This design is in a house that almost didn’t happen. After two decades of cherished memories within its walls, the decision to sell their comfortable, albeit aging, home and embark on the ambitious journey of building their dream house felt like a natural progression for the homeowners.. Their current house, a testament to years of family life, had served them well, but the vision of a custom-built sanctuary, tailored to their every desire, had long captured their imaginations. With floor plans finalized and the lot secured, they confidently listed their established home, anticipating a smooth transition to their future home. However, the real estate market, it seemed, had other plans. Almost immediately after their listing went live, a wave of instability swept through the local market. Multiple offers, which initially seemed promising, began to unravel for various reasons, leaving the homeowners in a state of mounting frustration and doubt. Each failed negotiation chipped away at their optimism, leading them to confide in their builder that they were seriously considering withdrawing from the new house project altogether. It felt as though their dream was slipping through their fingers, a beautiful vision that might remain just that – a dream. Just as they were steeling themselves to pull their current home off the market, a ray of hope emerged. A remarkable buyer, seemingly out of nowhere, submitted a robust and appealing offer. The timing was uncanny, a lifeline thrown at the eleventh hour. With the offer now ratified and the wheels of their existing home's sale finally turning, the couple’s focus shifted back to their dream home. The builders, who had patiently weathered their wavering commitment, were now on track to complete the project. And so, in May of 2025, the keys to their meticulously crafted dream home were finally handed over. The following month, the homeowners joyfully moved into their new sanctuary, a testament to their perseverance and the unexpected turn of events that ultimately made their vision a reality.

This design is in a house that almost didn’t happen. After two decades of cherished memories within its walls, the decision to sell their comfortable, albeit aging, home and embark on the ambitious journey of building their dream house felt like a natural progression for the homeowners.. Their current house, a testament to years of family life, had served them well, but the vision of a custom-built sanctuary, tailored to their every desire, had long captured their imaginations. With floor plans finalized and the lot secured, they confidently listed their established home, anticipating a smooth transition to their future home. However, the real estate market, it seemed, had other plans. Almost immediately after their listing went live, a wave of instability swept through the local market. Multiple offers, which initially seemed promising, began to unravel for various reasons, leaving the homeowners in a state of mounting frustration and doubt. Each failed negotiation chipped away at their optimism, leading them to confide in their builder that they were seriously considering withdrawing from the new house project altogether. It felt as though their dream was slipping through their fingers, a beautiful vision that might remain just that – a dream. Just as they were steeling themselves to pull their current home off the market, a ray of hope emerged. A remarkable buyer, seemingly out of nowhere, submitted a robust and appealing offer. The timing was uncanny, a lifeline thrown at the eleventh hour. With the offer now ratified and the wheels of their existing home's sale finally turning, the couple’s focus shifted back to their dream home. The builders, who had patiently weathered their wavering commitment, were now on track to complete the project. And so, in May of 2025, the keys to their meticulously crafted dream home were finally handed over. The following month, the homeowners joyfully moved into their new sanctuary, a testament to their perseverance and the unexpected turn of events that ultimately made their vision a reality.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This design is in a house that almost didn’t happen. After two decades of cherished memories within its walls, the decision to sell their comfortable, albeit aging, home and embark on the ambitious journey of building their dream house felt like a natural progression for the homeowners.. Their current house, a testament to years of family life, had served them well, but the vision of a custom-built sanctuary, tailored to their every desire, had long captured their imaginations. With floor plans finalized and the lot secured, they confidently listed their established home, anticipating a smooth transition to their future home. However, the real estate market, it seemed, had other plans. Almost immediately after their listing went live, a wave of instability swept through the local market. Multiple offers, which initially seemed promising, began to unravel for various reasons, leaving the homeowners in a state of mounting frustration and doubt. Each failed negotiation chipped away at their optimism, leading them to confide in their builder that