We first met our clients when a home renovation project was almost complete. The front of the house had undergone a dramatic facelift with the addition of an extension of the façade and a deep covered porch, and the landscape needed major help. A range of disparate issues faced us: post-construction soil on the site, an existing bed of massive boulders near the new entrance walk, and a badly-eroded culvert area on the side of the property on County land. Existing plantings were badly damaged or overgrown. The most serious issue, though, was a massive drainage problem due to the site’s topography; in heavy rainstorms a river literally tumbled downhill past the front of the house, cutting a trench on either side of the walkway. We turned the site’s challenges into its solutions to give the owners the beautiful garden they wanted. Using the line of the existing swale, we created a dry streambed to direct rainwater towards the existing culvert, which we also filled with river jacks and boulders. The streambed area is planted with plants that can withstand periodic flooding as well as occasional drought, and that provide seasonal color. At the end, we had transformed the owners’ front yard experience into the garden of their dreams. ©Melissa Clark Photography. All rights reserved.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

A little leaf cordia adds beauty to a courtyard area.
Photo of a southwestern landscaping in Phoenix.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

This tired, unused San Francisco backyard was transformed into a modern, low-maintenance landscape with site-appropriate plantings enhanced by raised planting beds and a lead-free artificial lawn to replace the existing water-thirsty lawn. I created two separate "rooms" to break up the long narrow yard, and specified full range blue stone for the two small patio areas, connected by a curved pattern of rectangular pavers of the same natural stone. The raised concrete rectangular planting beds were incorporated to bring more movement and interest to the landscape along with gravel bed accents alongside. Some of the existing concrete remained, and was stained with a color to compliment the natural stone. These photos were taken over a three year period. Photos: © Landscape Designer, Eileen Kelly, Dig Your Garden Landscape Design.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

Property Marketed by Hudson Place Realty - Seldom seen, this unique property offers the highest level of original period detail and old world craftsmanship. With its 19th century provenance, 6000+ square feet and outstanding architectural elements, 913 Hudson Street captures the essence of its prominent address and rich history. An extensive and thoughtful renovation has revived this exceptional home to its original elegance while being mindful of the modern-day urban family. Perched on eastern Hudson Street, 913 impresses with its 33’ wide lot, terraced front yard, original iron doors and gates, a turreted limestone facade and distinctive mansard roof. The private walled-in rear yard features a fabulous outdoor kitchen complete with gas grill, refrigeration and storage drawers. The generous side yard allows for 3 sides of windows, infusing the home with natural light. The 21st century design conveniently features the kitchen, living & dining rooms on the parlor floor, that suits both elaborate entertaining and a more private, intimate lifestyle. Dramatic double doors lead you to the formal living room replete with a stately gas fireplace with original tile surround, an adjoining center sitting room with bay window and grand formal dining room. A made-to-order kitchen showcases classic cream cabinetry, 48” Wolf range with pot filler, SubZero refrigerator and Miele dishwasher. A large center island houses a Decor warming drawer, additional under-counter refrigerator and freezer and secondary prep sink. Additional walk-in pantry and powder room complete the parlor floor. The 3rd floor Master retreat features a sitting room, dressing hall with 5 double closets and laundry center, en suite fitness room and calming master bath; magnificently appointed with steam shower, BainUltra tub and marble tile with inset mosaics. Truly a one-of-a-kind home with custom milled doors, restored ceiling medallions, original inlaid flooring, regal moldings, central vacuum, touch screen home automation and sound system, 4 zone central air conditioning & 10 zone radiant heat.

This partially wooded, acre and a half lot in West Dundee presented many challenges. The clients began working with a Landscape Architect in the early spring, but after not getting the innovative ideas they were seeking, the home builder and Architect suggested the client contact our landscape design/build firm. We immediately hit it off with the charismatic clients. They had a tall order for us: complete the design and implement the construction within a three month period. For many projects this would be a reasonable time frame. However construction delays and the coordination of multiple trades left a very short window to complete the work. Beyond the tight time frame the site required specific care in preserving the many mature surrounding trees, as well as addressing a vast grade change. Over fifteen feet of grade change occurs from one end of this woodland property to the other. All of these constraints proved to be an enormous challenge as we worked to include and coordinate the following elements: the drive layout, a dramatic front entry, various gardens, landscape lighting, irrigation, and a plan for a backyard pool and entertainment space that already had been started without a clear plan. Fortunately, the client loved our design ideas and attention to detail and we were able to mobilize and begin construction. With the seamless coordination between our firm and the builder we implemented all the elements of this grand project. In total eight different crews and five separate trades worked together to complete the landscape. The completed project resulted in a rewarding experience for our firm, the builder and architect, as well as the client. Together we were able to create and construct a perfect oasis for the client that suited the beautiful property and the architecture of this dream home.

