The title pretty much sums it all up ” The Most EPIC Backyard EVER” this project is EPIC EPIC EPIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It’s a backyard full of dreams all which have come true. Speechless……..? Yup The project consisted of the installation of porcelain patio with upper fire pit area and hot tub at far end of patio. Upper patio surface and overlay of existing concrete pad was done in Abbotsford porcelain tile (24″x24″) in ‘Coffee Cream’ and porcelain ‘wood look’ tile in ‘Beachwood’. The lower patio area is constructed of natural irregular flagstone with the lower retaining walls being natural limestone boulders. Upper walls, fire pit, and upper steps were constructed of masonry faced with Piedmont natural stone veneer and capped with Chateau Limestone. Steps at the lower side are solid treads natural stone treads that match the existing steps at water feature and Chateau Limestone steps. Diving rock is a large natural stone slab similar to steps and bridge at the waterfall. Another boulder retaining wall was constructed along the path. The path leads to another set of natural stone steps leading to a circular natural flagstone patio with natural stone fire pit as well. Landscape lighting around new pool area featuring the FX luxor system. Included in the lighting system was 34 (under cap) step and wall lights (Zoning, Dimming, and Color Changing), 14 path lights (Zoning and Dimming) on paths as well as natural stone and solid steps and up lights on trees. FX Luxor system to connect with existing lighting system. This is an additional phase to a project that originally featured a large ecosystem pond with wetland filtration, stone steppers and bubbling urns throughout. The pond has a zero edge waterfall which enters a short stream before dumping into a massive beautiful waterfall. Natural stone steps lead upwards with a large natural stone bridge straddling the stream up to the pond and deck area. Truly EPIC!

On the exterior, the desire was to weave the home into the fabric of the community, all while paying special attention to meld the footprint of the house into a workable clean, open, and spacious interior free of clutter and saturated in natural light to meet the owner’s simple but yet tasteful lifestyle. The utilization of natural light all while bringing nature’s canvas into the spaces provides a sense of harmony. Light, shadow and texture bathe each space creating atmosphere, always changing, and blurring the boundaries between the indoor and outdoor space. Color abounds as nature paints the walls. Though they are all white hues of the spectrum, the natural light saturates and glows, all while being reflected off of the beautiful forms and surfaces. Total emersion of the senses engulf the user, greeting them with an ever changing environment. Style gives way to natural beauty and the home is neither of the past or future, rather it lives in the moment. Stable, grounded and unpretentious the home is understated yet powerful. The environment encourages exploration and an awakening of inner being dispelling convention and accepted norms. The home encourages mediation embracing principals associated with silent illumination. If there was one factor above all that guided the design it would be found in a word, truth. Experience the delight of the creator and enjoy these photos.

The title pretty much sums it all up ” The Most EPIC Backyard EVER” this project is EPIC EPIC EPIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It’s a backyard full of dreams all which have come true. Speechless……..? Yup The project consisted of the installation of porcelain patio with upper fire pit area and hot tub at far end of patio. Upper patio surface and overlay of existing concrete pad was done in Abbotsford porcelain tile (24″x24″) in ‘Coffee Cream’ and porcelain ‘wood look’ tile in ‘Beachwood’. The lower patio area is constructed of natural irregular flagstone with the lower retaining walls being natural limestone boulders. Upper walls, fire pit, and upper steps were constructed of masonry faced with Piedmont natural stone veneer and capped with Chateau Limestone. Steps at the lower side are solid treads natural stone treads that match the existing steps at water feature and Chateau Limestone steps. Diving rock is a large natural stone slab similar to steps and bridge at the waterfall. Another boulder retaining wall was constructed along the path. The path leads to another set of natural stone steps leading to a circular natural flagstone patio with natural stone fire pit as well. Landscape lighting around new pool area featuring the FX luxor system. Included in the lighting system was 34 (under cap) step and wall lights (Zoning, Dimming, and Color Changing), 14 path lights (Zoning and Dimming) on paths as well as natural stone and solid steps and up lights on trees. FX Luxor system to connect with existing lighting system. This is an additional phase to a project that originally featured a large ecosystem pond with wetland filtration, stone steppers and bubbling urns throughout. The pond has a zero edge waterfall which enters a short stream before dumping into a massive beautiful waterfall. Natural stone steps lead upwards with a large natural stone bridge straddling the stream up to the pond and deck area. Truly EPIC!

