The key to forest bathing is to create or update spaces as they appear in nature — and add only amenities that fit naturally in that environment. In this case, Deck and Patio added a bridge, water feature, imported boulders and rocks and landscaped it with robust plantings. It feels like you are in upstate New York, in the mountains. Yet, it’s right in our clients’ backyard. www.deckandpatio.com

Pictured is the Sandstone Rain Barrel that is used to capture the water flowing from your gutters so that it can be used for later use. Aquascape Inc.

Step into a modern living space where sleek design meets cozy comfort, anchored by a striking black tiled fireplace. The room is bathed in natural light streaming through expansive windows, accentuating the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic.

The long, narrow pavers were inspired by Japanese and Northwest landscaping: Stone and grass surround a 3-foot-wide by 15-foot-long steel-line reflection pond that spills into three streams. The use of wood and calm colors to create indoor-outdoor living space are signature features of Suteki America-designed homes. Photo: Reto Media

Craig Thompson
Huge elegant backyard brick and custom-shaped natural pool house photo

Pictured is a RainXchange™ system with AquaBlox® installed below to capture and store rain water. The basalt column fountain is constantly moving and aerating the stored water. Aquascape Inc.

Deck and Patio specializes in installing systems that capture, filter, and recirculate rainwater, in sufficient amounts that also supply and keep topped off peaceful water features. This project, for example, includes a stream and multiple waterfalls — all recirculated through the same Aquascape Rainwater Harvesting water collection system. City water is not used. The feature attracts desirable wildlife such as frogs, butterflies, birds etc. creating a delightful wildlife refuge. The captured rainwater works together with the carefully chosen plants, fish, rocks and gravel, to maintain a balanced system for long-term sustainability. www.deckandpatio.com

360-Vip Photography - Dean Riedel Schrader & Co - Remodeler
Inspiration for a mid-sized eclectic open concept light wood floor and yellow floor family room remodel in Minneapolis with blue walls, a standard fireplace, a tile fireplace and a wall-mounted tv

This transitional space perfectly balance classic structure with modern comfort. Natural light streams in through large windows with plantation shutters, highlighting the varied textures of the furniture and rug. The clever use of brown accents on the ceiling and built-ins contrasts beautifully with the brought white walls, adding depth and drama.

Jay Archer
Mid-sized elegant courtyard stone patio container garden photo in New York

Any child fortunate enough to grow up with the ability to explore nature never loses love for the outdoors and the beauty of Mother Earth. Photo: Courtesy of Aquascape Inc. www.deckandpatio.com

VanBrouck & Associates: Inspired by the classical architecture of Palladio, this Italian villa was designed with a procession of beautifully proportioned, ordered spaces, with strong axial sightlines, to draw the eye through the spaces and beckon the individual to explore. Beautifully sited on acreage, the interior and exterior spaces are thoughtfully orchestrated to interact together, and to connect to the land. Stone loggias, at the entry, rear, and side of the residence, visually and literally extend the interior living spaces. View-lines extend through the house from the open courtyard and infinite landscape vistas of the front to the wooded terrain of the rear. Gentle cross-breezes flow and natural light streams into the rooms from a series of French doors lyrically arranged throughout the spaces.

The grand stone veneer wall gives way to an entrance of equal luxury, a pathway of Ipe wood decking crosses a stream, babbling between two flowing water walls, through exotic tropical landscaping to welcome you home. Photo: Geza Darrah

Photography by ibi designs ( http://www.ibidesigns.com)
Example of a huge island style backyard patio design in Miami with a fireplace, decking and a gazebo

Indeed, Marc Wiener successfully incorporate water features into the existing landscape. When considering color and texture he applied his extensive expertise on how plant material will eventually grow. Here we see low-lying evergreens and ground cover perennials in and around the stream and rock outcroppings which soften the large boulders, which he says would “otherwise stand out and detract from the overall intent of looking ‘natural.’” Larger flowering plantings were installed behind the water feature to provide accenting and screening. On lower portions of the slope, the water feature was planted with flowers for cutting and small beds for annuals so the client could interact with the stream garden throughout the season. www.deckandpatio.com

Craig Thompson
Patio - huge traditional backyard stone patio idea with a fire pit and a gazebo

Pembrooke Fine Landscapes designed and built this outdoor sports bar in East Hampton, NY. The custom designed space include a full kitchen, fireplace, USTA standard tennis court and heated unite pool and spa. The kitchen features several high-end elements including a kegerator, wine refrigerator, ice maker, grill, dishwasher and full stove. The pavilon is fully integrated with a Lutron entertainment system for all of the TVs. The audio and video can stream movies, music and TV. The space also features an changing area, bathroom and outdoor shower.

The glass-wrapped living room, which cantilevers over a small stream, was restored, including the original wood ceilings and the circular fireplace surround. New energy-efficient glazing replaced the existing.

D.A. Horchner / Design Workshop, Inc.
Large mountain style front yard stone full sun home design photo for fall in Denver