The juxtaposition of wood grain and saturated, high gloss panels creates a dramatic statement in this fun, mid-century modern living room. Photo by Jeri Koegel

Originally designed by one of the most notable landscape architects in town, this once impressive project had faltered in recent years. The pool and spa still functioned well, and the client wanted to keep it intact. In addition, they wanted to keep as much of the existing landscaping as possible. The surrounding decks, walls, and steps were fair game. At first glance, one might think that our changes were simple material changes. Upon closer inspection, however, one can see the subtle, yet transformative changes that come together to update this classic pool in a tasteful, timeless manner, and improve the flow and usability of the deck areas, while softening the feel of the massive hardscape. The subtle changes begin as soon as you walk out the back door of the house. The existing decking had a lot of what we call “tweeners”; areas that are overly generous walkways, yet not large enough to house furniture. The awkwardly small bluestone patio was expanded to accommodate a generous seating area, by pushing the step-down closer to the pool. Our talented stone mason carefully married the new bluestone into the existing, resulting in an imperceptible difference between the two. As you descend the new bluestone steps to the pool level, your bare feet will be thankful for the new smooth-finished limestone colored concrete, with a hand cut pattern carefully etched into its surface. The old red brick decking was so hot that the owners could not walk around the pool in bare feet. The brick coping was also replaced with an eased edge Pennsylvania Premier Stone which matches the new step treads throughout the project. Between the house and the pool, a large raised planter was reconfigured, giving additional space to the pool deck for a shaded lounge chair area. Across the pool, a bank of rather tall painted brick retaining walls were cut down, shortened, and moved. This lessened the visual impact of the walls, which were rather overwhelming in the space, as well as opening up a new seating area, nestled under the arms of the massive pecan at the back of the property. Rather than continuing solid decking around the entire pool, the area near these walls has been transformed to large stone stepper pads set in a sea of beautiful St. Augustine lawn. This creates a visually softened area that is still suited to setting tables and chairs when the guest list calls for additional seating. The spa area is quite possibly the most dramatic change on this project. Yet more raised planter walls divided this area into awkward spaces, unsuited to proper furniture placement. The planters were removed, new stone decks, once again expertly married into the existing, opening the area to house a large dining table and new built in bbq area. The spa itself was re-imagined with the bluestone coping, and painted brick veneer. The most impressive addition though is the new handmade glazed tiles that surround the existing cast stone water feature. This water feature was almost unnoticeable against the painted brick wall, but now the dramatic arch and pop of color draw the eye to this quaint little corner of the property.

Small space living solutions are used throughout this contemporary 596 square foot tiny house. Adjustable height table in the entry area serves as both a coffee table for socializing and as a dining table for eating. Curved banquette is upholstered in outdoor fabric for durability and maximizes space with hidden storage underneath the seat. Kitchen island has a retractable countertop for additional seating while the living area conceals a work desk and media center behind sliding shoji screens. Calming tones of sand and deep ocean blue fill the tiny bedroom downstairs. Glowing bedside sconces utilize wall-mounting and swing arms to conserve bedside space and maximize flexibility.

Photo: Anthony D. Russo
Photo of a traditional full sun stone garden path in Portland.

Grasses visually soften the top edge of the four-foot Versalok modular concrete block wall. Steps provide easy access to the deck from the yard.
Inspiration for a large modern backyard stone landscaping in Minneapolis.

Photo of a large transitional full sun backyard retaining wall landscape in New York.

Photo of a large traditional full sun backyard brick retaining wall landscape in Omaha for fall.

Inspiration for a large contemporary partial sun backyard retaining wall landscape in San Francisco.

Home office with modern flair. White furniture and walls lend a strong focus to the daring green moss accent wall. The sleek desk and chairs add to the overall modern effect of the room. A brilliant use of a small space, this home office is clean-cut and edgy. Photography by Hudi Greenberger

A sculptural statement in its own right, this concrete-and-glass “Gallery House” was designed to showcase the owners’ art collection as well as the natural landscape. The architecture is truly one with its site: To the east, a sheltering wall echoes the curve of a crowded cul-de-sac, while to the west, the design follows the sweeping contours of the cliff—ensuring privacy while maximizing views. The architectural details demanded flawless construction: Windows and doors stretch floor-to-ceiling, and minimalist reveals define the walls, which “float” between perfect shadow lines in the long T-shape foyer. Ideal for entertaining, the layout fosters seamless indoor-outdoor living. Amenities include four pocketing glass walls, a lanai with heated floor, and a partially cantilevered multi-level terrace. The front courtyard sequesters a frameless glass entry. From here, sight lines stretch through the house to an infinity pool that hovers between sky and sea.

Photo Credit: Mary Prince
Example of a trendy bathroom design in Boston with a vessel sink, wood countertops, a wall-mount toilet, purple walls and brown countertops

Montana Rockworks stone wall surrounds rustic farmhouse with wood bat on board siding and windows with red muntins with a large stone chimney.
Large rustic one-story wood exterior home idea in San Francisco

A retaining wall can be more than a structural function in your backyard, it can add seating and visual beauty.
Photo of a transitional backyard concrete paver retaining wall landscape in Salt Lake City.

Incorporating a reclaimed wood wall into this newly renovated East Village Duplex, brought in warm materials into an open stairwell. © Devon Banks
Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary dark wood floor and brown floor hallway remodel in New York with white walls

Steel retaining walls and zoysia turf grass
Design ideas for a large modern drought-tolerant and full sun front yard stone retaining wall landscape in Austin for spring.

Land2c photos Entry is now crisply defined with a surround of fenced walls with an arched metal door repeating the home's architecture, The old porch support columns were reclad to create a grander entry. A lit address light was added, smooth new concrete walk, and welcoming plantings greet guests. The old maple tree has been well-pruned to allow more light into the entry. Plants are bright and have four seasons interest. The red fence will be painted matching black soon. The new entry was poured to meet the angle of the stair risers and the city sidewalk. The existing exposed aggregate concrete retaining walls were skimmed and painted to mimic the stucco finish of the house. The iron fencing will be all black. All now appears to be original to the home's era.

Low voltage landscape lights installed along driveway retaining wall. These downlights light the drive and provide safety and security to the property. Exterior lighting on estate home in Belle Meade, TN. Landscape landscape lighting and architectural lighting provided by Light Up Nashville

Meet the next generation of outdoor living with our impressively elegant doubled-sided wall. Boasting strong character and concrete durability Baltimore is picture-perfect for multi-level pavilions and can be used for vertical features such as planters, pillars, water and fire features. This double-sided wall will allow you to enjoy the striking beauty from all sides.

Allan block retaining wall and stairs. Beautiful azalea blooming agains the forest backdrop.
Inspiration for a modern shade backyard gravel retaining wall landscape in Vancouver.