This Eclectic Contemporary House keeps a low profile amidst a bold and lively landscape. The home is made up of simple forms stitched together under shallow gable roofs that spread out, rather than stack up. Instead of trying to blend in like camouflage, or to assert itself with stark contrast, This ecelctic house uses bright materials and cheerful colors to compliment the sunny mood of its natural surroundings. Photos by: David Patterson Photography

We call these gardens "living landscapes" because the native plants they contain seed off and change locations from year to year in a dynamic, dramatic show. The gardener becomes audience, director, and dramaturge--all in one--rather than one who tightly controls the results. (What is a dramaturge, one might ask if their friends are not in the theater?) Oxford languages explains: "1. a dramatist. 2. a literary editor on the staff of a theater who consults with authors and edits texts." In living landscapes, the native plants become a sort of text which the gardener edits in order to shape the unfolding drama for the current and next season. The gardener chooses where to pull back overly assertive plants, when to nudge forward the under-confident actor waiting to shine, when to let the mystery unfold and surprise. It is not laissez-faire or "what will be will be"--rather, it is an ongoing movement rooted in observation and reflection. This is the living landscape we strive to design and build at The Natural Garden.

After installation of the new custom valance, the Victorian Living Room feels more balanced, cozier, and more updated. A large custom valance is an updated variation on the old swag valances, with few folds, a center pleat, and cascade sides, over the Hunter Douglas Silhouettes at the window. The smaller scale pattern defers to the floral of the sofa, but is interesting when you can consider it. A contrast blue lining, and the blush pink patterned fabric, are strong enough to work with more assertive aspects of the room. Details, such as the buttons at the top of the pleats, the contrast cording at the top of the valance, and the crystal bead trim, are perfect for a traditional client, who is nourished by the complexity of detail in a space..

Trendy single-wall light wood floor open concept kitchen photo with flat-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, multicolored backsplash, mosaic tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and an undermount sink

We call these gardens "living landscapes" because the native plants they contain seed off and change locations from year to year in a dynamic, dramatic show. The gardener becomes audience, director, and dramaturge--all in one--rather than one who tightly controls the results. (What is a dramaturge, one might ask if their friends are not in the theater?) Oxford languages explains: "1. a dramatist. 2. a literary editor on the staff of a theater who consults with authors and edits texts." In living landscapes, the native plants become a sort of text which the gardener edits in order to shape the unfolding drama for the current and next season. The gardener chooses where to pull back overly assertive plants, when to nudge forward the under-confident actor waiting to shine, when to let the mystery unfold and surprise. It is not laissez-faire or "what will be will be"--rather, it is an ongoing movement rooted in observation and reflection. This is the living landscape we strive to design and build at The Natural Garden.

We call these gardens "living landscapes" because the native plants they contain seed off and change locations from year to year in a dynamic, dramatic show. The gardener becomes audience, director, and dramaturge--all in one--rather than one who tightly controls the results. (What is a dramaturge, one might ask if their friends are not in the theater?) Oxford languages explains: "1. a dramatist. 2. a literary editor on the staff of a theater who consults with authors and edits texts." In living landscapes, the native plants become a sort of text which the gardener edits in order to shape the unfolding drama for the current and next season. The gardener chooses where to pull back overly assertive plants, when to nudge forward the under-confident actor waiting to shine, when to let the mystery unfold and surprise. It is not laissez-faire or "what will be will be"--rather, it is an ongoing movement rooted in observation and reflection. This is the living landscape we strive to design and build at The Natural Garden.

We call these gardens "living landscapes" because the native plants they contain seed off and change locations from year to year in a dynamic, dramatic show. The gardener becomes audience, director, and dramaturge--all in one--rather than one who tightly controls the results. (What is a dramaturge, one might ask if their friends are not in the theater?) Oxford languages explains: "1. a dramatist. 2. a literary editor on the staff of a theater who consults with authors and edits texts." In living landscapes, the native plants become a sort of text which the gardener edits in order to shape the unfolding drama for the current and next season. The gardener chooses where to pull back overly assertive plants, when to nudge forward the under-confident actor waiting to shine, when to let the mystery unfold and surprise. It is not laissez-faire or "what will be will be"--rather, it is an ongoing movement rooted in observation and reflection. This is the living landscape we strive to design and build at The Natural Garden.

