LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton, Suffolk County exemplifies landscape design and living with art in all forms. Founded by Jack Lenor Larsen, its collections, gardens, sculpture and programs reflect world cultures and inspire a creative life. Emil Kreye & Son was asked to create a low “canyon” with rock ledges on either side of the path. Kreye canyon was created to transform a flat under-used section of the Longhouse garden into an intimate woodland experience.

Emil Kreye & Son first evaluated the existing site, pathways, trees, shrubs and root zones.  Their goal was to enhance the visitor’s experience by adding texture, depth and interest to the otherwise flat path.  At the same time, it was important that they preserve the established trees at the site.

A shallow canyon was designed that would guide visitors on their tour through LongHouse. The canyon was excavated just up to the tree roots to protect the existing trees. Soil was then added to the sides to create a degree of depth for the new canyon. Each individual rock ledge and rock outcropping was harvested from the company’s property in the mountains and reassembled on site. The final step was to cement the rock joints back together and plant the many small plants in the remaining cracks and pockets. The rock ridges of Kreye canyon provide a unique mountain like experience through which visitors can stroll, taking in the sights and sounds of beautiful Longhouse Reserve.

Visit Kreye Canyon on the LongHouse Reserve website. Thank you to LongHouse for some of the photos seen here.