Click on a photo for an enlarged view
The City of Madison reconstructed the 1800–2000 blocks of Jefferson street in order to replace aging utilities buried beneath the street. The original stone walk that bordered the street — intended to provide a dry and secure spot for people to walk on after exiting their vehicle — was partially buried and in disrepair. After meeting with the homeowner, I came up with a plan to reuse existing flagstone and incorporate exposed tree roots as part of the design element.
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Before Parkway Construction and After Road Construction
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Photo #1: After Construction
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Photo #2: After Construction
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Photo #3: After Construction
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Photo #4: After Construction
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Photo #5: After Construction
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Photo #6: After Construction
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Design Considerations
The homeowner wanted to create a curbside flagstone walkway using the salvaged flagstone. The intention was to create a retaining wall in front of and partially enclosing the tree where the tree and its roots helped define stone placement. The stepping stones leading from the curb to the sidewalk helps reinforce the feeling that the stone is embracing the tree. The retaining wall was created to allow for a low seating opportunity and to allow the roots to show through the stone (yellow arrows).
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Joe Sonza-Novera Landscapes 
Looks great Joe! Your sidewalk chalk designs could use some work, though…
I’m still getting in touch with my inner child. It’s a lengthly process.