The title pretty much sums it all up ” The Most EPIC Backyard EVER” this project is EPIC EPIC EPIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It’s a backyard full of dreams all which have come true. Speechless……..? Yup The project consisted of the installation of porcelain patio with upper fire pit area and hot tub at far end of patio. Upper patio surface and overlay of existing concrete pad was done in Abbotsford porcelain tile (24″x24″) in ‘Coffee Cream’ and porcelain ‘wood look’ tile in ‘Beachwood’. The lower patio area is constructed of natural irregular flagstone with the lower retaining walls being natural limestone boulders. Upper walls, fire pit, and upper steps were constructed of masonry faced with Piedmont natural stone veneer and capped with Chateau Limestone. Steps at the lower side are solid treads natural stone treads that match the existing steps at water feature and Chateau Limestone steps. Diving rock is a large natural stone slab similar to steps and bridge at the waterfall. Another boulder retaining wall was constructed along the path. The path leads to another set of natural stone steps leading to a circular natural flagstone patio with natural stone fire pit as well. Landscape lighting around new pool area featuring the FX luxor system. Included in the lighting system was 34 (under cap) step and wall lights (Zoning, Dimming, and Color Changing), 14 path lights (Zoning and Dimming) on paths as well as natural stone and solid steps and up lights on trees. FX Luxor system to connect with existing lighting system. This is an additional phase to a project that originally featured a large ecosystem pond with wetland filtration, stone steppers and bubbling urns throughout. The pond has a zero edge waterfall which enters a short stream before dumping into a massive beautiful waterfall. Natural stone steps lead upwards with a large natural stone bridge straddling the stream up to the pond and deck area. Truly EPIC!

Step into a world where nature's beauty takes center stage, captivating your senses and welcoming you home to a symphony of serenity. Our Whidbey Island Oasis embraces your senses with a mesmerizing front yard pond, cascading waterfall, and an enchanting bridge that intertwine to create a picturesque retreat visible from both within and outside your abode. Nestled on the captivating landscape of Whidbey Island, this oasis transcends the ordinary, transporting you to a haven of tranquility. The front yard pond sparkles as the heart of this retreat, reflecting the ever-changing sky and inviting the surrounding greenery to dance upon its surface. A gentle waterfall completes this scene, where water gracefully descends, whispering tales of nature's elegance as it joins the pond below. The soothing sound of flowing water becomes the backdrop of your everyday life, a constant reminder of the beauty that surrounds you. Spanning the water, an enchanting bridge connects the realms of your front yard oasis. Designed not just for functionality, but also for aesthetics, the bridge offers an artistic touch that draws the eye and beckons you to cross into a space where time seems to slow down. Imagine arriving home to this natural sanctuary, greeted by the sight of water dancing, sunlight glinting off the pond, and the bridge inviting you to explore. From the inside, every glance out the window reveals a living tableau of serenity that evolves with the passing moments. Key Highlights: Front Yard Paradise: A captivating front yard pond becomes the centerpiece of your outdoor haven. Cascading Elegance: A gentle waterfall adds motion and grace to the landscape. Bridge to Tranquility: An enchanting bridge connects your senses to nature's beauty. Nature-Infused Living: The oasis is viewable from indoors, enhancing your daily life. Indulge in the embrace of nature's elegance as you cross the bridge between the everyday and the extraordinary. The Whidbey Island Oasis is more than just a landscape design; it's an invitation to rediscover the harmony between your home and the natural world. Experience Everyday Enchantment. Elevate Your Whidbey Island Lifestyle.

Photo of a rustic hillside landscaping in Toronto.

