The best kitchen design begins with the goal of enhancing functionality. We were looking for the shortest distance from fridge to stove to sink. This is known as the “golden triangle” of kitchen design. We also wanted the food preparation process to flow in one direction: From food storage to preparation to cooking to cleaning. This is the ideal kitchen flow because it eliminates traffic jams and keeps fresh food safer by moving from cold to warm. One side of the island allows comfortable seating for four, while the other side boasts spacious storage with 2 deep drawers and 5 cabinets, as well as two key appliances. The photo above shows how food preparation traffic moves from the fridge to island to range and finally sink and dishwasher. The golden triangle in action! An Avallon beverage center is located on the “cold foods” side of the island. This stainless-steel under-counter split-zone refrigerator is sure to please every wine and beer enthusiast. The left side is cooled to 58 degrees for wine, while the right side cools down to 34 degrees for beer. Both sides feature pull-out shelves, and each side is lockable for safety. Moving down to the “warm foods” side of the island is a Thermador microwave drawer, which has easy access from above. We also chose Thermador for our fridge, ovens, gas range and dishwasher.

Any homebody or decor enthusiast would feel right at home in a luxury property with a traditional theme and gorgeous custom woodwork throughout. This lavish setting would feature a cozy and light living room, with a floor to ceiling brick fireplace being the main focal point of the space. In addition, the kitchen features custom backsplash that complements its large island, perfect for additional seating. To top it off, this luxury property offers a top notch primary bathroom with beautiful tile decorating the tub and an immense walk-in shower providing an exquisite spa-like atmosphere. MMD Construction is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network. Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples. As a Certified Luxury Builder, MMD Construction is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information.

Any homebody or decor enthusiast would feel right at home in a luxury property with a traditional theme and gorgeous custom woodwork throughout. This lavish setting would feature a cozy and light living room, with a floor to ceiling brick fireplace being the main focal point of the space. In addition, the kitchen features custom backsplash that complements its large island, perfect for additional seating. To top it off, this luxury property offers a top notch primary bathroom with beautiful tile decorating the tub and an immense walk-in shower providing an exquisite spa-like atmosphere. MMD Construction is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network. Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples. As a Certified Luxury Builder, MMD Construction is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information.

All of our clients are unique and so is this new custom home designed to meet our client’s particular needs. The layout takes full advantage of their spectacular property with 270 degree views of the Ottawa River. The building footprint is a small area of the overall site, and we had to be creative to ensure the home design optimizes the available area. Our clients are true outdoor enthusiasts who want their home to respect and reflect the environment around it. Many features, such as floor-to-ceiling windows and a spacious screened porch with outdoor kitchen, welcome the outdoors into their living spaces. A solar array along the south facing roofs and other LEED features will help minimize the overall environmental footprint. The redwood siding and architectural features compliment the surrounding forest. The silver galvanized siding reflects the sparkling eddies in the nearby rapids, and the darker siding symbolizes the earth and heavily-wooded area around the site. The main floor layout is open concept with a great room, kitchen, and dining area as the heart of the home. A stone fireplace anchors the great room, though it will be the wall of windows revealing a stunning view that will dominate the space. A sizable walk-in closet and powder room are conveniently located off the entrance foyer. Upstairs, the primary bedroom has a well-appointed ensuite bath and large walk-in closet. A nursery and a spacious office with wonderful view are also located on the upper level. The change in grade means that the lower level has full-size windows and direct access to the outdoors. It expands the living space with a rec room, two bedrooms, full bath, laundry room, and mechanical room. The tandem garage is oversized to provide ample space for all their outdoor equipment, along with vehicles and space for a small workbench.

