Question
Hi Sean,

First thanks for taking time to look at this!

Second, this fall I removed a very large overgrown tree next to our south facing exterior wall.  The ground slopes down along the wall starting with roughly 1 foot exposed leading to nearly 5 feet toward the front of the house.  There is a decorative retaining brick wall at the bottom.  That said, I was hoping to plant a new perrenial bed this spring.  My plan was to incorporate three stone (drystack)walls leading out from the wall of the house in a curve...the first one almost at the top, the second one about 1/3 down and the last one starting behind the existing brick retaining wall.  

Sooo, what do you suggest for the exposed wall...I've thought of painting it, or using taller plants etc.  Any ideas?

Thanks again!

Doug

Answer
There are a number of things you can do from masonry finish (like stucco), stone, wood veneer, to paints and plants. Without seeing your home first hand or knowing your budget it is hard for me to give you a definitive suggestion. What I can say is to try and avoid too many finishes...ie, brick, stone, paint, etc all in the same viewing area. Look at your architecture for clues as to what might be best. If your house has lots of brick then consider using more brick. If you like stone then be sure it compliments the brick and the local vernacular materials. In other words don't use white marble if most rock in the area is Tennessee Fieldstone. As for painting the wall, thats up to you but paint often looks weak or inexpensive next to masonry or stone. Plants area always an inexpensive way to cover and typically will fit with any architecture. I hope this helps you make a decisions.

Best of Luck
Sean J Murphy, LA,ISA, LEED AP
Please check out my blogs and articles on landscape topics like this on my websites.
http://www.seanjmurphy.com
http://amenityarchitects.com