they were seriously considering withdrawing from the new house project altogether. It felt as though their dream was slipping through their fingers, a beautiful vision that might remain just that – a dream. Just as they were steeling themselves to pull their current home off the market, a ray of hope emerged. A remarkable buyer, seemingly out of nowhere, submitted a robust and appealing offer. The timing was uncanny, a lifeline thrown at the eleventh hour. With the offer now ratified and the wheels of their existing home's sale finally turning, the couple’s focus shifted back to their dream home. The builders, who had patiently weathered their wavering commitment, were now on track to complete the project. And so, in May of 2025, the keys to their meticulously crafted dream home were finally handed over. The following month, the homeowners joyfully moved into their new sanctuary, a testament to their perseverance and the unexpected turn of events that ultimately made their vision a reality.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This design is in a house that almost didn’t happen. After two decades of cherished memories within its walls, the decision to sell their comfortable, albeit aging, home and embark on the ambitious journey of building their dream house felt like a natural progression for the homeowners.. Their current house, a testament to years of family life, had served them well, but the vision of a custom-built sanctuary, tailored to their every desire, had long captured their imaginations. With floor plans finalized and the lot secured, they confidently listed their established home, anticipating a smooth transition to their future home. However, the real estate market, it seemed, had other plans. Almost immediately after their listing went live, a wave of instability swept through the local market. Multiple offers, which initially seemed promising, began to unravel for various reasons, leaving the homeowners in a state of mounting frustration and doubt. Each failed negotiation chipped away at their optimism, leading them to confide in their builder that they were seriously considering withdrawing from the new house project altogether. It felt as though their dream was slipping through their fingers, a beautiful vision that might remain just that – a dream. Just as they were steeling themselves to pull their current home off the market, a ray of hope emerged. A remarkable buyer, seemingly out of nowhere, submitted a robust and appealing offer. The timing was uncanny, a lifeline thrown at the eleventh hour. With the offer now ratified and the wheels of their existing home's sale finally turning, the couple’s focus shifted back to their dream home. The builders, who had patiently weathered their wavering commitment, were now on track to complete the project. And so, in May of 2025, the keys to their meticulously crafted dream home were finally handed over. The following month, the homeowners joyfully moved into their new sanctuary, a testament to their perseverance and the unexpected turn of events that ultimately made their vision a reality.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This design is in a house that almost didn’t happen. After two decades of cherished memories within its walls, the decision to sell their comfortable, albeit aging, home and embark on the ambitious journey of building their dream house felt like a natural progression for the homeowners.. Their current house, a testament to years of family life, had served them well, but the vision of a custom-built sanctuary, tailored to their every desire, had long captured their imaginations. With floor plans finalized and the lot secured, they confidently listed their established home, anticipating a smooth transition to their future home. However, the real estate market, it seemed, had other plans. Almost immediately after their listing went live, a wave of instability swept through the local market. Multiple offers, which initially seemed promising, began to unravel for various reasons, leaving the homeowners in a state of mounting frustration and doubt. Each failed negotiation chipped away at their optimism, leading them to confide in their builder that they were seriously considering withdrawing from the new house project altogether. It felt as though their dream was slipping through their fingers, a beautiful vision that might remain just that – a dream. Just as they were steeling themselves to pull their current home off the market, a ray of hope emerged. A remarkable buyer, seemingly out of nowhere, submitted a robust and appealing offer. The timing was uncanny, a lifeline thrown at the eleventh hour. With the offer now ratified and the wheels of their existing home's sale finally turning, the couple’s focus shifted back to their dream home. The builders, who had patiently weathered their wavering commitment, were now on track to complete the project. And so, in May of 2025, the keys to their meticulously crafted dream home were finally handed over. The following month, the homeowners joyfully moved into their new sanctuary, a testament to their perseverance and the unexpected turn of events that ultimately made their vision a reality.

