The fine 19th century inspired wood furnishings with their inlay and silk-like sheen dance amidst rich, chocolate brown walls, an embellished ceiling and marvelous mid-century leaning dining chairs that wink with contrast brown trim. Sleek embroidered silk draperies are cut for fullness and the buttery gold fixtures and accessories infuse the room with a fresh, youthful vibe. Photography by David van Scott

The faux purple leather on the dining room chairs are perfectly kid friendly. The eclectic mix of glass bottles and accents on the dining room table are a wonderful alternative to ephemeral fresh flowers. The walls are papered in a smokey gray grasscloth and the stunning chandelier came from the owner's apartment in Paris. Photography by: Michael Partenio

Garden 7 in Del Rey http://www.nativeplantgardentour.org/gardens/garden-7-in-del-rey/

Its all about family...This east side backyard transformation began with a recommendation from our previous clients. This design build plan began with the family in mind! A place to have picnics, learn about flowers, enjoy family pets, vegetable gardening, bird watching and an outdoor living space for friends and family to get together for those special everyday occasions! Mission accomplished, phase 1.

Inspiration for a timeless shed remodel in Denver

Inspiration for a contemporary landscaping in Los Angeles.

The landscape design for this property in an established New York City suburb marries stately elegance with relaxed outdoor living. The greatest challenge of the site was a considerable grade change over a small area (a third of an acre). We replaced overgrown shrubs and crumbling stonework with a clean hardscape design that clearly defines the flow around the property. A long play lawn in front is linked to a sideyard patio space and natural-gas campfire with broad bluestone block steps. A cozy dining terrace behind the house is hugged by a retaining wall that showcases friendly flowering plants and edibles. Set into the terrace wall is a custom water feature that brings sound and movement to the seating area. Exposed ledge in the backyard provides a fun playspace for adventurous kids, with a rope bridge leading to a playhouse.

Natural swimming pool with waterfall and custom slide design. A firepit and Lush plantings surround the pool area. Luxury swimming pool landscaping ideas by Cipriano- 2013 “Top 50 Pool Builder” with 14 International Design Awards. Bergen County-Northern NJ

Romneya coulteri known as Matiliya Poppy. California Native Plant Giant Tree Poppy known as the Fried Egg Flower. Low water feature planting can tower to a seven foot height. Butterfly friendly, drought tolerant, and a California wonder. Photo by Katrina Coombs

Picture it--family and friends roasting marshmallows by the fire on a crisp, cool, evening. Afterwards, enjoying a dip in the hot tub. If your backyard looked like this why would you want to be inside?

Joe Cotitta Epic Photography joecotitta@cox.net:
Mid-sized transitional freestanding desk carpeted home studio photo in Phoenix with multicolored walls and no fireplace

Like most growing families, this client wanted to lure everyone outside. And when the family went outdoors, they were hoping to find flamboyant color, delicious fragrance, freshly grilled food, fun play-spaces, and comfy entertaining areas waiting. Privacy was an imperative. Seems basic enough. But a heap of challenges stood in the way between what they were given upon arrival and the family's ultimate dreamscape. Primary among the impediments was the fact that the house stands on a busy corner lot. Plus, the breakneck slope was definitely not playground-friendly. Fortunately, Westover Landscape Design rode to the rescue and literally leveled the playing field. Furthermore, flowing from space to space is a thoroughly enjoyable, ever-changing journey given the blossom-filled, year-around-splendiferous gardens that now hug the walkway and stretch out to the property lines. Soft evergreen hedges and billowing flowering shrubs muffle street noise, giving the garden within a sense of embrace. A fully functional (and frequently used) convenient outdoor kitchen/dining area/living room expand the house's floorplan into a relaxing, nature-infused on-site vacationland. Mission accomplished. With the addition of the stunning old-world stone fireplace and pergola, this amazing property is a welcome retreat for year round enjoyment. Mission accomplished. Rob Cardillo for Westover Landscape Design, Inc.

Garden 1 in Beverly Hills http://www.nativeplantgardentour.org/gardens/garden-1-in-beverly-hills/gardens/garden-1-in-beverly-hills/

Garden 7 in Del Rey http://www.nativeplantgardentour.org/gardens/garden-7-in-del-rey/

Just after planting
Photo of a mediterranean front yard landscaping in Los Angeles.

Design ideas for a mid-sized partial sun front yard mulch landscaping in Nashville.

The large screened porch, off the formal living room, had the furniture arranged to face the view. To invite home buyers into the space, we faced the seating toward the interior of the home. We added the extra pillows from the living room to freshen the upholstered pieces, and added colorful flowers and accessories. One can imagine peaceful evenings spent with friends sharing wine and conversation.

Its all about family...This east side backyard transformation began with a recommendation from our previous clients. This design build plan began with the family in mind! A place to have picnics, learn about flowers, enjoy family pets, vegetable gardening, bird watching and an outdoor living space for friends and family to get together for those special everyday occasions! Mission accomplished, phase 1.