38 Smugglers Path Ithaca, NY 14850 Visit: CayugaLakeWatch.com for full gallery & video tour. Dramatic 2-story foyer opens to the generously proportioned living spaces. Living room boasts attractive bamboo flooring, gas fireplace, glass waterfall, cathedral ceiling and a wall of windows that overlooks the mature landscaping, infinity-edge pool, and Cayuga Lake. Gourmet eat-in kitchen features plenty of storage and prep space, built-in refrigerator, two sinks, breakfast bar, dining area and access to the back Trex deck. The exquisite formal dining room is ideal for the hosting enthusiast with custom built Zebrawood cabinetry and illuminated bar. The home office is nothing short then incredible with lustrous Zebrawood cabinets and desk, and a view you are sure to get lost in. The master suite is your private oasis -- vaulted ceiling, custom built-ins, gas fireplace and breathtaking lake views from the private balconies hot tub and en-suite. The en-suite includes two vanities, huge walk-in closets and jetted tub and shower surrounded by marble. Extraordinary walkout lower level will be your guest and hosting headquarters -- complete with an over-sized game and entertainment room, bedroom and full bathroom. Enjoy the infinity-edge pool with 10-person hot tub day or night, or sunbathe on the patio -- fenced-in and landscaped extensively to provide complete privacy. Surround sound has been strategically placed for main level, lower level, and poolside enjoyment. Additional amenities include Hunter Douglas remote shades, 2 new energy efficient furnaces, whole house generator, heated 3-car garage and more!! Jolene Rightmyer-Macolini⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Licensed Associate R.E. Broker⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ cell: 607-339-1559⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Jolene@SellsYourProperty.com⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣ Office: ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣710 Hancock St. Ithaca, NY 14850⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

Any homebody or decor enthusiast would feel right at home in a luxury property with a traditional theme and gorgeous custom woodwork throughout. This lavish setting would feature a cozy and light living room, with a floor to ceiling brick fireplace being the main focal point of the space. In addition, the kitchen features custom backsplash that complements its large island, perfect for additional seating. To top it off, this luxury property offers a top notch primary bathroom with beautiful tile decorating the tub and an immense walk-in shower providing an exquisite spa-like atmosphere. CRx Construction is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network. Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples. As a Certified Luxury Builder, CRx Construction is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information.

"About: Any homebody or decor enthusiast would feel right at home in a luxury property with a traditional theme and gorgeous custom woodwork throughout. This lavish setting would feature a cozy and light living room, with a floor to ceiling brick fireplace being the main focal point of the space. In addition, the kitchen features custom backsplash that complements its large island, perfect for additional seating. To top it off, this luxury property offers a top notch primary bathroom with beautiful tile decorating the tub and an immense walk-in shower providing an exquisite spa-like atmosphere. Norman Builders is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network. Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples. As a Certified Luxury Builder, Norman Builders is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information."

Any homebody or decor enthusiast would feel right at home in a luxury property with a traditional theme and gorgeous custom woodwork throughout. This lavish setting would feature a cozy and light living room, with a floor to ceiling brick fireplace being the main focal point of the space. In addition, the kitchen features custom backsplash that complements its large island, perfect for additional seating. To top it off, this luxury property offers a top notch primary bathroom with beautiful tile decorating the tub and an immense walk-in shower providing an exquisite spa-like atmosphere. 41 West is a member of the Certified Luxury Builders Network. Certified Luxury Builders is a network of leading custom home builders and luxury home and condo remodelers who create 5-Star experiences for luxury home and condo owners from New York to Los Angeles and Boston to Naples. As a Certified Luxury Builder, 41 West is proud to feature photos of select projects from our members around the country to inspire you with design ideas. Please feel free to contact the specific Certified Luxury Builder with any questions or inquiries you may have about their projects. Please visit www.CLBNetwork.com for a directory of CLB members featured on Houzz and their contact information.