We call these gardens "living landscapes" because the native plants they contain seed off and change locations from year to year in a dynamic, dramatic show. The gardener becomes audience, director, and dramaturge--all in one--rather than one who tightly controls the results. (What is a dramaturge, one might ask if their friends are not in the theater?) Oxford languages explains: "1. a dramatist. 2. a literary editor on the staff of a theater who consults with authors and edits texts." In living landscapes, the native plants become a sort of text which the gardener edits in order to shape the unfolding drama for the current and next season. The gardener chooses where to pull back overly assertive plants, when to nudge forward the under-confident actor waiting to shine, when to let the mystery unfold and surprise. It is not laissez-faire or "what will be will be"--rather, it is an ongoing movement rooted in observation and reflection. This is the living landscape we strive to design and build at The Natural Garden.

We call these gardens "living landscapes" because the native plants they contain seed off and change locations from year to year in a dynamic, dramatic show. The gardener becomes audience, director, and dramaturge--all in one--rather than one who tightly controls the results. (What is a dramaturge, one might ask if their friends are not in the theater?) Oxford languages explains: "1. a dramatist. 2. a literary editor on the staff of a theater who consults with authors and edits texts." In living landscapes, the native plants become a sort of text which the gardener edits in order to shape the unfolding drama for the current and next season. The gardener chooses where to pull back overly assertive plants, when to nudge forward the under-confident actor waiting to shine, when to let the mystery unfold and surprise. It is not laissez-faire or "what will be will be"--rather, it is an ongoing movement rooted in observation and reflection. This is the living landscape we strive to design and build at The Natural Garden.

We call these gardens "living landscapes" because the native plants they contain seed off and change locations from year to year in a dynamic, dramatic show. The gardener becomes audience, director, and dramaturge--all in one--rather than one who tightly controls the results. (What is a dramaturge, one might ask if their friends are not in the theater?) Oxford languages explains: "1. a dramatist. 2. a literary editor on the staff of a theater who consults with authors and edits texts." In living landscapes, the native plants become a sort of text which the gardener edits in order to shape the unfolding drama for the current and next season. The gardener chooses where to pull back overly assertive plants, when to nudge forward the under-confident actor waiting to shine, when to let the mystery unfold and surprise. It is not laissez-faire or "what will be will be"--rather, it is an ongoing movement rooted in observation and reflection. This is the living landscape we strive to design and build at The Natural Garden.

Les contrastes ne peuvent être plus affirmés dans toute leur simplicité. Les armoires de cette cuisine ont été fabriquées avec deux matériaux bien distincts : Un MDF laqué noir mat et un polymère blanc ultra lustré. Une touche d’accessoires en bois « rough chic » pour venir créer une ambiance des plus actuelles et feutrée. Les tablettes sont soutenues par des supports en acier brut conçus sur mesure pour ce projet. The contrast could not be more assertive in all their simplicity.This kitchen cabinets were made with two distinct materials: A matt black lacquered MDF and super gloss white polymer. A touch of wooden accessories “chic rough” to come create an atmosphere more current and hushed. The shelves are supported by brackets tailored crude steel for the project.

Circa 1890 3’6" X 6’2" Original conditions with wearer and missing at one end Beautiful rust, ivory, blue, greens, and gold This antique Kazak Karachof rug has classically beautiful tribal and primitive design. It has beautiful vegetable dyes and tribal patterns. with three octagonal medallions and ivory border. Famed for its rich colors, assertive, geometric drawing, and bold, large scale designs. The darker tones of the rug give it depth and a sense of warmth. This intensely graphic, late 19th century kazak rug draws the eye to its rendition of the traditional “Karachof” design of a row of overscale octagonal medallions.This antique tribal design Karachoph rug adds a primitive quality to the interior design while at the same time it adds a sense of mystery through the use of ancient symbols. The Karachof rugs (also spelled Karachoph) are stunning beautiful antique Oriental rugs, which are the most difficult to locate and quite cherished by collectors of antique rugs.