1900 meets 2023 in this historic Brooklyn brownstone overlooking a private backyard oasis. Honoring the home’s legacy is the black and white ¾” mosaic tile floor in an intricate border pattern around the cabinetry and balcony door. Fast-forward to the present with the cutting edge stainless steel waterfall island. Nostalgic touches abound. Cabinetry is white painted traditional inset construction with a graceful ogee inner profile. Double stacked wall cabinets take full advantage of the tall ceiling height, with triple panels and a shallow display cabinet at the hood elevation for added interest. A rolling library ladder provides convenient access to the upper storage. Polished nickel hinges, decorative hardware, faucets, and ladder rails get an updated twist with their pared-down shapes. Perennially popular marble countertops and white subway backsplash tiles further reinforce the period-correct theme. Then flipping the script are contemporary, black-trimmed windows, matte black metal dome pendants, and acrylic island stools. To supply some respite for the sea of white, walnut highlights the interiors of the mullion glass cabinets and the two open tray bases flanking the microwave drawer. The wood accent is repeated in the library ladder, which hangs at the ready and functions as a piece of art.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

Property Marketed by Hudson Place Realty - Seldom seen, this unique property offers the highest level of original period detail and old world craftsmanship. With its 19th century provenance, 6000+ square feet and outstanding architectural elements, 913 Hudson Street captures the essence of its prominent address and rich history. An extensive and thoughtful renovation has revived this exceptional home to its original elegance while being mindful of the modern-day urban family. Perched on eastern Hudson Street, 913 impresses with its 33’ wide lot, terraced front yard, original iron doors and gates, a turreted limestone facade and distinctive mansard roof. The private walled-in rear yard features a fabulous outdoor kitchen complete with gas grill, refrigeration and storage drawers. The generous side yard allows for 3 sides of windows, infusing the home with natural light. The 21st century design conveniently features the kitchen, living & dining rooms on the parlor floor, that suits both elaborate entertaining and a more private, intimate lifestyle. Dramatic double doors lead you to the formal living room replete with a stately gas fireplace with original tile surround, an adjoining center sitting room with bay window and grand formal dining room. A made-to-order kitchen showcases classic cream cabinetry, 48” Wolf range with pot filler, SubZero refrigerator and Miele dishwasher. A large center island houses a Decor warming drawer, additional under-counter refrigerator and freezer and secondary prep sink. Additional walk-in pantry and powder room complete the parlor floor. The 3rd floor Master retreat features a sitting room, dressing hall with 5 double closets and laundry center, en suite fitness room and calming master bath; magnificently appointed with steam shower, BainUltra tub and marble tile with inset mosaics. Truly a one-of-a-kind home with custom milled doors, restored ceiling medallions, original inlaid flooring, regal moldings, central vacuum, touch screen home automation and sound system, 4 zone central air conditioning & 10 zone radiant heat.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

1900 meets 2023 in this historic Brooklyn brownstone overlooking a private backyard oasis. Honoring the home’s legacy is the black and white ¾” mosaic tile floor in an intricate border pattern around the cabinetry and balcony door. Fast-forward to the present with the cutting edge stainless steel waterfall island. Nostalgic touches abound. Cabinetry is white painted traditional inset construction with a graceful ogee inner profile. Double stacked wall cabinets take full advantage of the tall ceiling height, with triple panels and a shallow display cabinet at the hood elevation for added interest. A rolling library ladder provides convenient access to the upper storage. Polished nickel hinges, decorative hardware, faucets, and ladder rails get an updated twist with their pared-down shapes. Perennially popular marble countertops and white subway backsplash tiles further reinforce the period-correct theme. Then flipping the script are contemporary, black-trimmed windows, matte black metal dome pendants, and acrylic island stools. To supply some respite for the sea of white, walnut highlights the interiors of the mullion glass cabinets and the two open tray bases flanking the microwave drawer. The wood accent is repeated in the library ladder, which hangs at the ready and functions as a piece of art.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.

Waterfront home in Miami Beach that we supplied the authentic florida keystone tiles. notice the natural patina that occurs over time, now this is what a coral stone pool deck is suppose to look like NICE. The islands of the Lower Keys in the Florida Keys, as well as some barrier islands east of Miami bordering Biscayne Bay, are mainly oolitic limestone, which was formed by deposition when shallow seas covered the area between periods of glaciation. The material consolidated and eroded during later exposure above the ocean surface.