This design is in a house that almost didn’t happen. After two decades of cherished memories within its walls, the decision to sell their comfortable, albeit aging, home and embark on the ambitious journey of building their dream house felt like a natural progression for the homeowners.. Their current house, a testament to years of family life, had served them well, but the vision of a custom-built sanctuary, tailored to their every desire, had long captured their imaginations. With floor plans finalized and the lot secured, they confidently listed their established home, anticipating a smooth transition to their future home. However, the real estate market, it seemed, had other plans. Almost immediately after their listing went live, a wave of instability swept through the local market. Multiple offers, which initially seemed promising, began to unravel for various reasons, leaving the homeowners in a state of mounting frustration and doubt. Each failed negotiation chipped away at their optimism, leading them to confide in their builder that they were seriously considering withdrawing from the new house project altogether. It felt as though their dream was slipping through their fingers, a beautiful vision that might remain just that – a dream. Just as they were steeling themselves to pull their current home off the market, a ray of hope emerged. A remarkable buyer, seemingly out of nowhere, submitted a robust and appealing offer. The timing was uncanny, a lifeline thrown at the eleventh hour. With the offer now ratified and the wheels of their existing home's sale finally turning, the couple’s focus shifted back to their dream home. The builders, who had patiently weathered their wavering commitment, were now on track to complete the project. And so, in May of 2025, the keys to their meticulously crafted dream home were finally handed over. The following month, the homeowners joyfully moved into their new sanctuary, a testament to their perseverance and the unexpected turn of events that ultimately made their vision a reality.

This design is in a house that almost didn’t happen. After two decades of cherished memories within its walls, the decision to sell their comfortable, albeit aging, home and embark on the ambitious journey of building their dream house felt like a natural progression for the homeowners.. Their current house, a testament to years of family life, had served them well, but the vision of a custom-built sanctuary, tailored to their every desire, had long captured their imaginations. With floor plans finalized and the lot secured, they confidently listed their established home, anticipating a smooth transition to their future home. However, the real estate market, it seemed, had other plans. Almost immediately after their listing went live, a wave of instability swept through the local market. Multiple offers, which initially seemed promising, began to unravel for various reasons, leaving the homeowners in a state of mounting frustration and doubt. Each failed negotiation chipped away at their optimism, leading them to confide in their builder that they were seriously considering withdrawing from the new house project altogether. It felt as though their dream was slipping through their fingers, a beautiful vision that might remain just that – a dream. Just as they were steeling themselves to pull their current home off the market, a ray of hope emerged. A remarkable buyer, seemingly out of nowhere, submitted a robust and appealing offer. The timing was uncanny, a lifeline thrown at the eleventh hour. With the offer now ratified and the wheels of their existing home's sale finally turning, the couple’s focus shifted back to their dream home. The builders, who had patiently weathered their wavering commitment, were now on track to complete the project. And so, in May of 2025, the keys to their meticulously crafted dream home were finally handed over. The following month, the homeowners joyfully moved into their new sanctuary, a testament to their perseverance and the unexpected turn of events that ultimately made their vision a reality.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Residential $60,000-$120,000 Award Level: Silver Project Description: We were contracted by the family to create a master plan for the property. They were experiencing extreme drainage and erosion problems due to the surrounding properties’ drastic grade changes. Erosion had caused the rear lawn to sink in various areas and the existing rear patio spaces were failing. The client wanted to rebuild their patios and walkways, repave their driveway and give their home more visual appeal. Most importantly, they wanted an environmentally friendly solution. Our design solution was to create a rain garden that would slow storm water runoff, allow for percolation, and promote infiltration, while permitting excess clean water to enter the storm drain at the street with slower velocity. The rain garden acts as a temporary holding space that allows the earth to slowly absorb water, rather than overwhelm the nearby storm drain. Our first objective was to conduct a percolation test to determine the amount of clay soil that needed to be removed before reaching the sandy loam layer. A percolation test and storm water calculations were generated to accommodate a 1” rain event. Based on our calculations and the small size of the property, we determined a depth of 18” was necessary for optimal holding capacity. We removed 18” of clay soil until a layer of sandy loam was encountered. Next, the soil was amended with compost and sand to create a highly porous planting media for the basin of the garden. We piped the three existing rear downspouts to the rain garden area to capture for infiltration and alleviate runoff throughout the rear lawn and patio space. We installed an 18” wide over-flow