Vignette: French in origin and only dating back to the 17th century, vignette initially described the twining illustrations on the pages of books. It's literal definition is 'little vine'.

Today, it evokes fractionally different meanings to photographers, interior designers, artists and landscape architects.

For those practicing landscape architecture or design as we do, a vignette can easily be described as a scene within a scene or a garden within a garden.

And this expansive, yet charming landscape features no less than 9 distinct vignettes.

Three courtyards are connected with walkways constructed of reclaimed street pavers, all with natural limestone medallions. Two of the three boast custom fountains. Custom trellis work is integrated into 4 distinct spaces.

Private conversation space is available at the fireplace or tucked away in the back corner, secluded among a drift of aspens. A formal, oval lawn panel with a central birdbath sits quietly on one side of the home while the primary lawn creates 'the long view' and also separates the garden vignettes.

Containers with seasonal plantings are strategically positioned and a large masonry planter rests right outside one of the courtyards. And, of course, the pool with its accompanying pool house is a great destination on a hot Midwestern afternoon.

And while each vignette tells it's own story, they expertly and thematically connect from chapter to chapter to complete the narrative. "Little Vines", yes, but they are all part of a larger, inspiring vineyard.