It was in every way, Ramsey says, a once-in-a-lifetime professional and personal experience. “My favorite part of this project was the glow on John and Betty’s faces upon the completion of the hacienda,” she says. “They became not only satisfied clients, but friends for life. It was very challenging but so rewarding.” Helping her and the Martins embrace the home’s challenges was Kendrick, who has been in the design business for more than 40 years. Despite her long career, Kendrick admits to being speechless when she first viewed the ranch’s blueprints and renderings. “The central courtyard had a bell tower over the front entrance gate — a real one,” she says. “The main house had an observation tower that overlooked the dammed-up river and a picturesque view of heaven on earth. There was a magnificent outdoor kitchen off of an enormous porch. This home was to have all the bells and whistles, with unimaginable details, while sparing no expense.” All three women embraced the challenges of creating the Kemosabe Ranch abode, including designing and building 58 chandeliers and sconces, dozens of custom doors and cabinets, two fully tricked-out kitchens — one inside, one out — and myriad accessories such as candle holders. Regardless of a proposed element’s complexity, like the hammered copper panels in the cabinet doors, Kendrick’s response was the same: “No problem.” Betty Martin is as apt to talk reverently about all of the craftsmen, contractors and suppliers who worked on her home’s features, from the 10-foot Mexican limestone fountain in the courtyard to the outdoor fossil art wall, as she is to want to bask in the grandeur of the finished project. That’s not surprising, given its scope to rival that of the Taj Mahal. But having been so intimately involved in the process has given her an even greater sense of pride in ownership of her dazzling dwelling. “It’s hard for me to pick out the part of the project that I love the most,” she says.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cottage to call home. Especially when you can get creative, renovating key spaces to balance modern convenience and vintage charm. We collaborated with the talented homeowners to bring their vision to life an the results speak for themselves. A gourmet kitchen fits seamlessly in the original home’s footprint and not one, but two thoughtfully re-designed bathrooms bring a slice of luxury and function to this sweet little home. The modern-meets-classic kitchen tiles started it all, setting the tone for the entire renovation. Gourmet appliances and custom cabinetry maximized function and storage and new lighting was a perfect finishing touch. We completely re-worked the home’s “master” bath (you should see the “before!”), adding a spacious frameless glass shower. In the basement, the new bathroom is every bit the retreat the homeowner dreamed of, with the freestanding composite tub, an enormous vanity and a hidden stackable washer and dryer. The decommissioned fireplace is oh-so decorative, showing off with new Ann Sacks marble mosaic tile. The transformation is impressive, and it’s so rewarding to see this lovely couple and sweet pup happy in their adorable home! Furniture staging for photography provided by Crush Staging, Portland. Photography by Cody Wheeler.

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.

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cottage to call home. Especially when you can get creative, renovating key spaces to balance modern convenience and vintage charm. We collaborated with the talented homeowners to bring their vision to life an the results speak for themselves. A gourmet kitchen fits seamlessly in the original home’s footprint and not one, but two thoughtfully re-designed bathrooms bring a slice of luxury and function to this sweet little home. The modern-meets-classic kitchen tiles started it all, setting the tone for the entire renovation. Gourmet appliances and custom cabinetry maximized function and storage and new lighting was a perfect finishing touch. We completely re-worked the home’s “master” bath (you should see the “before!”), adding a spacious frameless glass shower. In the basement, the new bathroom is every bit the retreat the homeowner dreamed of, with the freestanding composite tub, an enormous vanity and a hidden stackable washer and dryer. The decommissioned fireplace is oh-so decorative, showing off with new Ann Sacks marble mosaic tile. The transformation is impressive, and it’s so rewarding to see this lovely couple and sweet pup happy in their adorable home! Furniture staging for photography provided by Crush Staging, Portland. Photography by Cody Wheeler.

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cottage to call home. Especially when you can get creative, renovating key spaces to balance modern convenience and vintage charm. We collaborated with the talented homeowners to bring their vision to life an the results speak for themselves. A gourmet kitchen fits seamlessly in the original home’s footprint and not one, but two thoughtfully re-designed bathrooms bring a slice of luxury and function to this sweet little home. The modern-meets-classic kitchen tiles started it all, setting the tone for the entire renovation. Gourmet appliances and custom cabinetry maximized function and storage and new lighting was a perfect finishing touch. We completely re-worked the home’s “master” bath (you should see the “before!”), adding a spacious frameless glass shower. In the basement, the new bathroom is every bit the retreat the homeowner dreamed of, with the freestanding composite tub, an enormous vanity and a hidden stackable washer and dryer. The decommissioned fireplace is oh-so decorative, showing off with new Ann Sacks marble mosaic tile. The transformation is impressive, and it’s so rewarding to see this lovely couple and sweet pup happy in their adorable home! Furniture staging for photography provided by Crush Staging, Portland. Photography by Cody Wheeler.

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.

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.

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.

