The pool’s original semi-circular walk-in steps did not go with the new geometric look, so new rectangular steps plus a large underwater bench were installed conveniently beside the spa. When not in use, a gentle stream of water flows over the spa’s notched spillway and recirculates into the pool.

Design ideas for a large mediterranean backyard stone formal garden in Santa Barbara.

This challenging site near Wolf Trap had an existing swimming pool at the end of the property. With twelve feet of grade change across the backyard, our landscape design dilemma was; how to connect the new pool with the house, create lots of living space, and still get people to the landscape below. The entire rear of the house was renovated, giving us an opportunity to build a new composite multi-level deck. We crafted a covered living space under the deck and sunroom. Techo-Bloc pavers, a stone dive rock at the deep end and the natural stream bed with waterfalls that cascades into the pool. Photography by Mike Bonomo

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.

What a way to stretch your legs! In true Japanese Garden style, we carefully selected large natural stones that offered an ideal walking surface and appropriate size. Isn’t this a really graceful way to cross over the pond we designed and built? www.deckandpatio.com

This challenging site near Wolf Trap had an existing swimming pool at the end of the property. With twelve feet of grade change across the backyard, our landscape design dilemma was; how to connect the new pool with the house, create lots of living space, and still get people to the landscape below. The entire rear of the house was renovated, giving us an opportunity to build a new composite multi-level deck. We crafted a covered living space under the deck and sunroom. Techo-Bloc pavers, a stone dive rock at the deep end and the natural stream bed with waterfalls that cascades into the pool. Photography by Mike Bonomo

Craig Thompson
Huge elegant exterior home photo

For this “pond-less” waterfall and stream, the water required to keep it topped off and refreshed is harvested from the roof of the clients’ house. “Such a water feature is run entirely without using city water,” says Dave Stockwell, owner of Deck and Patio. “It acts as a ‘green’ maintenance-free source that operates daily March through December. “And any excess harvested rainwater can be used for irrigation of the property.” Environmentally-Friendly Backyard Ponds Backyard ponds with waterfalls and streams can also be created in eco-friendly ways so they not only do no harm, but also help improve the environment. Fish ponds, for example, naturally attract — and provide a haven for — other wildlife that children (as well as adults) love: frogs, salamanders, song birds, etc. Of course, all these creatures are delightful to watch and listen to. More than that, their presence offer natural ways to a healthier environment. Frogs eat algae in the water which contributes to keeping the water clean; adult toads aid in controlling insects, as do the birds the water attracts; and the koi, which are so much fun to feed, eat any mosquito larva that might develop. www.deckandpatio.com

OLSEN RESIDENCE Location: Grand Rapids, MI Scope: Design & Installation Features: Multi-tier water feature with stream and pools, integrated paver and flagstone decks, segmental retaining, boulder retaining, natural stone steps, specimen plant material.

The main goals of this project was to make it more usable and enjoyable for the owner, to reduce maintenance and to created a covered area for enjoyment year-round. This design also kept the family's new puppy in mind - fencing it in for safety and planting with careful consideration of plants that are safe for dogs. The winding pathway for humans is reminiscent of a stream bed and there is also a narrow perimeter fence specifically for the pup! Ben Park

Design ideas for a mid-sized traditional drought-tolerant and full sun front yard garden path in New York.

OLSEN RESIDENCE Location: Grand Rapids, MI Scope: Design & Installation Features: Multi-tier water feature with stream and pools, integrated paver and flagstone decks, segmental retaining, boulder retaining, natural stone steps, specimen plant material.

Photo of a mid-sized traditional drought-tolerant and full sun front yard garden path in New York.

Photo of a mid-sized traditional drought-tolerant and full sun front yard garden path in New York.

Photo of a mid-sized traditional drought-tolerant and full sun front yard garden path in New York.

This new construction estate by Hanna Homes is prominently situated on Buccaneer Palm Waterway with a fantastic private deep-water dock, spectacular tropical grounds, and every high-end amenity you desire. The impeccably outfitted 9,500+ square foot home features 6 bedroom suites, each with its own private bathroom. The gourmet kitchen, clubroom, and living room are banked with 12′ windows that stream with sunlight and afford fabulous pool and water views. The formal dining room has a designer chandelier and is serviced by a chic glass temperature-controlled wine room. There’s also a private office area and a handsome club room with a fully-equipped custom bar, media lounge, and game space. The second-floor loft living room has a dedicated snack bar and is the perfect spot for winding down and catching up on your favorite shows.⁠⠀ ⁠⠀ The grounds are beautifully designed with tropical and mature landscaping affording great privacy, with unobstructed waterway views. A heated resort-style pool/spa is accented with glass tiles and a beautiful bright deck. A large covered terrace houses a built-in summer kitchen and raised floor with wood tile. The home features 4.5 air-conditioned garages opening to a gated granite paver motor court. This is a remarkable home in Boca Raton’s finest community.⁠⠀

Here you can see the garden in full greens in Summer. The River Birch helps to make the outdoor seating space feel secluded from the rest of the yard.

OLSEN RESIDENCE Location: Grand Rapids, MI Scope: Design & Installation Features: Multi-tier water feature with stream and pools, integrated paver and flagstone decks, segmental retaining, boulder retaining, natural stone steps, specimen plant material.

This challenging site near Wolf Trap had an existing swimming pool at the end of the property. With twelve feet of grade change across the backyard, our landscape design dilemma was; how to connect the new pool with the house, create lots of living space, and still get people to the landscape below. The entire rear of the house was renovated, giving us an opportunity to build a new composite multi-level deck. We crafted a covered living space under the deck and sunroom. Techo-Bloc pavers, a stone dive rock at the deep end and the natural stream bed with waterfalls that cascades into the pool. Photography by Mike Bonomo