https://pipafineart.com/products/fly-fishing-prints-anglers-reverie-minimal-fishing-photorealism-digital-artwork-loose-print. Escape to a tranquil riverside haven with "Angler's Reverie," an artwork that perfectly encapsulates the serenity of a solitary fishing experience. This photorealistic print transports you to a peaceful riverbank where a lone fisherman casts his line into the calm waters, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle sounds of nature. The soft, diffused light and the stillness of the scene create an atmosphere of peaceful contemplation, inviting you to share in the angler's moment of quiet reflection. Printed on high-quality photo paper with premium inks, "Angler's Reverie" brings the beauty and tranquility of this idyllic setting into your home. Hang "Angler's Reverie" in your living room, bedroom, dining room, or office to create a calming atmosphere that promotes relaxation and mindfulness. This artwork serves as a gentle reminder to slow down, appreciate the simple pleasures in life, and connect with the natural world. The harmonious blend of colors and the serene subject matter make it a versatile piece that complements a variety of décor styles, adding a touch of tranquility and natural beauty to any space. "Angler's Reverie" is made in the USA and printed on demand, ensuring a high-quality piece that will be cherished for years to come. Available in a variety of sizes, it makes a perfect gift for nature lovers, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of a quiet moment spent in nature.

https://pipafineart.com/products/art-wheat-amber-waves-minimal-botanical-rustic-subdued-wheat-crops-photorealism-painting-digital-artwork-frameless-print. Immerse yourself in the golden hour with "Amber Waves," a captivating artwork that captures the serene beauty of a wheat field bathed in the warm glow of sunset. This photorealistic print showcases the delicate texture of each stalk and the gentle sway of the wheat as it dances in the breeze. The rich, amber hues and the soft, diffused light create a sense of tranquility and peace, transporting you to a quiet countryside where time seems to stand still. Printed on high-quality photo paper with premium inks, this loose art print brings the beauty of the golden hour into your home. "Amber Waves" evokes a sense of nostalgia and the simple pleasures of nature. Hang it in your living room, bedroom, dining room, or office to create a calming atmosphere that invites relaxation and reflection. The warm color palette and gentle subject matter make it a versatile piece that complements a variety of décor styles, adding a touch of rustic charm and natural beauty. This artwork is made in the USA and printed on demand, ensuring a high-quality piece that will be cherished for years to come. Available in a variety of sizes, "Amber Waves" is a perfect gift for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the simple beauty of a golden sunset.

Scandinavian kilims and Swedish rugs have the unique ability to harmonize effortlessly with many different interior design styles: Hygge, Organic Modern, New Nordic, Contemporary, Danish Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco, Cubism, Folk Art, Nomadic, and Industrial. Incorporating warp strands and tightly interwoven wefts, Scandinavian kilim rugs use colorfully designed wool for weft strands, making them highly desired by collectors and interior designers. In addition to abundant symbolism, various pattern placements, floral designs and rich shades of yellow, white and gray. A leading figure in modern Scandinavian rug-making and Swedish textile art is Märta Måås-Fjetterström, whose flat-weave rugs you will find at Esmaili Rugs and Antiques. Unbelievably skilled in imagining composition, form and line, Måås-Fjetterströms weavers like Barbro Nilsson, Ida Rydelius, Ingrid Dessau, Ingegerd Silow, Anna Andersson, Marianne Richter rug creations are full of natural visions transformed into decorative works of art considered esteemed ornamental treasures by rug historians and enthusiasts.

Arnaud Marthouret
Foyer - large modern foyer idea in Toronto with brown walls and a light wood front door

