This gorgeous Bartonville project has a Geometric swimming pool with a glass tile raised perimeter overflow spa (vanishing edge). There is also a custom cabana with kitchen, big screen tv, fireplace, Primo grill, overhead fan, cam lights all for enjoyment & relaxation. The diving board is recessed and there is lighting around the steps for safety. Fire/water bowls were used for focal points in both the daytime & nighttime. Designed by Mike Farley.

A cost effective pergola was quickly installed to help shade the hot midday sun and create a cozy outside dining area. Photo by: Peter Bradica
Patio kitchen - traditional backyard patio kitchen idea in Chicago with a pergola

Large island style backyard concrete and custom-shaped natural hot tub photo in New Orleans

Hot tub - large tropical backyard concrete and custom-shaped natural hot tub idea in New Orleans

After many years of having no outdoor living space and dealing with overgrown plants and trees the owner’s decided it was time to revitalize their backyard. They knew they wanted a large sitting area with a wood burning fireplace, room for outdoor dining and a place for the grill. A connecting walk would be needed to get guests from the driveway to the outdoor space. Last but not least, the owners wanted the ability to and a reason for stepping out of their unusable patio doors. The designers decided from the start the fireplace would be the prominent feature and focal point for the entire project. A large fireplace accented with sitting walls and arbors was positioned to anchor the corner of the patio. Stone was chosen to set the fireplace apart as its own element. Brick was used for the sitting walls and brick accents were added to the fireplace to tie into the house. An inlaid herringbone brick detail was incorporated above the stone mantle to simulate artwork which is typically found above indoor fireplaces. Flagstone was used for the wall caps and hearth to match the patio and thicker flagstone tread stock was used for the mantle and top. The arbors were added to visually balance the pergolas at the opposite side of the patio. For the patio the designers created a series of offset spaces to help subtly divide the space into two areas, sitting and dining. Two large existing trees also help dictate the shape of the patio. Cut flagstone was chosen for the surface bordered by a double soldier edge of brick. The brick edging also surrounds a decorative gravel area topped with an urn fountain which provides a secondary focal point and the sound of water. Large flagstone treads were used for the steps leading to the previously unused patio doors. Opposite the fireplace a short walk leads to a square transition area with a statue chosen by the owner. The statue provides a strong focal point when entering from the driveway. A longer walk leads from this space along the house to the driveway. The pergolas and arbors were designed by the landscape designer as part of this project but were ultimately contracted separately by the owner. The larger square pergola was intended as an area for a bench or two separate from the main patio. The longer pergola was added later in the design phase to help provide shade to the interior of the house. The arbors at the fireplace were added to balance out the wood elements at the opposite side while adding additional architectural interest to the fireplace. While this project was predominantly hardscaping, planting and lighting were also incorporated into the design. Several large existing trees were retained and serious of smaller understory trees were added to help enclose the space. The designer’s took advantage of the large trees to place down lights on the branches to achieve a moonlight effect at night. Additional lighting was used on the pergola, to accent focal points, to up light the smaller trees and around the patio. Massed planting of Japanese forest grass provides bold foliage color for the shady garden. A mulch path leads off behind the fireplace to another garden and a secluded area ideal for a bench or small table and chairs. Additional plantings were added along the rear property line to screen and unsightly fence. This project has obviously completely changed the way the owners use their backyard. They now have a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors with the use of the patio doors. The large patio allows for entertaining small gatherings outdoors for the first time. The fireplace has definitely become the primary gathering place for family and friends.