standpipe at a 24” depth into the ground that outlets to a stone swale that carries the water to the property edge. As an added means of holding the maximum amount of water, we designed the standpipe to sit 14” above grade. The height of this standpipe allows this rain garden to capture 14” of water before reaching the overflow capacity. We placed geotextile fabric to help reduce migration of the stones into the soil and aid in the prevention of weeds and erosion. We heavily planted the rain garden to further aid in absorption and to attract local wildlife. A native plant palette of butterfly weed, Panicum, Joe-Pye weed, and asters form a colorful backdrop while the basin was filled with obligate wetland plants such as royal ferns, irises and cardinal flowers. The upper edges in the foreground are planted with Echinacea, Rudbeckia and Monarda, satisfying the local bird community and adding bright seasonal colors. This garden effectively collects and cleanses rainwater while creating a habitat for birds, frogs, and butterflies. Our next challenge was to redesign the existing patios and walkways without increasing impervious surfaces. According to township regulations this property was currently at its maximum capacity, therefore we designed the front and rear patios with a slightly smaller footprint to decrease their existing impervious surfaces. New planting beds were designed throughout the entire property. Plants were chosen that were tolerant of specific site conditions. For the rear yard, we choose a backdrop of witch hazel and hollies to provide an evergreen screen as well as early spring color. We placed hydrangea throughout to add summer color. We planted ostrich fern under the existing spruce tree to create a lush floor. This area became an additional backdrop for the rain garden as well as a screen for the neighboring property. We choose a combination of ‘Blue Star’ juniper and creeping jenny to soften the existing rear wall with creepers. Around the rear patio areas we choose a combination of Liatris, Rudbeckia and ‘Lo and Behold’ butterfly bush. This combination of plants works in harmony with the rain garden and attracts additional butterflies. For the front of the property we worked with an existing Japanese maple that provided dense shade. We choose a shade-tolerant combination of Heuchera, Astilbe, ferns and hostas for this area. We added more hydrangeas to the front foundation of the house to provide lush layering of plant material and visual interest with additional summer blooms. Overall, we were able to exceed the client’s needs and expectations in transforming their property into a colorful paradise that attracts wildlife from season to season. The plant palette provides seasonal interest and the rain garden has successfully decreased storm water runoff. The new hardscape surfaces were designed and built with a slightly smaller footprint to decrease impervious surfaces. This project is a positive example of how all properties, regardless of size, can make an ecological difference by decreasing impervious surfaces and maintaining proper storm water management. Photo Credit: Terren Landscapes

Terren Landscapes http://www.terrenlandscapes.com 2014 PLNA Awards for Landscape Excellence Winner Category: Residential $60,000-$120,000 Award Level: Silver Project Description: We were contracted by the family to create a master plan for the property. They were experiencing extreme drainage and erosion problems due to the surrounding properties’ drastic grade changes. Erosion had caused the rear lawn to sink in various areas and the existing rear patio spaces were failing. The client wanted to rebuild their patios and walkways, repave their driveway and give their home more visual appeal. Most importantly, they wanted an environmentally friendly solution. Our design solution was to create a rain garden that would slow storm water runoff, allow for percolation, and promote infiltration, while permitting excess clean water to enter the storm drain at the street with slower velocity. The rain garden acts as a temporary holding space that allows the earth to slowly absorb water, rather than overwhelm the nearby storm drain. Our first objective was to conduct a percolation test to determine the amount of clay soil that needed to be removed before reaching the sandy loam layer. A percolation test and storm water calculations were generated to accommodate a 1” rain event. Based on our calculations and the small size of the property, we determined a depth of 18” was necessary for optimal holding capacity. We removed 18” of clay soil until a layer of sandy loam was encountered. Next, the soil was amended with compost and sand to create a highly porous planting media for the basin of the garden. We piped the three existing rear downspouts to the rain garden area to capture for infiltration and alleviate runoff throughout the rear lawn and patio space. We installed an 18” wide over-flow standpipe at a 24” depth into the ground that outlets to a stone swale that carries the water to the property edge. As an added means of holding the maximum amount of water, we designed the standpipe to sit 14” above grade. The height of this standpipe allows this rain garden to capture 14” of water before reaching the overflow capacity. We placed geotextile fabric to help reduce migration of the stones into the soil and aid in the prevention of weeds and erosion. We heavily planted the rain garden to further aid in absorption and to attract local wildlife. A native plant palette of butterfly weed, Panicum, Joe-Pye weed, and asters form a colorful backdrop while the basin was filled with obligate wetland plants such as royal ferns, irises and cardinal flowers. The upper edges in the foreground are planted with Echinacea, Rudbeckia and Monarda, satisfying the local bird community and adding