Hot tub - mid-sized modern backyard concrete and custom-shaped hot tub idea in Orange County

This project showcases a bold, architectural approach to a large-scale residential landscape, emphasizing clean lines and high-contrast materials to create a truly high-end outdoor experience. The Design Vision: The objective was to transform this expansive estate into a series of functional "outdoor rooms" that maintain a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. We focused on precision masonry and a neutral palette to allow the structural elements of the design to take center stage. Key Features: Architectural Hardscaping: We utilized large-scale, custom concrete pavers in a "floating" layout, creating a rhythmic and structured pathway that guides movement through the estate. The Sunken Fire Lounge: A primary focal point, the sunken fire pit area features a custom-built, L-shaped bench with integrated stone backing. The use of sleek, light-toned stone veneer and smooth concrete surfaces creates a sophisticated space for evening entertainment. Lush, Low-Maintenance Greenery: Vibrant, emerald artificial turf provides a stark, clean contrast against the cool gray tones of the concrete and stone. To add texture, we integrated native agave and yucca plantings set within dark basalt gravel beds, anchored by large natural boulders. Structural Definition: The entire space is framed by clean-lined black ornamental fencing and multi-level concrete retaining walls, which manage the site's grade while adding to the modern, tiered look of the property. The final result is a seamless blend of luxury and functionality, offering a refined Texas Modern aesthetic that is built for both high-impact visual appeal and effortless living.

This project showcases a bold, architectural approach to a large-scale residential landscape, emphasizing clean lines and high-contrast materials to create a truly high-end outdoor experience. The Design Vision: The objective was to transform this expansive estate into a series of functional "outdoor rooms" that maintain a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. We focused on precision masonry and a neutral palette to allow the structural elements of the design to take center stage. Key Features: Architectural Hardscaping: We utilized large-scale, custom concrete pavers in a "floating" layout, creating a rhythmic and structured pathway that guides movement through the estate. The Sunken Fire Lounge: A primary focal point, the sunken fire pit area features a custom-built, L-shaped bench with integrated stone backing. The use of sleek, light-toned stone veneer and smooth concrete surfaces creates a sophisticated space for evening entertainment. Lush, Low-Maintenance Greenery: Vibrant, emerald artificial turf provides a stark, clean contrast against the cool gray tones of the concrete and stone. To add texture, we integrated native agave and yucca plantings set within dark basalt gravel beds, anchored by large natural boulders. Structural Definition: The entire space is framed by clean-lined black ornamental fencing and multi-level concrete retaining walls, which manage the site's grade while adding to the modern, tiered look of the property. The final result is a seamless blend of luxury and functionality, offering a refined Texas Modern aesthetic that is built for both high-impact visual appeal and effortless living.

Inspiration for a mid-sized modern full sun backyard mulch formal garden in New York.

Design ideas for a mid-sized modern backyard concrete paver and wood fence lawn edging in San Francisco.

Inspiration for a mid-sized transitional gray two-story stucco exterior home remodel in San Francisco

Photography by Studio H Landscape Architecture. Post processing by Isabella Li.
Design ideas for a contemporary landscaping in Orange County.

Design ideas for a farmhouse landscaping in New Orleans.

Each outdoor room of this El Cerrito Mid Century Modern backyard deck, from the outdoor kitchen, to the dining area, to lounge area, maximize the views of the bay. This couple were very excited about and involved in designing the look and feel of their outdoor living space. For instance, instead of the typical deck redwood flooring, we were able to accommodate their desire to have a flagstone floor built on a redwood frame, which was more in keeping with their Mid Century Modern style. The husband was a gourmet chef and particularly enjoyed the design of his specialty outdoor kitchen.

Inspiration for a backyard formal garden in Indianapolis.

Inspiration for a large modern backyard concrete patio remodel in Orange County with a fire pit and a gazebo

Mid-sized 1950s multicolored one-story mixed siding house exterior photo in Phoenix with a hip roof and a shingle roof

Patio - transitional patio idea in Birmingham

Designer: Paul McClean Project Type: New Single Family Residence Location: Los Angeles, CA Approximate Size: 11,000 sf Project Completed: June 2013 Photographer: Jim Bartsch

“Greensboro’s Grandest House” was recently selected as the 2013 ShowHouse presented by the Junior League of Greensboro and national media sponsor Traditional Home. Among the local and national design talent featured in this special fundraising event was design duo Patti Allen and Stephanie James of Furnitureland South, who transformed the estate’s patio into a classic, colorful and cozy space. Built in the early 1920s, the Adamsleigh estate is more than 15,000 square feet and covers 13.5 acres that include pools, a lake, tennis courts, a stone gazebo and a five-car garage. The 30×60 patio presented a special design challenge – the space was in disrepair and sat unevenly on a downward slope. Rising to the challenge, Patti and Stephanie partnered with Outer Space Landscapes to change the elevation of the patio in order to draw attention to the focal point and inspiration of the project: a beautiful canopy sofa by Century Furniture. The addition of 6 tons of landscaping material included Pennsylvania blue stone, pebbles, sand, cherry trees, azaleas and geraniums all blooming in the colors of the latest Sunbrella fabrics featured in the outdoor furnishings: crisp, sandy white, fuchsia and tangerine. Patti and Stephanie wanted to showcase clean and classic outdoor style with an edge of color and unexpected elements. Playful ottomans by Baker float in the space for multiple functions, adding an extra pop of color to the sophisticated setting which includes a dining table by Oscar de la Renta, organic spot tables from Phillips Collection, and daybeds and seating from Century Furniture. Combining their passion for interior spaces with signature designs, Allen and James Designs gave this outdoor space the comfort, color and style it deserved. Patti and Stephanie, co-founders of Allen and James Designs, are committed to inspire and influence unique spaces for home, work, play and relaxation. With over 25 years of experience and a dedication to client relationships, their infusion of international inspiration with style, color, texture and vision make Patti and Stephanie a creative duo capable of exceeding the expectations of any client’s design project. By forming over 400 connections with key manufactures such as Henredon, Century, Lillian August, Dovetail, Maitland Smith and Huntington House, Allen and James Designs can provide a broad range of options that virtually meet any need a client has to create their dream home.

A rustic wood gate flanked with pots full of old fashioned roses provide an informal entry to the entry courtyard from the gravel driveway.
Photo of a mid-sized coastal full sun front yard gravel garden path in San Francisco.

We designed and installed a brand new driveway, new landscaping, walkways and property gate.
This is an example of a mid-sized modern front yard concrete paver driveway in San Francisco.