One of the small joys of design-build is the freedom to create and and build with more freedom and control. Here is a feature of the home that was added, a curved patio with a curving landscape stairway descending around it. Rather than a series of technical drawings, survey layouts, and engineering coordination, I created a three-dimensional rendering for approval, then a sketch of elevations and dimensions. Working on-site with a trusted excavation contractor (thanks, Russ, of Universal Excavation!) to cut this into a nearly solid rock embankment, I used a dimensional sketch, a laser transit, and my favorite technical tool, a can of spray paint, as the excavation progressed. A thank you to Arnie and Arlen of Groffdale Concrete for their attention to detail.