Oberfield’s Ultimate Backyard Challenge

A 2007 Chevy Silverado was the grand prize claimed by Wilson Landscape Associates, Columbus, Ohio, in the first-ever Ultimate Backyard Challenge sponsored

A 2007 Chevy Silverado was the grand prize claimed by Wilson Landscape Associates, Columbus, Ohio, in the first-ever Ultimate Backyard Challenge sponsored by Oberfield’s Inc. Participating in the competition were 11 landscape contractors paying an entry fee of $1,000 each, who completed work for central Ohio homeowners using Oberfield products. The Delaware, Ohio-based producer specializes in the fabrication of concrete pavers, retaining walls, and concrete countertops.

Designed for a Westerville homeowner, the winning project encompasses a water feature, outdoor grill area with a concrete countertop, multi-tiered paver patio, retaining walls, and landscaping with lighting elements. According to Cleveland Metro Parks’ John Cardwell, who served as one of three Ultimate Backyard Challenge judges, The project designed by Wilson Landscape Associates exhibits beautiful proportion among the patio spaces. The dining area adjacent to the home offers privacy, while remaining part of the main patio arena. And, the water feature is situated to resound throughout the space. This design is simple, neat and clean.

Competing installations were evaluated by three landscape-architect judges using a point system reflecting the projects’ use of space, creativity, workmanship, construction details, and overall impression. Challenge participants were required to adhere to particular criteria set forth by Oberfield’s, i.e., use of Oberfield pavers that must be cleaned or sealed; and, incorporation of an Oberfield’s Versa-Lok Retaining Wall product. Optional features included fire elements, landscape lighting, Edington Wall Stone, an Oberfield’s concrete countertop, and outdoor kitchen.

To the project receiving the most online votes through Oberfield’s website, a People’s Choice Award was granted to First Impressions Lawn & Landscape Co. of Sunbury. That installation, also in Sunbury, features an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, paver patio and retaining walls that serve as seat walls.