Step into a world where nature's beauty takes center stage, captivating your senses and welcoming you home to a symphony of serenity. Our Whidbey Island Oasis embraces your senses with a mesmerizing front yard pond, cascading waterfall, and an enchanting bridge that intertwine to create a picturesque retreat visible from both within and outside your abode. Nestled on the captivating landscape of Whidbey Island, this oasis transcends the ordinary, transporting you to a haven of tranquility. The front yard pond sparkles as the heart of this retreat, reflecting the ever-changing sky and inviting the surrounding greenery to dance upon its surface. A gentle waterfall completes this scene, where water gracefully descends, whispering tales of nature's elegance as it joins the pond below. The soothing sound of flowing water becomes the backdrop of your everyday life, a constant reminder of the beauty that surrounds you. Spanning the water, an enchanting bridge connects the realms of your front yard oasis. Designed not just for functionality, but also for aesthetics, the bridge offers an artistic touch that draws the eye and beckons you to cross into a space where time seems to slow down. Imagine arriving home to this natural sanctuary, greeted by the sight of water dancing, sunlight glinting off the pond, and the bridge inviting you to explore. From the inside, every glance out the window reveals a living tableau of serenity that evolves with the passing moments. Key Highlights: Front Yard Paradise: A captivating front yard pond becomes the centerpiece of your outdoor haven. Cascading Elegance: A gentle waterfall adds motion and grace to the landscape. Bridge to Tranquility: An enchanting bridge connects your senses to nature's beauty. Nature-Infused Living: The oasis is viewable from indoors, enhancing your daily life. Indulge in the embrace of nature's elegance as you cross the bridge between the everyday and the extraordinary. The Whidbey Island Oasis is more than just a landscape design; it's an invitation to rediscover the harmony between your home and the natural world. Experience Everyday Enchantment. Elevate Your Whidbey Island Lifestyle.

Designer: Astro Design Centre, Ottawa Canada Photos: JVL Photography The theme for this design was clean lines, symmetry and harmony. They played up the natural beauty surrounding the house, by enhancing the natural light and introducing new textures that would give the space a modern look. Being centred in a wooden lot, we chose to carry natural materials like walnut, marble and slate into the room. However, to add drama and contrast, the elements are juxtaposed with industrial lighting, square high-polished fixtures and a factory-style barn door.

One of the most amazing moments that can be seen in nature is an act of creating a new thing. When I stare at the calmness of the sea I know that whirls from which waves are born are hidden beneath the surface. Although the sea is serene, great powers are working in places that cannot be seen to the naked eye.

Nimanoe is a tribute to the good life. A tale about travel, taste, passion and purpose. You can see it in the beautiful, expansive ensuite bedrooms, and the cozy, pacifying lounges and library. You can feel it in the refined furnishings, the statement pieces of art and considered spa-like spaces that beckon you in for a soothing reboot. You can hear it in the Sonos surround sound system that reaches every room, every corner of the garden, into the mountain air and beyond. You can taste it in the state-of-the-art kitchen and languid dining spaces – both indoor and outdoor. Nimanoe’s sophistication on the senses gives you license to bring your own version of the good life to fruition, surrounded by all of your favourite people. What we love! The outdoor shower adjacent the spa and sauna space, where the delicious monsters and ferns perfect the tropical paradise ambience. Nimanoe is an ideal home to work from too. With those inspirational views and tranquil sounds of the abounding nature you’ll find yourself inspired to produce that long-awaited masterpiece in the secluded office. The views of the ocean, Chapman’s Peak, Cape Point Vineyards and surrounding mountain ranges are nothing short of spectacular and ever-changing throughout the day. What you need to know… Nimanoe offers daily housekeeping, as well as the food of fabulous chef, Natalie, who’ll whip up some delicious Ottolenghi dishes, and extraordinary desserts. Silvermine’s hiking trails are on the doorstep. Just a gentle climb up into the mountain for some incredible views and lovely sunset spots. For a pint or two of a delicious craft beer, Aegir Brewery is no more than a 5-minute drive away, where the fabulous Italian eatery, Limoncello also sits, beneath the milkwoods. The property is situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac and is totally secure, with a high-tech, top of the range alarm and security system – for that extra peace of mind. It also runs off a solar-system so does not feel the impact of power outages. Nimanoe is only a 5-minute drive to Noordehoek for long walks and swims. You also have the use of the property’s SUP and surf boards. Noordhoek Village is only a 5-minute drive away from the property where Chef Franck Dangereux’s Foodbarn Restaurant is, together with coffee roasters, decadent ice-cream makers, a pub and a playground, a delicatessen, souvenir shops and a yoga studio too.