After many years of having no outdoor living space and dealing with overgrown plants and trees the owner’s decided it was time to revitalize their backyard. They knew they wanted a large sitting area with a wood burning fireplace, room for outdoor dining and a place for the grill. A connecting walk would be needed to get guests from the driveway to the outdoor space. Last but not least, the owners wanted the ability to and a reason for stepping out of their unusable patio doors. The designers decided from the start the fireplace would be the prominent feature and focal point for the entire project. A large fireplace accented with sitting walls and arbors was positioned to anchor the corner of the patio. Stone was chosen to set the fireplace apart as its own element. Brick was used for the sitting walls and brick accents were added to the fireplace to tie into the house. An inlaid herringbone brick detail was incorporated above the stone mantle to simulate artwork which is typically found above indoor fireplaces. Flagstone was used for the wall caps and hearth to match the patio and thicker flagstone tread stock was used for the mantle and top. The arbors were added to visually balance the pergolas at the opposite side of the patio. For the patio the designers created a series of offset spaces to help subtly divide the space into two areas, sitting and dining. Two large existing trees also help dictate the shape of the patio. Cut flagstone was chosen for the surface bordered by a double soldier edge of brick. The brick edging also surrounds a decorative gravel area topped with an urn fountain which provides a secondary focal point and the sound of water. Large flagstone treads were used for the steps leading to the previously unused patio doors. Opposite the fireplace a short walk leads to a square transition area with a statue chosen by the owner. The statue provides a strong focal point when entering from the driveway. A longer walk leads from this space along the house to the driveway. The pergolas and arbors were designed by the landscape designer as part of this project but were ultimately contracted separately by the owner. The larger square pergola was intended as an area for a bench or two separate from the main patio. The longer pergola was added later in the design phase to help provide shade to the interior of the house. The arbors at the fireplace were added to balance out the wood elements at the opposite side while adding additional architectural interest to the fireplace. While this project was predominantly hardscaping, planting and lighting were also incorporated into the design. Several large existing trees were retained and serious of smaller understory trees were added to help enclose the space. The designer’s took advantage of the large trees to place down lights on the branches to achieve a moonlight effect at night. Additional lighting was used on the pergola, to accent focal points, to up light the smaller trees and around the patio. Massed planting of Japanese forest grass provides bold foliage color for the shady garden. A mulch path leads off behind the fireplace to another garden and a secluded area ideal for a bench or small table and chairs. Additional plantings were added along the rear property line to screen and unsightly fence. This project has obviously completely changed the way the owners use their backyard. They now have a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors with the use of the patio doors. The large patio allows for entertaining small gatherings outdoors for the first time. The fireplace has definitely become the primary gathering place for family and friends.

Inspiration for a large modern drought-tolerant and full sun backyard brick landscaping in Phoenix.

This Grapevine project was designed to damage a minimum amount of trees on a nice hillside. A raised wall was incorporated on the back of the pool that acts as a retaining wall to provide a flat spot for the pool. On the upper terrace above we built the cabana. Two inch sawcut Limestone was used for all the veneer to give a clean tailored look to the project. The spa was elevated and white precast coping was used along with the pool. A dark pattern concrete was used for the deck color to contrast. On the cabana we tried to match the existing house style, precast columns were used instead of typical stone columns. The cabana was done in pine and painted white instead of the typical cedar application. A comp roof was used. Built in bar & cabinets to recess existing grill carts were installed. A fire pit was placed to the side of the cabana at the pool level. A finger ledge was used on the raised wall to provide safety. Sheer rain was used on the project to provide a focal point - It provides more of a visual effect against the white Austin stone vs. a sheer descent. A vaulted ceiling was done in the cabana to match the existing home. Patio was capped in pattern concrete to match the new pool deck as well.

Graceful grasses fill the space creating an etherial effect. In the foreground is a glazed pot from Eye of the Day, GDC. And in the distance the centerpiece of this garden, a French stone fountain also from Eye of the Day, GDC.

Contemporary water bar with ripple effect. Backside of the counter waterwall has bench seating. The waterfall cap provides a bar counter to enjoy food & drinks & a great view of the whole outdoor environment. Designed by Mike Farley and constructed by Claffey Pools. Photo by Mike Farley