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cottage to call home. Especially when you can get creative, renovating key spaces to balance modern convenience and vintage charm. We collaborated with the talented homeowners to bring their vision to life an the results speak for themselves. A gourmet kitchen fits seamlessly in the original home’s footprint and not one, but two thoughtfully re-designed bathrooms bring a slice of luxury and function to this sweet little home. The modern-meets-classic kitchen tiles started it all, setting the tone for the entire renovation. Gourmet appliances and custom cabinetry maximized function and storage and new lighting was a perfect finishing touch. We completely re-worked the home’s “master” bath (you should see the “before!”), adding a spacious frameless glass shower. In the basement, the new bathroom is every bit the retreat the homeowner dreamed of, with the freestanding composite tub, an enormous vanity and a hidden stackable washer and dryer. The decommissioned fireplace is oh-so decorative, showing off with new Ann Sacks marble mosaic tile. The transformation is impressive, and it’s so rewarding to see this lovely couple and sweet pup happy in their adorable home! Furniture staging for photography provided by Crush Staging, Portland. Photography by Cody Wheeler.

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cottage to call home. Especially when you can get creative, renovating key spaces to balance modern convenience and vintage charm. We collaborated with the talented homeowners to bring their vision to life an the results speak for themselves. A gourmet kitchen fits seamlessly in the original home’s footprint and not one, but two thoughtfully re-designed bathrooms bring a slice of luxury and function to this sweet little home. The modern-meets-classic kitchen tiles started it all, setting the tone for the entire renovation. Gourmet appliances and custom cabinetry maximized function and storage and new lighting was a perfect finishing touch. We completely re-worked the home’s “master” bath (you should see the “before!”), adding a spacious frameless glass shower. In the basement, the new bathroom is every bit the retreat the homeowner dreamed of, with the freestanding composite tub, an enormous vanity and a hidden stackable washer and dryer. The decommissioned fireplace is oh-so decorative, showing off with new Ann Sacks marble mosaic tile. The transformation is impressive, and it’s so rewarding to see this lovely couple and sweet pup happy in their adorable home! Furniture staging for photography provided by Crush Staging, Portland. Photography by Cody Wheeler.

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cottage to call home. Especially when you can get creative, renovating key spaces to balance modern convenience and vintage charm. We collaborated with the talented homeowners to bring their vision to life an the results speak for themselves. A gourmet kitchen fits seamlessly in the original home’s footprint and not one, but two thoughtfully re-designed bathrooms bring a slice of luxury and function to this sweet little home. The modern-meets-classic kitchen tiles started it all, setting the tone for the entire renovation. Gourmet appliances and custom cabinetry maximized function and storage and new lighting was a perfect finishing touch. We completely re-worked the home’s “master” bath (you should see the “before!”), adding a spacious frameless glass shower. In the basement, the new bathroom is every bit the retreat the homeowner dreamed of, with the freestanding composite tub, an enormous vanity and a hidden stackable washer and dryer. The decommissioned fireplace is oh-so decorative, showing off with new Ann Sacks marble mosaic tile. The transformation is impressive, and it’s so rewarding to see this lovely couple and sweet pup happy in their adorable home! Furniture staging for photography provided by Crush Staging, Portland. Photography by Cody Wheeler.

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cottage to call home. Especially when you can get creative, renovating key spaces to balance modern convenience and vintage charm. We collaborated with the talented homeowners to bring their vision to life an the results speak for themselves. A gourmet kitchen fits seamlessly in the original home’s footprint and not one, but two thoughtfully re-designed bathrooms bring a slice of luxury and function to this sweet little home. The modern-meets-classic kitchen tiles started it all, setting the tone for the entire renovation. Gourmet appliances and custom cabinetry maximized function and storage and new lighting was a perfect finishing touch. We completely re-worked the home’s “master” bath (you should see the “before!”), adding a spacious frameless glass shower. In the basement, the new bathroom is every bit the retreat the homeowner dreamed of, with the freestanding composite tub, an enormous vanity and a hidden stackable washer and dryer. The decommissioned fireplace is oh-so decorative, showing off with new Ann Sacks marble mosaic tile. The transformation is impressive, and it’s so rewarding to see this lovely couple and sweet pup happy in their adorable home! Furniture staging for photography provided by Crush Staging, Portland. Photography by Cody Wheeler.

There’s nothing quite like a cozy cottage to call home. Especially when you can get creative, renovating key spaces to balance modern convenience and vintage charm. We collaborated with the talented homeowners to bring their vision to life an the results speak for themselves. A gourmet kitchen fits seamlessly in the original home’s footprint and not one, but two thoughtfully re-designed bathrooms bring a slice of luxury and function to this sweet little home. The modern-meets-classic kitchen tiles started it all, setting the tone for the entire renovation. Gourmet appliances and custom cabinetry maximized function and storage and new lighting was a perfect finishing touch. We completely re-worked the home’s “master” bath (you should see the “before!”), adding a spacious frameless glass shower. In the basement, the new bathroom is every bit the retreat the homeowner dreamed of, with the freestanding composite tub, an enormous vanity and a hidden stackable washer and dryer. The decommissioned fireplace is oh-so decorative, showing off with new Ann Sacks marble mosaic tile. The transformation is impressive, and it’s so rewarding to see this lovely couple and sweet pup happy in their adorable home! Furniture staging for photography provided by Crush Staging, Portland. Photography by Cody Wheeler.

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.