Tiered of the looking out at a shabby brown lawn in their front yard and unwilling to use the water to keep it green these homeowners decided to go for something different. The wife in this household worked from home and was motivated to have a better view from her home office. As an enthusiastic bird watcher, I wanted to give her a view that included happy birds fluttering about. The husband was annoyed by the fact that some of the neighbors allowed their dogs to use this corner lot a toilet without having the curtesy of cleaning up after them. My job was to create a low water landscape (also known as xeriscape) that attracted birds, bees and butterflies but kept the dogs off. We started with directing down spouts in to catch basins called infiltration swales. These swales capture water storing it in the soil where it can be accessed by plants months after the rains have stopped. Then we integrated primarily California native plants and succulents into the design. Special attention was payed to the water needs of the plants and the ideal growing conditions for each species so that the combination of earthworks and plant choice and placement this landscape can get by with zero supplemental irrigation after the period of establishment this landscape. By incorporating flowering California native plants, native birds and insects flocked to the site in a neighborhood otherwise dominated by lifeless landscapes. By surrounding the garden with decomposed granite and succulents we created a space that was unpleasant and unappealing for dogs to relive themselves while remaining appealing to more human sensibilities. Today this property sits on the corner in a suburban neighborhood of Goleta, California. Hopefully serving as inspiration to take out lawns and build beautiful gardens that work to integrate the man made landscape with the natural ecosystem in which it is built.

Beautiful eucalyptus green cabinetry showcases Rookwood Americana Pottery.
Mid-sized transitional u-shaped medium tone wood floor and brown floor open concept kitchen photo in Seattle with a farmhouse sink, green cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, white countertops, flat-panel cabinets, quartz countertops, ceramic backsplash and a peninsula

From Mid-Century Classic to the Present An iconic design updated with comfort, function, and flow for today. A Remodel That Balances Past and Present What started as a desire to update a classic Eichler soon became an exploration of how Mid-Century Modern design can successfully evolve for today. The client, a tech professional with a passion for scuba diving and underwater photography, wanted a home that would both honor its original character and feel tailored to his daily life. A lifelong technology enthusiast, he still owns the very first Mac desktop he saved up for as a teenager working at Radio Shack, a detail that underscores his appreciation for design that melds function and form. Honoring Separation While Expanding Possibility Unlike many contemporary remodels where walls are opened up to create expansive living spaces, this project took a more restrained approach. The client valued the defined rooms of the original plan and wanted to preserve as much wall space as possible for displaying his large-format underwater photography. The emphasis was not on dramatic spatial reinvention, but on thoughtful refinements. Klopf Architecture shaped a gallery-like backdrop while also expanding the primary suite, modernizing materials and fixtures throughout the home, and improving the functionality and layout of the kitchen. The finished home feels at once timeless and renewed, an Eichler that continues to inspire while fully supporting the lifestyle of its present-day owner. A major turning point came mid-design. The original project brief had not included an addition, but as the reconfiguration of the primary bedroom and bath unfolded, it became clear that an expansion was the best approach to achieve the client’s vision of a more spacious suite. Fortunately, the adjustment came at a stage when revisions were still manageable and was integrated seamlessly, showing how thoughtful course corrections can strengthen a project rather than hinder it. Navigating Challenges With Precision The design development included multiple conceptual rounds, balancing preservation with subtle expansion. During construction, an existing post previously thought to be load-bearing turned out not to be. The structural engineer was able to pivot quickly, and both the post and the cross beam that had been intended to replace it could be omitted, allowing the original rhythm of the Eichler beam bays to be preserved. Sustainability was not just a checklist item, but a way to align the home with the client’s values of simplicity, efficiency, and long-term functionality. R-38 roof insulation reduced energy usage, solar panels with battery storage provided independence and resilience, and passive comfort strategies eliminated the need forenergy-intensive air conditioning. An electric vehicle charger and an on-demand hot water recirculation system (with call buttons as opposed to having constant circulation) add to the home’s long-term efficiency factors. Together, these moves created a home that is quieter, more comfortable, and better equipped for the future, qualities that supported the client’s pragmatic approach to design and living lightly. Details That Respect the Eichler DNA The remodel carries forward the Eichler’s original spirit while introducing new layers of modern livability. Originally, the house was approached along a deep, narrow walk, with the garage on one side and the house on the other, leaving the front door tucked far back within this chasm-like space. By pulling the entry forward, the design reshaped the arrival experience, creating a clearer threshold and a natural drop-off zone for bags, shoes, and keys. This shift also made room for a custom bench at the entry that extends seamlessly through the glass sidelight. The bench and drop-off zone now work together as a single, integrated sequence that supports everyday living while offering a tactile reminder of Eichler’s philosophy of connectedness. At the client’s request, Klopf reintroduced a classic Eichler gesture by extending the exterior siding into the entry and living room. The detail reinforces a sense of indoor/outdoor continuity while providing a subtle architectural surface that allows the client’s photography to take visual precedence. The signature concrete masonry wall at the front was reconstructed using blocks sourced to match the originals, now strengthened with rebar for seismic resilience while maintaining a private outdoor courtyard, visually extending the kitchen outward. A decorative trellis element, a detail borrowed from a neighboring Eichler, restores a familiar mid-century modern architectural motif. At the courtyard entry door, a custom etched glass sidelight with an ocean-themed design featuring kelp and jellyfish serves as a subtle homage to the client’s passion for deep-sea diving. Landscaping became an integral part of the overall transformation. The homeowner engaged landscape architect Randi Johnsen of Third Nature Studio to shape a series of calm, inviting outdoor rooms that read as a natural extension of the interiors. While technically outside of the core construction scope, the landscape design proved central to achieving a sense of completeness and connectedness across the property. Such whole-property considerations often emerge as design ideas take shape, underscoring the importance of flexibility in planning and budgeting, as well as close collaboration among the design team starting early in the process. The Value of Evolving Scope As with many custom residential projects, the scope evolved during the design process. What began as a targeted remodel grew to include a new/expanded primary suite, a rebuilt CMU patio wall for strength and longevity, and a solar panel array and battery storage for energy resilience and carbon-reduction. Each thoughtful decision represented a conscious investment in the home’s performance and character, rather than a cost overrun. The result was a project delivered on schedule, tailored precisely to the client’s lifestyle, and positioned to add long-term value both functionally and aesthetically. By embracing scope evolution as an opportunity rather than a challenge, and relying on good design paired with transparent communication, this remodel demonstrates how Eichler homes can be adapted for contemporary living without erasing their DNA. Klopf Architecture project team: John Klopf, AIA, and Klara Kevane, Elise Webb and Nicholas LaNasa. Contractor: Golden Cove Construction Landscape Design: Third Nature Studio Structural Engineer: Daniel Bastiao Design Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2024 Location: Sunnyvale, CA