After many years of having no outdoor living space and dealing with overgrown plants and trees the owner’s decided it was time to revitalize their backyard. They knew they wanted a large sitting area with a wood burning fireplace, room for outdoor dining and a place for the grill. A connecting walk would be needed to get guests from the driveway to the outdoor space. Last but not least, the owners wanted the ability to and a reason for stepping out of their unusable patio doors. The designers decided from the start the fireplace would be the prominent feature and focal point for the entire project. A large fireplace accented with sitting walls and arbors was positioned to anchor the corner of the patio. Stone was chosen to set the fireplace apart as its own element. Brick was used for the sitting walls and brick accents were added to the fireplace to tie into the house. An inlaid herringbone brick detail was incorporated above the stone mantle to simulate artwork which is typically found above indoor fireplaces. Flagstone was used for the wall caps and hearth to match the patio and thicker flagstone tread stock was used for the mantle and top. The arbors were added to visually balance the pergolas at the opposite side of the patio. For the patio the designers created a series of offset spaces to help subtly divide the space into two areas, sitting and dining. Two large existing trees also help dictate the shape of the patio. Cut flagstone was chosen for the surface bordered by a double soldier edge of brick. The brick edging also surrounds a decorative gravel area topped with an urn fountain which provides a secondary focal point and the sound of water. Large flagstone treads were used for the steps leading to the previously unused patio doors. Opposite the fireplace a short walk leads to a square transition area with a statue chosen by the owner. The statue provides a strong focal point when entering from the driveway. A longer walk leads from this space along the house to the driveway. The pergolas and arbors were designed by the landscape designer as part of this project but were ultimately contracted separately by the owner. The larger square pergola was intended as an area for a bench or two separate from the main patio. The longer pergola was added later in the design phase to help provide shade to the interior of the house. The arbors at the fireplace were added to balance out the wood elements at the opposite side while adding additional architectural interest to the fireplace. While this project was predominantly hardscaping, planting and lighting were also incorporated into the design. Several large existing trees were retained and serious of smaller understory trees were added to help enclose the space. The designer’s took advantage of the large trees to place down lights on the branches to achieve a moonlight effect at night. Additional lighting was used on the pergola, to accent focal points, to up light the smaller trees and around the patio. Massed planting of Japanese forest grass provides bold foliage color for the shady garden. A mulch path leads off behind the fireplace to another garden and a secluded area ideal for a bench or small table and chairs. Additional plantings were added along the rear property line to screen and unsightly fence. This project has obviously completely changed the way the owners use their backyard. They now have a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors with the use of the patio doors. The large patio allows for entertaining small gatherings outdoors for the first time. The fireplace has definitely become the primary gathering place for family and friends.

Our long-time clients wanted a bit of outdoor entertainment space at their Boston penthouse, and while there were some challenges due to location and footprint, we agreed to help. The views are amazing as this space overlooks the harbor and Boston’s bustling Seaport below. With Logan Airport just on the other side of the Boston Harbor, the arriving jets are a mesmerizing site as their lights line up in preparation to land. The entire space we had to work with is less than 10 feet wide and 45 feet long (think bowling-alley-lane dimensions), so we worked extremely hard to get as much programmable space as possible without forcing any of the areas. The gathering spots are delineated by granite and IPE wood floor tiles supported on a custom pedestal system designed to protect the rubber roof below. The gas grill and wine fridge are installed within a custom-built IPE cabinet topped by jet-mist granite countertops. This countertop extends to a slightly-raised bar area for the ultimate view beyond and terminates as a waterfall of granite meets the same jet-mist floor tiles… custom-cut and honed to match, of course. Moving along the length of the space, the floor transitions from granite to wood, and is framed by sculptural containers and plants. Low-voltage lighting warms the space and creates a striking display that harmonizes with the city lights below. Once again, the floor transitions, this time back to granite in the seating area consisting of two counter-height chairs. "This purposeful back-and-forth of the floor really helps define the space and our furniture choices create these niches that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.” - Russell The terrace concludes with a large trough planter filled with ornamental grasses in the summer months and a seasonal holiday arrangements throughout the winter. An ‘L’-shaped couch offers a spot for multiple guests to relax and take in the sounds of a custom sound system — all hidden and out of sight — which adds to the magical feel of this ultimate night spot.

