Village Stonesmith Gardens & Masonry

Our hundred-year-old retaining wall was deformed by the roots of a mature pine tree. In the process of removing the tree and roots, we reduced a large section of the wall, and the steps from our patio down to our driveway, to a pile of rubble. Patrick rebuilt the wall and the steps— and the results are stunning. Patrick opened up the space and created an intermediate level, used Goshen stone to create massive steps that sweep dramatically up to the patio, and built beautiful retaining walls that connect to the old stone walls without looking awkward. Patrick and his crew were efficient, well organized and personable. Patrick really listened to us: as the project took shape, we had lots of input into design decisions. What we thought we wanted changed dramatically in the course of just a few weeks, and we were comfortable with the changes at every step of the way. We look forward to working with Patrick again, and recommend him with the highest enthusiasm.

We could not be more pleased with the work done by Patrick and the Village Stonesmith crew. They installed a "sunken garden" which we will use as an outdoor living room. From the initial concept, to quotation, then site preparation and installation, every aspect of the job with handled with consummate care and professional courtesy and competency. We unreservedly recommend the Village Stonesmith, and we look forward to working with them again. (Will upload photos at a later date, as their work is covered in snow!)

I am a Vermont based garden designer. Last winter I designed a garden for clients in Melrose, MA. Given the many slopes on the property, the design called for extensive dry-laid stone retaining walls and steps. We hired Patrick McEneaney and his crew - that is, Village Stonesmith in Belmont, MA. Patrick, a bright, wholly personable dry stone waller and his crew worked for six months on this project. From day one they were punctual and professional. Patrick not only paid close attention to the plans but also added his own touches, adding immeasurably to the charm of the project. This is a man who knows stone, who knows how to make lasting steps, bluestone terraces, stepping stone walkways. He is a pro and a joy to have around. And the finished project feels so right.

We couldn't have hoped for a better person to execute our project. Patrick not only did a great job on a big project, he also worked seamlessly with other professionals involved (architect, contractor, various crews) to make sure the end product is great. This was a big project for us (building a lot of stone walls to terrace our yard, build and plant various garden areas, while building a new garage and related drive court/walkways). Not only is the final result beautiful, but it was also inspiring to watch the work being done. Patrick's crew all take pride in their work and as a team they go the extra mile to make sure every little detail is perfect and that the site is organized at the end of each day.

Masters in their respective areas, Patrick (a stone Jedi) and Erica (with zen plant omniscience) partnered with us incredibly well. Our garden and patio were reborn after decades of neglect. We went back and forth a few times, and with each iteration the plans improved to our liking, taylored to suit our structural and organic fancies. The craftsmanship was painstaking, including through some brittle and damp days. Terrific follow through. Thanks for creating a magical room in our backyard - we expect years of enjoyment, including around many fires and with fresh produce!

I would highly recommend Patrick / Village Stonesmith Garden and Masonry. He does excellent work and goes the extra mile to make sure the project is done right. He is easy to work with and very knowledgable. Any design adjustments, during the construction, were done quickly and professional.

We hired Village Stonesmith to take down a retaining wall, move a considerable amount of dirt that was full of very large rocks, then create a new retaining wall in a different location in order to expand our driveway. We were extremely pleased with the wall and how the job was done. Patrick identified problems with the layout of our yard (on a hill) and came up with solutions. His description of the work and the cost were very clear. He and his crew showed up as scheduled and were easy to have around outside. We're very near a school, and he was extremely good with the school kids attracted to his heavy machinery. The use of that machinery moving the very large rocks in our confined space was also very impressive. Most importantly, the wall is stunning. People walking on the street stopped us to compliment it for weeks. We could have had just a functional wall, which would have been fine, but we have a beautiful wall that uses most of those rocks he dug out of our yard. I never thought I would be so fond of a wall, but it's unique and personal as well as sturdy and functional.

Patrick & crew built us a beautiful Goshen stone walkway, gently curving to our front porch. The workmanship is outstanding and it appears the walkway will be stable and flat for many years. The stone is beautifully cut and pieced, and the overall effect is subtle and beautiful. We definitely think Village Stonesmith's work is a cut above. Recommended!

Patrick and his crew built a beautiful stone fire pit, patio terrace and retaining wall at my home. He is a great artisan with a strong design eye and was able to use lots of boulders and field stone that he found on-site in a way that made it look so natural. The craftsmanship of their work was amazing. I receive so many compliments on the project! He's a good collaborator and was willing to make changes on the fly when our design changed mid-project. He has a great disposition and was so easy to work with, brainstorm with and problem-solve with! His crew was efficient and professional and we enjoyed having them around each day. I would surely hire him again (and will be in the spring).

I asked Village Stonesmith to demolish two old driveway entrance walls and then rebuild them as mortared walls on a reinforced concrete foundation, and I also asked them to rebuild a dry-laid property boundary wall of about 120 ft. The estimates were professionally prepared and reasonable. Village Stonesmith began the project on time, as promised, right after the spring thaw, and worked diligently until its final completion, without taking any breaks. Two to three workmen showed up every day, and were always courteous and professional. They used appropriate equipment and procedures, and achieved excellent workmanship - the walls blend into the landscape very well and appear that they have been there for years. My property is much improved. I am very pleased with the final product, and know that these walls will outlast me. Dealing with Village Stonesmith was a pleasure from start to finish.

Working with Village Stonesmith Gardens & Masonry was an extremely positive experience from start to finish. Patrick and his crew worked meticulously to create a beautiful stone wall that perfectly complements our house. More than a functional retaining wall it is a work of art that we will appreciate for many years to come. -Nancy O.