I think it works fairly well for an inexpensive solution to a small yard. Everyone's budget is different.

I agree. Not everyone has an unlimited budget...Houzz showcase some amazing rooms with amazing tastes however; not everyone is in that place.
We were just discussing in the showroom where do people get amounts to, say do a kitchen. Sometimes we are so shocked with how low the amount is verses the wants and desires. When we ask where that amount came from.. we almost always hear..." They did a kitchen on a home show" for $3,00.00".
I can t get upset because it swings both ways.

Our job as industry people is to help our clients fit the budget to the job giving them the best materials possible.
Beside, I know a couple of designers who's back yards look as simple as this. cobblers' kids sort of thing..