This pool tucks beautifully into a small sloping side yard convenient to kitchen and basement walkouts. The pool's 3" zero edge spill wall faces the house for full dramatic effect, while the original patio of tumbled pavers is tied into the new flagstone patio with ledgerock retaining walls and steps. The integral teardrop spa faces an elevated ledgerock feature wall with four sheer descent waterfalls. The premium dark grey Armourcoat interior softly complements the surrounding plantings and ever changing colours of nature. (12 x 24, concrete zero edge)

Eckersley Garden Architecture http://www.e-ga.com.au Badger dry stone walling http://www.ecooutdoor.com.au/walling/dry-stone/badger Myrtle split stone flooring http://www.ecooutdoor.com.au/flooring/split-stone/myrtle Eckersley Garden Architecture | Eco Outdoor | Badger walling | Myrtle flooring | livelifeoutdoors | Outdoor Design | Natural stone flooring + walling | Garden design | Outdoor paving | Outdoor design inspiration | Outdoor style | Outdoor ideas | Luxury homes | Paving ideas | Garden ideas | Natural pool ideas | Patio ideas | Indoor tiling ideas | Outdoor tiles | split stone flooring | Drystone walling | Stone walling | stone wall cladding

Photo Credit: Andy Beasley Exposed brick walls, dark joinery and contrasting textures and soft furnishings allows this space to have a lovely homely feel while still being a contemporary family home. A wood burning fire in the sitting area creates a toasty corner, even in an open plan room. A multi use space for entertaining and family life this project is still a hit, and a favourite of ours and the public. The space can be opened up to bring the outside, in. By opening up the huge sliding glazed doors onto the patio you create an even larger space where life can spill out into the garden, and equally lets nature into the home with a breath of fresh air. The pendant lights above the table from John Lewis – William Bottle Glass Pendants from the Croft collection £130 each. These are such simple lights with a hint of detail and a slightly industrial feel ties in beautifully with the metal star table lamp on the bespoke side table.

With a lengthy list of ideas about how to transform their backyard, the clients were excited to see what we could do. Existing features on site needed to be updated and in-cooperated within the design. The view from each angle of the property was already outstanding and we didn't want the design to feel out of place. We had to make the grade changes work to our advantage, each separate space had to have a purpose. The client wanted to use the property for charity events, so a large flat turf area was constructed at the back of the property, perfect for setting up tables, chairs and a stage if needed. It also created the perfect look out point into the back of the property, dropping off into a ravine. A lot of focus throughout the project was the plant selection. With a large amount of garden beds, we wanted to maintain a clean and formal look, while still offering seasonal interest. We did this by edging the beds with boxwoods, adding white hydrangeas throughout the beds for constant colour, and subtle pops of purple and yellow. This along with the already breathtaking natural backdrop of the space, is more than enough to make this project stand out. Photographer: Jason Hartog Photography

DuChateau Floors. French oak hardwood floors. Atelier Series Driftwood Natural.
Minimalist open concept kitchen photo in Melbourne with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops and mirror backsplash

