New landscape plan on view at Otis House

Following recent restoration of the facade at Otis House, Historic New England staff began implementing a new landscape design on the front terrace.

Gregory Lombardi Design created the landscape plan. The geometric forms of the evergreen holly and the boxwood shrubs play off the forms of the windows, draw attention to the front door, and provide four-season interest. The flowering hydrangeas add the bonus of fragrant blooms.

The perennials and herbs in the garden were selected based on hardiness and seasonality, and with a nod to the medicinal history of the building (Mrs. Mott’s “Patent Champoo Baths” occupied the house in 1834). The garden incorporates healing plants such as allium, lamb’s ear, mint, salvia, and yarrow.

The project was funded in part by the Beacon Hill Garden Club and is part of Historic New England’s work to maintain this National Historic Landmark.

Plan your visit
Otis House is open for tours Wednesdays through Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with special evening hours on Wednesdays until 7:30 p.m. General admission is $10. Otis House is free for Historic New England members and Boston residents.