchors the garden, and a panel of blackened steel creates a backdrop for a built-in barbeque.
![This modern courtyard has Basalt-clad retaining walls that hold back the hillside and frame the courtyard, while the limestone hearth anchors the garden, and a panel of blackened steel creates a backdrop for a built-in barbeque. #LandscapeDesign #Landscaping #Courtyard #RetainingWalls #OutdoorFireplace](https://www.contemporist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/modern-landscaping-outdoor-fireplace-lighting-170620-1128-02.jpg)
Notches on the face of the feature create channels of light that are punctuated by stone accents, creating a sculptural lantern-like light element at night. The stone accents also function as a climbing wall, providing informal play space for the family’s children.
![Notches on the face of an outdoor feature wall create channels of light that are punctuated by stone accents, creating a sculptural lantern-like light feature at night. #OutdoorLighting #LandscapeDesign #Landscaping](https://www.contemporist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/modern-landscaping-outdoor-fireplace-lighting-170620-1128-03.jpg)