The Ugly Duckling: See How EarthWorks Turned an Unused Basketball Court into A Functional Outdoor Space

“There was once a mother duck who laid several eggs. After most were hatched, out popped a large, strange-looking head of a bird that didn’t look much like a duck. But, nonetheless, the mother duck promised herself that she would love all her children the same.”

If you have read the story of the ugly duckling, you already know how that story ended. If not, read more. It is not too far off from our latest project.

Cortland Lansbrook at Twin Creeks is a resort-style apartment community located in Allen, Texas. Conveniently located just minutes from top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and recreation options around the Metroplex, it also features luxury indoor and outdoor amenities, including granite countertops, hardwood floors, an outdoor kitchen and grills, a bark park, a resort-style pool, and more. The community team strives for excellence to create a hospitable environment beyond expectations.

The outdoor living allows residents to indulge in leisurely activities surrounded by comfort and high-end amenities.

Unfortunately, one amenity was considered the ugly duckling…the basketball court. The court looking worn and needed work done to make it a usable space. This was compounded by the fact that it was rarely used by residents and became wasted space. But as all fairy tales end in happiness, the Cortland Lansbrook team decided to turn this space into a beautiful swan, upgrading the area and turning it into an outdoor game and patio area, complete with barbecue grills and shaded tables.

“The challenge was to transform the outdoor space into a functional area where residents can gather year-round with friends and family, said Kevin Narveson, project lead, “We were fortunate to have Lansbrook as an engaged partner who helped us work through the process.” The EarthWorks team removed the worn fence surrounding the basketball court along with the hoops. The cement was then resurfaced and waterproofed. Built-in grills were constructed with stone on two corners of the new patio area and covered with custom wood pergolas for shade around the grilling area. The team also added a cement cornhole game and a ping-pong table. The finishing touches were completed with iron fencing and umbrella picnic tables.

The Lansbrook team was active throughout the design process, from initial drawings to material colors and game selections. As a result, the beautiful new outdoor space was completed on time before the prime barbeque season, where it is now a central gathering spot for residents and their families to enjoy this beautiful new space. No more ugly ducklings here.

Contact EarthWorks to learn more about how your unused outdoor space can be transformed into a beautiful, functional area that adds value to your residents and your property.