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Sports blog: Warrior Nation

Staff Report


WILTON -- Hoffman Landscapes has won the 2009 Distinction Award by the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) in the 40th Annual Environmental Improvement Awards Program, it was announced this week.

It marks the seventh PLANET award for the Wilton-based, 20-year old landscape company, including Grand Awards in 2008, 2006 and 2002, as well as a Merit Award in 2001.

Hoffman's winning design plan for a Wilton residence focuses on linking together a new patio expansion with a kitchen, seating and dining area as one large outdoor space.

PLANET's awards program reflects the association's commitment to creating and preserving the natural beauty of the landscape, according to officials at the organization. The network represents approximately 3,500 green industry service providers nationwide.

"It is important and gratifying to discover how your peers feel about your work and to compare your efforts to other projects around the country," Mike Hoffman, president of Hoffman Landscapes, said."If you're fortunate enough to win, the award tells you and your customers that your work is among the best in the land. In addition, the honor is a morale booster for everyone involved and puts a real charge into the workplace."

Brian Cossari, the lead landscape architect on the project, was faced with solving several existing construction issues, including crushed footing drains causing flooding and erosion, faulty septic piping and a sloping grade.

After removing the existing patio, replacing drains and piping, and adding concrete caissons and new backfill material, Cossari designed a series of patio areas that were tiered and linked together by introducing plantings within the hardscapes, thus blending the transitions.

"Integrating all these separate elements into one cohesive plan turned this tiny patio into a beautiful outdoor area with plenty of room for relaxation and entertaining surrounded by a colorful landscape of native plantings," Cossari said.

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