bright seasonal colors. This garden effectively collects and cleanses rainwater while creating a habitat for birds, frogs, and butterflies. Our next challenge was to redesign the existing patios and walkways without increasing impervious surfaces. According to township regulations this property was currently at its maximum capacity, therefore we designed the front and rear patios with a slightly smaller footprint to decrease their existing impervious surfaces. New planting beds were designed throughout the entire property. Plants were chosen that were tolerant of specific site conditions. For the rear yard, we choose a backdrop of witch hazel and hollies to provide an evergreen screen as well as early spring color. We placed hydrangea throughout to add summer color. We planted ostrich fern under the existing spruce tree to create a lush floor. This area became an additional backdrop for the rain garden as well as a screen for the neighboring property. We choose a combination of ‘Blue Star’ juniper and creeping jenny to soften the existing rear wall with creepers. Around the rear patio areas we choose a combination of Liatris, Rudbeckia and ‘Lo and Behold’ butterfly bush. This combination of plants works in harmony with the rain garden and attracts additional butterflies. For the front of the property we worked with an existing Japanese maple that provided dense shade. We choose a shade-tolerant combination of Heuchera, Astilbe, ferns and hostas for this area. We added more hydrangeas to the front foundation of the house to provide lush layering of plant material and visual interest with additional summer blooms. Overall, we were able to exceed the client’s needs and expectations in transforming their property into a colorful paradise that attracts wildlife from season to season. The plant palette provides seasonal interest and the rain garden has successfully decreased storm water runoff. The new hardscape surfaces were designed and built with a slightly smaller footprint to decrease impervious surfaces. This project is a positive example of how all properties, regardless of size, can make an ecological difference by decreasing impervious surfaces and maintaining proper storm water management. Photo Credit: Terren Landscapes

Challenge As part-time residents of this Bonita Springs home, our clients were looking to update their outdoor entertainment area. They also planned to be away for the summer during the remodel and needed their renovation project to be finished prior to their return for the winter. Their needs included: Changing the color pallet to a monochromatic scheme, removing the yellow brick pavers, adding an outdoor kitchen area, adding an outdoor fireplace, resurfacing the pool and updating the tile, installing a new screen enclosure, and creating privacy from the neighbors, particularly the main sitting areas, pool and outdoor kitchen. Although there was already a 1,221 sq. ft. lanai under the roof, it lacked functionality needed by the homeowners. Most of its amenities were located at one end of the lanai, and lacked privacy that the homeowners valued. Solution The final project design required two additions to the lanai area adding an accumulative 265 sq. ft. to the existing space expanding their sitting area and accommodating a much-needed outdoor kitchen. The new additions also needed to blend with the home’s existing style. Addition #1—Sitting Area: The first addition added approximately 145 sq. ft. to the end of the lanai. This allowed Progressive Design Build to tie into the existing gable room for the new space and create privacy from the neighbors. Addition #2—Outdoor Kitchen: The second addition was a bump out that added approximately 120 sq. ft. to the end of the house close to the interior kitchen. This allowed the client to add an outdoor over and 52” Viking grill (with a side burner) to their outdoor living space. Other amenities included a new sink and under counter fridge, granite countertops, tumbled stone stile and Cypress cabinetry, custom-fabricated with marine grade plywood boxes and marine grade finishes to withstand moisture, common in the Bonita Bay community. Special attention was given to the preparation area on either side of the stove, the landing area next to the oven and the serving counter behind the bar. Bar seating was added to the outdoor kitchen, allowing guests to visit with the cook comfortably and easily. Brick Pavers During the design phase, we discovered that the original brick pavers were set in sand, with no concrete pad below. Consequently, the retaining wall and several pavers were starting to fail, caused by the shifting sands. To remedy the problem, we installed a new concrete deck and laid new nonslip pavers on top of the deck—ideal for wet area applications. Pool Renovations To dramatically improve the enjoyment and ambiance of their pool, Progressive Design Build completely re-plumbed it, putting in additional lighting and new water features. New decorative pool tile, coping, and a paver deck were also installed around the pool. The pool finish chosen by our clients was a nice tropical blue color. Screen Enclosure A new screen enclosure was installed in compliance with new local building codes, making it more stable and solid than the existing one. The color change from white to bronze coordinated well with the homeowners’ new color scheme; and the location of the service door and stairs provided convenient access to the new pool equipment. Results This project was completed on time and within budget before these homeowners returned for their winter holiday. They were thrilled with the weekly communication, which included two-way phone calls and email photo sharing. They always knew where their project was in the construction process and what was happening at all times—providing security and peace of mind.

