Daniel Bosler Photography
Design ideas for an eclectic drought-tolerant front yard landscaping in Los Angeles.

This is an example of a mid-sized farmhouse full sun side yard landscaping in Philadelphia.

This landscape project seamlessly integrates two adjoining properties, creating a unified and vibrant outdoor space. The installation of a native meadow, a distinctive pond, and natural stone walls, along with the addition of stepping stones, spring-flowering trees, native plants, and bulbs, elevate the beauty of this land to new heights.

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Residential $30,000-$60,000 Award Level: Silver Project Description: Our company was contracted to do a master plan for the family who was in desperate need of a rear yard renovation. The existing lawn area remained saturated throughout most of the year and the runoff from the neighboring property ran across their back yard, down the side of their property and all the way to the sidewalk in front of their house. The water was so intense that it had begun to cut through the back yard and erode the soil across the sidewalk and into the nearby storm drain. By identifying these drainage problems and discussing solutions with the homeowner, we were able to design and create the aesthetically pleasing and sustainable solution of a rain garden. The goal was to slow down storm water runoff, and catch pollution and sediment by creating a rain garden that acts as a filter prior to entering the storm drain, while enhancing the aesthetics of the property. The rain garden created was a shallow depression, 12 - 16" deep that collects rainfall runoff from all downspouts of the home and water collected into perforated pipes underneath the lawn area. The perforated pipe begins at the highest elevation in the yard and ends in the rain garden, the new lowest elevation that has been excavated down to an 8" depth. The perforated pipe captures the runoff water and allows the water to seep slowly back into the ground as it runs across the property and into the garden. The garden was lined with a geotextile filter fabric to aide in removing contaminants from the water, prevent migration of the stone in to the soil, and minimalize maintenance. A large variety of plant material was chosen, focusing mainly on native wetland species for their tolerance of our local soil types, moisture conditions and the habitat they provide for wildlife. The garden was abundant with native wildlife and was a sustainable ecosystem for birds and butterflies upon completion of the project. After planting, we arranged decorative stone throughout the garden to slow the flow of water and help prevent erosion. The combination of vegetative and stone surfaces provides temporary storage for runoff before the water either evaporates or infiltrates the soil. The surrounding beds throughout the property were also all amended with compost and replanted with plants that work in harmony with the rain garden. The front, side, and rear yards are a beautiful display of colors that bloom throughout the seasons and the plants throughout the entire property provide food and shelter for native wildlife. The rear yard that was once a muddy play space for the kids is now a dry lawn space that can be utilized by the family and their neighbors. This multi­ functional garden has become the focal point of the residence. Photo Credit: Terren Landscapes

Pennsylvania Blue Flagstone patio; part of a larger installation (a lawn conversion) which also included drip irrigation, outdoor LED lighting, soil amendments and new plants.

Peter Amend

M J McCabe
Inspiration for a transitional landscaping in Bridgeport.

Peter Amend Photography
Arts and crafts exterior home photo in Los Angeles

Peter Amend Photography
Craftsman exterior home idea in Los Angeles

Peter Amend

This small back yard in Placerville, CA was covered with bark for years. The soil was hard and compacted, so we amended it with lots of organic compost and organic starter fertilizer. The old drainage was filled with mud and ineffective, so we created a dry creek bed which took advantage of the existing outlet to the street. California Native Plants were planted to create a drought tolerant, low maintenance garden which delighted the client.

A paver walkway was installed providing a welcoming entry for guests and added interest to the landscape. New beds with flowing, curvy lines were installed, amended with compost, and planted with small ornamental trees that will provide color and not out grow their space. Also included were evergreens for winter interest, perennials for color year after year, annuals for a punch of color, and ornamental grasses for texture creating a 4 season garden.

Nestled in an exclusive Scottsdale enclave, this garden amendment and redesign captures the charm of both the home and the homeowner. A garden of softness, texture, and ever-changing color was the understanding throughout the design process. Creating interest and establishing pattern were cornerstones in the linear spaces, curvilinear walkways and paths guide visitors through their outdoor living space. Establishing an enjoyable entertaining space and bringing the outdoors “in” were paramount when constructing this scaled botanical garden.

d. turchi
Inspiration for a modern home design remodel in Los Angeles

Pennsylvania Blue Flagstone patio; part of a larger installation (a lawn conversion) which also included drip irrigation, outdoor LED lighting, soil amendments and new plants.

Why Fall Soil Care Matters in Texas Garden soil supports much more than plant roots. Its structure affects how water moves through the garden, how well roots can develop, and how effectively plants access nutrients. Texas gardens also face some distinctive challenges. Heavy rain can wash across exposed soil, while periods of heat and dryness can cause moisture to disappear quickly. Soil that becomes compacted or depleted over time may also become harder to work and less supportive of healthy plant growth. Fall is an opportunity to assess those conditions while the garden is still fresh in your mind. Instead of waiting until spring to discover that a bed needs attention, gardeners can use the cooler months to prepare.

Nestled in an exclusive Scottsdale enclave, this garden amendment and redesign captures the charm of both the home and the homeowner. A garden of softness, texture, and ever-changing color was the understanding throughout the design process. Creating interest and establishing pattern were cornerstones in the linear spaces, curvilinear walkways and paths guide visitors through their outdoor living space. Establishing an enjoyable entertaining space and bringing the outdoors “in” were paramount when constructing this scaled botanical garden.

This small space overflows with classic, traditional features and functionality. Included in this back corner of this traditional Bloomfield Hills colonial, we amended a mudroom space to include first floor laundry, and a glamorous, updated powder room. We combined traditional features like marble black and white floors, wainscoting and botanical wallpaper with modern, slimline cabinetry and library lighting. So much attention to detail went into the design and execution of this small but mighty space and the result is a timeless success.

The level-eight infinity pool at The Archer is a defining architectural feature, designed to mirror the sweeping horseshoe geometry of the building’s façade. Delivered through a seamless Design and Construct (D&C) collaboration between Pace Development Group and Aloha Pools, the 30m x 5m fully tiled pool was built by specialist in-house crews to complement the development’s premium material palette and views across Flemington Racecourse. Behind its striking design is sophisticated engineering, including an amended overflow system to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency. The entire pool structure also floats on advanced sound isolation mounts, minimising noise transfer to the residences below. Fully compliant with Australian Standards, the result combines architectural impact, technical precision and exceptional amenity.