Outdoor shower deck - mid-sized coastal outdoor shower deck idea in Baltimore

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary open concept medium tone wood floor, wood wall and brown floor living room remodel in Toronto with white walls, a ribbon fireplace and a stone fireplace

Example of a tuscan freestanding desk dark wood floor home office design in Los Angeles with a standard fireplace

John Wilbanks Photography
Example of a classic boy playroom design in Seattle with beige walls

Kids' bedroom - mid-sized and bedroom contemporary loft-style and girl carpeted kids' bedroom idea in Miami with purple walls

Casey Dunn
Deck - contemporary deck idea in Austin with no cover

The quaking aspen provide upper level screening, but still allow light through to the patio. Photography by Larry Huene Photography.
Example of a small trendy backyard stone patio design in Chicago with a pergola

The Vision Our clients wanted a beautiful backyard to look out upon from their upper screen room, and to have a water feature to listen to. A functional space to have their grandchildren be able to enjoy and also the installation of lighting for safety and enjoyment in the evenings were high on the priority list. Their final wish list was an extended driveway and several trees nearby for privacy and future shade. The Challenge The site itself is in a low area and the lot was heavy clay that was often full of standing water. This was the biggest challenge with choosing plant material that would withstand some poor drainage in most areas. Project Features Paver border on driveway Water feature Bluestone and paver patio and walkways Outdoor Lighting Plantings Design + Plan Creating this landscape to be successful started with proper grading of the site to help reduce the amount of standing water. Drainage was installed as well as grading to allow water to be directed to a storm drain at the rear of the property. Plantings that will tolerate standing water, such as Red maple and Dawn Redwood were used in areas that may have flooding. A paver border was installed along the driveway to give them more space and add a finished look to the home. Natural stone steps and a bluestone patio were added with paver accents through the patio to highlight a path to the backyard from the deck. Boulders are placed throughout for the kids to climb on and to bring in more stones to play off of the water feature. Plantings include grasses, flowering shrubs, and perennials creating a casual atmosphere in the back landscape. The front entrance has shrub roses, coral bells, and grasses as well in high contrast colors for visual interest. The lighting throughout the landscape features path lighting for safety as well as uplights on many of the trees and downlighting onto the water feature in the backyard. Final Result New Build with the Future in Mind Many newly built homes in subdivisions leave a lot to be desired in the landscape, and this homeowner had the foresight to know that doing it right the first time is important. By investing in good materials and planning, and planting trees for the future early on, this landscape will last a long time and provide an amazing space for decades. A beautiful timeless combination of plantings and hardscape materials at this property along with the relaxing sound of the water feature make for a lovely retreat in this neighborhood.

Example of a huge minimalist open concept medium tone wood floor and brown floor living room design in Tampa with white walls, a wood fireplace surround, a wall-mounted tv and a ribbon fireplace

Casey Dunn
Pool - contemporary side yard rectangular lap pool idea in Austin

On the first floor, in addition to the guest room, a “kids room” welcomes visiting nieces and nephews with bunk beds and their own bathroom. Photographer: Aaron Leitz

This family treehouse can be used year round for a variety of activities. The upper deck, with stunning views, is perfect for summer picnics, while the side deck is more suited for a quiet spot to read or relax. The interior has a couch for napping, a desk for writing and working, a kitchenette and small dining area. The initial inspiration for the room was a cozy spot for hosting lunch and dinner parties... in a unique & rustic setting. Photo by David Patterson Photography www.davidpattersonphotography.com

Inspiration for a large farmhouse white two-story wood exterior home remodel in San Francisco

Photographer: Isabelle Eubanks Interiors: Modern Organic Interiors, Architect: Simpson Design Group, Builder: Milne Design and Build
Family room - farmhouse medium tone wood floor family room idea in San Francisco with white walls, no fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

Inspiration for a large transitional walk-in closet remodel in Los Angeles with flat-panel cabinets and white cabinets

Small 1950s master mosaic tile floor and blue floor bathroom photo in San Francisco with medium tone wood cabinets, flat-panel cabinets, white walls and an undermount sink

Large contemporary white two-story stone gable roof idea in Dallas with a metal roof

Mark Lohman Photography
Example of a bedroom and mid-sized beach style gender-neutral light wood floor and beige floor kids' bedroom design in Orange County with green walls