A good garden keeps the critters out while allowing easy access when you want to go grab a few cherry tomatoes or head of lettuce. All of our gardens are fully enclosed with attractive fencing and have at least one gate for convenient entrance. Other great features include raised beds filled with nutrient rich organic soil, weed-controlled isles covered with quality pea gravel, and all-natural (untreated) lumber.

East Lakeshore

EcoRegions

Situated on the University Lakes in Baton Rouge, LA, these homeowners were initially looking for a fence to contain their two dogs. Several conceptual designs and revisions later, we arrived at the concept that was constructed. The homeowners have an 80+ year old Live Oak in the backyard that they wanted to be a feature of their new outdoor oasis. They also wanted a spa to be able to use year-round for themselves and family parties. With the focus being on creating a New Orleans-style courtyard and preserving the fantastic specimen Live Oak, a sideyard courtyard was born.

Summer Containers

KMS Gardens and Design

Photo of a mid-sized traditional full sun backyard landscaping in Chicago for summer.

Find the right local pro for your project

Find top design and renovation professionals on Houzz

Portfolio

Grand View Windows & Doors LLC

Inspiration for a mid-sized timeless backyard concrete paver patio container garden remodel in Oklahoma City with no cover

New Berlin Fireplace

LandCrafters, LLC

The gas fire pit casts a warm glow to the landscape as if it was always there. LED lighting as path lights and wall lights illuminate the paving, while a Pekin Lilac tree is illuminated by an uplight.

Tiered Retaining Walls

Topeka Landscape, Inc.

Tiered retaining walls constructed with 3-piece mosaic block.
This is an example of a large traditional front yard retaining wall landscape in Other.

Arcadia Spanish Colonial | Fountain Wall

Greey Pickett

The landscape of this home honors the formality of Spanish Colonial / Santa Barbara Style early homes in the Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix. By re-grading the lot and allowing for terraced opportunities, we featured a variety of hardscape stone, brick, and decorative tiles that reinforce the eclectic Spanish Colonial feel. Cantera and La Negra volcanic stone, brick, natural field stone, and handcrafted Spanish decorative tiles are used to establish interest throughout the property. A front courtyard patio includes a hand painted tile fountain and sitting area near the outdoor fire place. This patio features formal Boxwood hedges, Hibiscus, and a rose garden set in pea gravel. The living room of the home opens to an outdoor living area which is raised three feet above the pool. This allowed for opportunity to feature handcrafted Spanish tiles and raised planters. The side courtyard, with stepping stones and Dichondra grass, surrounds a focal Crape Myrtle tree. One focal point of the back patio is a 24-foot hand-hammered wrought iron trellis, anchored with a stone wall water feature. We added a pizza oven and barbecue, bistro lights, and hanging flower baskets to complete the intimate outdoor dining space. Project Details: Landscape Architect: Greey|Pickett Architect: Higgins Architects Landscape Contractor: Premier Environments Photography: Sam Rosenbaum

Traditional Outdoor Design Ideas

Even though outdoor spaces are often overlooked, yard renovations and redesigns frequently pack the biggest punch. Your traditional outdoor living area is your first chance to inspire and make an impression on neighbors and guests, so sprucing it up can give your blah house a much-needed boost. When browsing classic outdoor decorating ideas and remodel inspiration, keep in mind the following advice to make the most out your great outdoors: Because such dramatic changes can cost a pretty penny, it’s important to carefully consider all timeless outdoor ideas before delving in. Set your budget ahead of time, and work carefully with your designer to make sure you stick to it. Research materials and landscaping techniques that are appropriate for your location and style, and don't forget add the plan for the final touches, like outdoor decor and furniture, to complete the space.

What are my elegant outdoor design options?

When making changes to your traditional front yard or backyard, be sure to consider what makes sense for your home and the local weather. For those in dry desert climates, avoid water-thirsty grass and opt for less-thirsty alternatives, then invest in a pool that will keep you and the neighbors cool in the heat. For more mild climates, a pool may not be the most practical of outdoor ideas, but a hot tub or unique water feature could be just the right element for you. On top of thinking about climate, consider maintenance as well. If you have the time and energy to work outdoors every weekend, a flower or vegetable garden would be a worthy investment. If all that effort isn't in your future, consider a nice rock garden, pond or intricate hardscaping instead. Finally, think about what works for your family. Some plants and flowers are poisonous for pets, and kids should have plenty of space to run around and play with friends, whether it be grass or pavement. Ultimately, yards should act as classic outdoor rooms, so plan them that way.

How do I create an timeless outdoor room?

During the summer, your outdoor designs become key for entertaining and should flow like an extension of your indoor space. With a few key components, your patio, porch or deck can easily be turned into an entertainment haven; after all, when the weather is nice, most people don't want to be stuck indoors. To make your elegant outdoor living space really feel like part of the house, create an outdoor kitchen, complete a grill, prep station, countertop and mini fridge. To become the neighborhood party house, you should also invest in a fire pit and hot tub, which are both great outdoor ideas for those cooler nights. If expensive renovations are out of your reach, new outdoor furniture and accessories are great for a cheap yet effective end result. A typical concrete patio or front porch can get a major makeover by simply implementing a few easy traditional outdoor decorating ideas, such as new furniture cushions and string lighting, or some brightly colored pots and accent statues. Take a look at a variety of pictures and classic outdoor design ideas to draw inspiration for your own space.