This Amazing Home Sits in one of Colorado's most coveted Mountain Resorts. The Lighting and architecture work together to create a space that allows for indoor-outdoor living at its best. The firepit floats with hidden light while trimless square beveled downlights provide functional light from above. A well placed dark-sky light fixture lights the prep surface for the outdoor grill. Hidden lighting effects and deeply recessed architectural lights provide a glare free environment for the owners' enjoyment. Ric Stovall-Photographer, Hans Berglund - Architect, Sarah Carr - Interiors, RA Nelson - General Contractor, Marmot Electric - Electrical Contractor, Xssentials - System Integration

The goal in building this home was to create an exterior esthetic that elicits memories of a Tuscan Villa on a hillside and also incorporates a modern feel to the interior. Modern aspects were achieved using an open staircase along with a 25' wide rear folding door. The addition of the folding door allows us to achieve a seamless feel between the interior and exterior of the house. Such creates a versatile entertaining area that increases the capacity to comfortably entertain guests. The outdoor living space with covered porch is another unique feature of the house. The porch has a fireplace plus heaters in the ceiling which allow one to entertain guests regardless of the temperature. The zero edge pool provides an absolutely beautiful backdrop—currently, it is the only one made in Indiana. Lastly, the master bathroom shower has a 2' x 3' shower head for the ultimate waterfall effect. This house is unique both outside and in.

Pool: - 22’ x 44’ infinity edge pool (66’ infinity edge) - shallow-end sun shelf with five LED bubblers for light and water effect - three laminar jets out of the patio to put a jet of water into each corner of the pool - star field on pool floor with 100 points of light provided by four LED fixtures through fiber-optic cables (25 cables per fixture), subtle constellation within the hundred points of light star field - additional LED lights, glass tile trim, including glass edge tiles - hot tub on top of a raised marble stone wall perimeter overflow at the same height as the Brazilian teak wood deck; there is an under deck gutter 1/8 wide - hot tub is all glass tile with a recessed toe-kick that hides the drains and light fixtures - glass railing / barrier Living space: - travertine stone with marble veneer and Brazilian teak trim throughout - custom-built wood benches, mantle, pizza oven, grill, refrigerated drawers, sink - recessed screens that lower from the roof to enclose the entire living space when needed Landscape: - putting green, landscape lighting, under-cap lights - outdoor speakers and subwoofer

Mirrored wall cabinet backs along patio wall with mirrored posts and pilasters. The effect is an elegant look for to this beautiful NatureKast outdoor kitchen. Door style: Shaker. Finish: Espresso.

Pool: - 22’ x 44’ infinity edge pool (66’ infinity edge) - shallow-end sun shelf with five LED bubblers for light and water effect - three laminar jets out of the patio to put a jet of water into each corner of the pool - star field on pool floor with 100 points of light provided by four LED fixtures through fiber-optic cables (25 cables per fixture), subtle constellation within the hundred points of light star field - additional LED lights, glass tile trim, including glass edge tiles - hot tub on top of a raised marble stone wall perimeter overflow at the same height as the Brazilian teak wood deck; there is an under deck gutter 1/8 wide - hot tub is all glass tile with a recessed toe-kick that hides the drains and light fixtures - glass railing / barrier Living space: - travertine stone with marble veneer and Brazilian teak trim throughout - custom-built wood benches, mantle, pizza oven, grill, refrigerated drawers, sink - recessed screens that lower from the roof to enclose the entire living space when needed Landscape: - putting green, landscape lighting, under-cap lights - outdoor speakers and subwoofer

Design by Haven Design Workshop Photography by Jim Smith Photography
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary galley light wood floor eat-in kitchen remodel in Seattle with a farmhouse sink, open cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, granite countertops, beige backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

On Riverside drive at 90th Street, this apartment looks into the tree canopy of Riverside Park. The living room was lined along its length with LED cove lighting to reinforce the view axiality. Furniture and finishes were selected to have a minimal aesthetic impact thereby increasing the apartment’s apparent space. The kitchen was designed to the same conceptual value. A highly functional cooking facility laid out in such a way to work effectively and seem spacious. With the tubs left in place bathrooms were renovated with new fixtures tile and fittings. Radiator covers concealed both radiators and wall AC units, with bar grille fronts and stone tops.