This beautiful North Vancouver home belongs to a nature-loving and health-conscious couple, Emma and Vince (names changed), their two young children, and their dog, Jasper. When they contacted us about renovating and furnishing their kitchen and family room, we walked in and saw a world of potential waiting to be uncovered. Before: Larkhall Crescent Home: Like many original North Vancouver homes, the interior was definitely dated. We encountered late ‘80s finishes in powder pink and teal green, old carpet, and a kitchen that wasn’t maximized to suit this family’s modern-day lifestyle. However, the size of the rooms offered us a ton of space with which to get creative. Knowing our clients’ love of cooking, need for work spaces (Emma and Vince both work remotely), and growing family, we developed a design concept that would increase usable space, optimize storage, and create intimacy in this large area. As for the style, we were inspired by their European roots, inventing a new and modern take on “Belgian Farmhouse” style. Now, the home is truly one-of-a-kind. After: Warm & Cozy Family Room: Fresh, bright, and comfortable, this living area has been transformed! We started with the fireplace as a focal point, selecting aged brick tiles for added texture and a crisp wood mantle. The taupe-coloured sectional infuses the room with visual warmth and serves the added purpose of separating the family room from the kitchen. Emma and Vince were also keen on using non-toxic materials in their home, and we were happy to oblige. To meet their needs, we sourced natural wood elements and sought out Canadian-made products - that adhere to high health standards - whenever possible. Look closer at the elements of this space, and you will find this stunning, honeycomb-patterned rug in earthy gold, beige, and charcoal tones. It’s plush to the touch and full of visual texture that brings this room’s colour palette together. We sourced these two-tone chairs with caning, petrified wood side table, black sconces, and botanical prints in greyscale from local artist, Heather Johnston. We topped off the space with this dark wood and rattan console that offers storage facing the kitchen and presents an opportunity to display cherished items. The result is a cozy lounging space brimming with comfort and functionality. It’s perfect for enjoying quality family time, or Emma can simply slide the coffee table away to make room for her morning yoga practice. Now, let’s turn around and give some attention to the kitchen. Do you remember what the original kitchen looked like? If not, scroll back up, because the transformation is shocking… Moody & Welcoming Kitchen for Healthy Living: This kitchen looks very different from how it started, right? Though we didn’t touch any walls, the kitchen has almost doubled in usable space! We created a long, extended island with storage, an outlet for small appliances, and seating for comfortable prep, after-school snacking, or mingling among friends. On the other side of the island, the family has even more storage and an integrated dishwasher within easy reach of the sink, perfect for quick clean-up. From this angle, you can also see the expansive custom Shaker cabinetry in white and the integrated double ovens. These facilitate their cooking experience and gave us the opportunity to add an additional surprise… A coffee garage station and more hidden storage! Keeping these items located along the perimeter allows them to be accessed by the family or their guests without someone getting under the cook’s feet. These are the little details that make everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Moving deeper into the kitchen, the seamless induction cooktop topped with a freestanding concealed hood fan commands attention in a soft yet prominent way. The natural wood accent mirrors the fireplace mantle, and the choice of off-black wood-grain cabinets not only continues our black-and-white colour palette but adds a sense of depth and contrast. The corner sink is located to the right and perfectly positioned with a view of their thriving backyard. To invite more of this family’s character into the space, we mixed metals for interest — matte black, dark pewter, and warm brass — and created open shelves in white oak for their plants and decor. You can also glimpse the tumbled edge of the backsplash tile, which echoes the rustic brick of the fireplace. It adds that farmhouse charm while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Last but not least, we designed this dining banquette in the bay window (with integrated bench storage, of course), where the family can share a meal together, the kids can do homework, or Emma and Vince can work and enjoy a change of scenery from their offices. Like the other spaces in the home, it was designed to be beautiful, multi-functional, and long-lasting. Praise from Our Clients: It is clear that we love this home, but what did our clients have to say? “Lori is a visionary and masters execution to the finest detail all at the same time. When she first met us to know more about who we are and how we live, she could right away envision how we could use the space in our kitchen and living room…The results exceeded our expectations. Lori and her team were also a delight to work with — coordination with all the trades, fast problem-solving, regular updates, professional and friendly attitude of her entire team — made it the dream team. Thank you SHD for making our space so beautiful!” In turn, we are so grateful for this family’s trust, their open communication, and for being wonderful people with whom to work. (So, thank you!)

In nature we find everything. Every shade — from dark green to magenta to off-white. Every structure — from smooth to rough to glossy. Perfection and imperfection. And each, single element of nature is without its equal. Just like you, and me.

Contemporary open concept living room and dining room with neutral earth inspires stone like the wood dining room table and stump side table as well as natural stacked stone on the walls.

On the exterior, the desire was to weave the home into the fabric of the community, all while paying special attention to meld the footprint of the house into a workable clean, open, and spacious interior free of clutter and saturated in natural light to meet the owner’s simple but yet tasteful lifestyle. The utilization of natural light all while bringing nature’s canvas into the spaces provides a sense of harmony. Light, shadow and texture bathe each space creating atmosphere, always changing, and blurring the boundaries between the indoor and outdoor space. Color abounds as nature paints the walls. Though they are all white hues of the spectrum, the natural light saturates and glows, all while being reflected off of the beautiful forms and surfaces. Total emersion of the senses engulf the user, greeting them with an ever changing environment. Style gives way to natural beauty and the home is neither of the past or future, rather it lives in the moment. Stable, grounded and unpretentious the home is understated yet powerful. The environment encourages exploration and an awakening of inner being dispelling convention and accepted norms. The home encourages mediation embracing principals associated with silent illumination. If there was one factor above all that guided the design it would be found in a word, truth. Experience the delight of the creator and enjoy these photos.