Challenge As part-time residents of this Bonita Springs home, our clients were looking to update their outdoor entertainment area. They also planned to be away for the summer during the remodel and needed their renovation project to be finished prior to their return for the winter. Their needs included: Changing the color pallet to a monochromatic scheme, removing the yellow brick pavers, adding an outdoor kitchen area, adding an outdoor fireplace, resurfacing the pool and updating the tile, installing a new screen enclosure, and creating privacy from the neighbors, particularly the main sitting areas, pool and outdoor kitchen. Although there was already a 1,221 sq. ft. lanai under the roof, it lacked functionality needed by the homeowners. Most of its amenities were located at one end of the lanai, and lacked privacy that the homeowners valued. Solution The final project design required two additions to the lanai area adding an accumulative 265 sq. ft. to the existing space expanding their sitting area and accommodating a much-needed outdoor kitchen. The new additions also needed to blend with the home’s existing style. Addition #1—Sitting Area: The first addition added approximately 145 sq. ft. to the end of the lanai. This allowed Progressive Design Build to tie into the existing gable room for the new space and create privacy from the neighbors. Addition #2—Outdoor Kitchen: The second addition was a bump out that added approximately 120 sq. ft. to the end of the house close to the interior kitchen. This allowed the client to add an outdoor over and 52” Viking grill (with a side burner) to their outdoor living space. Other amenities included a new sink and under counter fridge, granite countertops, tumbled stone stile and Cypress cabinetry, custom-fabricated with marine grade plywood boxes and marine grade finishes to withstand moisture, common in the Bonita Bay community. Special attention was given to the preparation area on either side of the stove, the landing area next to the oven and the serving counter behind the bar. Bar seating was added to the outdoor kitchen, allowing guests to visit with the cook comfortably and easily. Brick Pavers During the design phase, we discovered that the original brick pavers were set in sand, with no concrete pad below. Consequently, the retaining wall and several pavers were starting to fail, caused by the shifting sands. To remedy the problem, we installed a new concrete deck and laid new nonslip pavers on top of the deck—ideal for wet area applications. Pool Renovations To dramatically improve the enjoyment and ambiance of their pool, Progressive Design Build completely re-plumbed it, putting in additional lighting and new water features. New decorative pool tile, coping, and a paver deck were also installed around the pool. The pool finish chosen by our clients was a nice tropical blue color. Screen Enclosure A new screen enclosure was installed in compliance with new local building codes, making it more stable and solid than the existing one. The color change from white to bronze coordinated well with the homeowners’ new color scheme; and the location of the service door and stairs provided convenient access to the new pool equipment. Results This project was completed on time and within budget before these homeowners returned for their winter holiday. They were thrilled with the weekly communication, which included two-way phone calls and email photo sharing. They always knew where their project was in the construction process and what was happening at all times—providing security and peace of mind.

12x24 Crema Imperial Travertine on the floor Diano Real Marble Counter Crema Marfil Marble Mosaic Rhombus on shower floor & Deco tile
Drop-in bathtub - large modern master beige tile and stone tile travertine floor drop-in bathtub idea in Dallas with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, dark wood cabinets, marble countertops, a two-piece toilet and beige walls

Woodwerd
Inspiration for a large contemporary open concept family room remodel in Austin with gray walls