The Grove - Boulder Foraging
After overcoming several early challenges, the collaborative efforts of Peggy Van Yahres, Water Street Studio, Charlottesville Parks and Recreation, and our MH Preconstruction Team culminated in the successful completion of The Grove—a serene and evocative bluestone terrace located in the historic McIntire Park. This living monument honors the inspiring individuals who have shaped our community, nestled among towering trees in a space imbued with local history.
A key design element of the project involved repurposing approximately 20 large boulders sourced from the old Woolen Mills dam. The selection process was both meticulous and memorable—our team braved dense weeds, snakes, and unidentifiable insects to recover these natural artifacts. With careful coordination among trade partners and property owners, we executed the relocation of these boulders with minimal impact to the surrounding environment.
Each boulder was thoughtfully placed under the guidance of Water Street Studio’s architect to form an elliptical layout. While the specific orientation had a deeper architectural rationale (possibly known to Arthur), it contributes to the contemplative and harmonious character of the space.
The Grove now stands as more than a landscape feature—it is a community gathering place and a quiet monument, honoring the past while providing a meaningful space for reflection for generations to come.