Experience the pinnacle of luxury with this state-of-the-art kitchen renovation tailored for discerning homeowners in Nashville. This space has been masterfully transformed into a modern culinary paradise, featuring a spacious kitchen island that not only serves as a chic bar area, ideal for entertaining, but also stands as a focal point for casual dining. The island is beautifully accentuated by stylish pendant lights by Visual Comfort, which provide both ambiance and functional lighting, perfectly enhancing the contemporary vibe. Each detail in this kitchen has been meticulously upgraded to the highest standards. The sleek new cabinetry, offering ample storage and a clean aesthetic, is perfectly complemented by the stunning backsplash featuring designer tiles from Artistic Tile, adding a touch of artistic sophistication. Cambria countertops grace the surfaces with their luxurious finish and durability, blending seamlessly with the high-end kitchen fixtures from Blanco, known for their exceptional design and usability. Top-of-the-line appliances from Cafe Appliances enhance the kitchen’s functionality, making it not only a beautiful space but also highly practical for both everyday cooking and special gatherings. These appliances integrate effortlessly into the modern interior design, which showcases luxurious materials and finishes throughout. This renovation is a perfect example of high-rise condo living at its finest, embodying a blend of sophistication, functionality, and cutting-edge design. Whether you are a culinary enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of a well-designed space, this kitchen is crafted to impress and inspire. Photography by Allison Elefante Interior Design by Sara Ray Interior Design

