The Creation of Sleepy Cat Farm
In 1994 I set out to create a garden which the house could be proud of and thus started a most interesting journey. Along the way I had the good fortune to work with many new people and reconnect with some old friends, all while creating this splendid backyard.
The Team
In 1998 I met Charles J. Stick, a Charlottesville based landscape architect, who became a good friend and a wonderful teacher. Most importantly, Charles taught me how to make a garden great.
Regarding structures, many have been added to the property through the years, designed by architect Charles Hilton and built by Robert Levine. Charles and Robert oversaw the construction of the barn, cottage, garden office, greenhouse and other follies that make up the landscape. An extraordinary mason, Mauro Fidaleo, was responsible for all the stonework on structures, follies and walls. Larry Labriola of Carmine Labriola Contracting Corporation applied his expertise to numerous installations and landscape maintenance throughout the property.
As the garden expanded, Alan Gorkin, the first serious horticulturist to join Sleepy Cat Farm.
Due to the dedicated efforts of all of these individuals, Sleepy Cat Farm continues to develop and improve, constantly evolving, growing and blossoming into something quite extraordinary.
Fred Landman, 2017