This is an organic Lime Wash done with a true lime wash product as opposed to a brick mortar or concrete that is often seen on new houses. This product can be applied as a solid coating making the surface completely white, or can be applied and "washed off" in many artistic ways, as seen here. If you hate your brick or just want something unique this is a great option! Photo credit: Jeff Murrey

Builder: Pillar Homes www.pillarhomes.com
Arts and crafts bathroom photo in Minneapolis

With this project, the challenge was to create a large home suitable to the contemporary needs of the client without compromising the classic, historic integrity of the Edina neighborhood. With distinct references to colonial and shingle-style architecture, the final design marries a classical rigor with the vernacular overtones of a farmhouse. Classical proportions and detailing formalize a serious yet playful arrangement of mass and form on the exterior. The white-on-white cladding calls to mind the fresh simplicity of a farmhouse, as does the long, breezy porch that stretches across the front facade. Though the site was not without its challenges, we took advantage of opportunities for a lower-level walkout and main-level rear walkout to bridge indoor and outdoor space. The interior of this home combines the tasteful language of architectural tradition with a fresh and contemporary interpretation. The open, modern plan blurs the distinction between formal and informal. Classically inspired detailing, like the enameled ceiling beams extending from one room to the next, is used to unify space and assert a pronounced architectural order. The use of natural light is also crucial in this regard; windows are strategically positioned to pull light completely through the house Dignified yet relaxed, this bright and comfortable family home is both modern and contextually appropriate in an established neighborhood known for its historical styles and traditional influence.

Wood paneling with a glowing niche, an arched doorway opening to an adjoining room, and natural light softened through sheer curtains — this dining room holds its warmth across every layer and every hour of the day. The LINKORI AURALITH pendant anchors the space from above, its geometric alabaster ring casting a warm, even glow that connects the room's layered light sources into a single cohesive atmosphere without asserting dominance over any of them. Crafted from natural Spanish alabaster, the stone diffuses its integrated LED source in a soft 360° wash — glare-free, warm, and responsive to the room's shifting natural light throughout the day. Its sculptural form holds visual weight whether lit or unlit, making it as present in a sun-filled afternoon as it is in an evening set for dinner. Available in Ø23.6" and Ø31.5". Adjustable suspension height. Dimmable. Contact us for trade pricing and project consultation.

The way one chooses to maintain one's garden is an important element of design. One option is to leave intact last year's growth on warm-season grasses for their sculptural quality. We love how the native Meadow Petunia fills in all the gaps, while the Black Eyed Susans provide bright and bold contrast to the mix. We call these gardens "living landscapes" because the native plants they contain seed off and change locations from year to year in a dynamic, dramatic show. The gardener becomes audience, director, and dramaturge--all in one--rather than one who tightly controls the results. (What is a dramaturge, one might ask if their friends are not in the theater?) Oxford languages explains: "1. a dramatist. 2. a literary editor on the staff of a theater who consults with authors and edits texts." In living landscapes, the native plants become a sort of text which the gardener edits in order to shape the unfolding drama for the current and next season. The gardener chooses where to pull back overly assertive plants, when to nudge forward the under-confident actor waiting to shine, when to let the mystery unfold and surprise. It is not laissez-faire or "what will be will be"--rather, it is an ongoing movement rooted in observation and reflection. This is the living landscape we strive to design and build at The Natural Garden.

Example of a mid-sized transitional freestanding desk dark wood floor and brown floor study room design in New York with beige walls and no fireplace

Soft Modern is perfect for those who appreciate both form and function, this style blends the clean lines of modern design with a warm, welcoming palette for a look that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and luxury. Even neutrals can make a strong statement. The warm, subtle backdrop of Chai Latte paired with Bella MDF speaks of refined quality. The cool brilliance of Brava Charcoal glass with a matte sheen suggests a calm serenity. Bright white porcelain floor tiles and counters in classic marble tones with subtle grey veins assert a fresh, clean brightness. When a room's design is minimal, its storage space is critical. With Design-Craft, innovative solutions make any space versatile and fully functional while maintaining the architectural grace of a modern design. Like sleek wall cabinets with motorized, touch-activated bifold doors. Overhead wall storage with lift-and-stay horizontal doors add interest to a room's character. Appliances that are strategically disguised with custom paneling to give the space a cohesive feel. Because gorgeous design paired with ultimate functionality is the most beautiful thing of all.