Tiered of the looking out at a shabby brown lawn in their front yard and unwilling to use the water to keep it green these homeowners decided to go for something different. The wife in this household worked from home and was motivated to have a better view from her home office. As an enthusiastic bird watcher, I wanted to give her a view that included happy birds fluttering about. The husband was annoyed by the fact that some of the neighbors allowed their dogs to use this corner lot a toilet without having the curtesy of cleaning up after them. My job was to create a low water landscape (also known as xeriscape) that attracted birds, bees and butterflies but kept the dogs off. We started with directing down spouts in to catch basins called infiltration swales. These swales capture water storing it in the soil where it can be accessed by plants months after the rains have stopped. Then we integrated primarily California native plants and succulents into the design. Special attention was payed to the water needs of the plants and the ideal growing conditions for each species so that the combination of earthworks and plant choice and placement this landscape can get by with zero supplemental irrigation after the period of establishment this landscape. By incorporating flowering California native plants, native birds and insects flocked to the site in a neighborhood otherwise dominated by lifeless landscapes. By surrounding the garden with decomposed granite and succulents we created a space that was unpleasant and unappealing for dogs to relive themselves while remaining appealing to more human sensibilities. Today this property sits on the corner in a suburban neighborhood of Goleta, California. Hopefully serving as inspiration to take out lawns and build beautiful gardens that work to integrate the man made landscape with the natural ecosystem in which it is built.

It begins with a 3 ft. X 7 ft. island with white panel cabinets, brushed nickel hardware and Granite countertop. For my personal projects, I prefer Granite over Quartz for kitchen countertops. Quartz contains 92% aggregate and 8% high-grade epoxies. Sometimes setting a hot pan or plate on a Quartz counter will leave a permanent mark. Three pendant lights over the island provide the right design touch, while several recessed lights and under-cabinet lighting throughout adds to the ambience. And as always, all lights are on dimmers. One side of the island allows comfortable seating for four, while the other side boasts spacious storage with 2 deep drawers and 5 cabinets, as well as two key appliances. The photo above shows how food preparation traffic moves from the fridge to island to range and finally sink and dishwasher. The golden triangle in action! An Avallon beverage center is located on the “cold foods” side of the island. This stainless-steel under-counter split-zone refrigerator is sure to please every wine and beer enthusiast. The left side is cooled to 58 degrees for wine, while the right side cools down to 34 degrees for beer. Both sides feature pull-out shelves, and each side is lockable for safety. Moving down to the “warm foods” side of the island is a Thermador microwave drawer, which has easy access from above. We also chose Thermador for our fridge, ovens, gas range and dishwasher.

Tiered of the looking out at a shabby brown lawn in their front yard and unwilling to use the water to keep it green these homeowners decided to go for something different. The wife in this household worked from home and was motivated to have a better view from her home office. As an enthusiastic bird watcher, I wanted to give her a view that included happy birds fluttering about. The husband was annoyed by the fact that some of the neighbors allowed their dogs to use this corner lot a toilet without having the curtesy of cleaning up after them. My job was to create a low water landscape (also known as xeriscape) that attracted birds, bees and butterflies but kept the dogs off. We started with directing down spouts in to catch basins called infiltration swales. These swales capture water storing it in the soil where it can be accessed by plants months after the rains have stopped. Then we integrated primarily California native plants and succulents into the design. Special attention was payed to the water needs of the plants and the ideal growing conditions for each species so that the combination of earthworks and plant choice and placement this landscape can get by with zero supplemental irrigation after the period of establishment this landscape. By incorporating flowering California native plants, native birds and insects flocked to the site in a neighborhood otherwise dominated by lifeless landscapes. By surrounding the garden with decomposed granite and succulents we created a space that was unpleasant and unappealing for dogs to relive themselves while remaining appealing to more human sensibilities. Today this property sits on the corner in a suburban neighborhood of Goleta, California. Hopefully serving as inspiration to take out lawns and build beautiful gardens that work to integrate the man made landscape with the natural ecosystem in which it is built.