These modest homeowners were looking for drainage solutions, low maintenance plantings, and an entertainment space they could enjoy outside. Mowing the grass had been a pain in the past, so with this design we decided to remove it entirely. Instead, more native grasses were utilized to take in water and reduce erosion. A new fence modernized and updated the space and allowed the interior of the backyard to be leveled providing more opportunities for design elements like a floating bench and custom built fire pit.

The owners of this traditional ranch home in an established neighborhood wanted an update to their landscape to create a more usable and modern space in keeping with the recent interior renovations. This custom designed ipe deck provides a nice transitional space between the indoor and outdoor. A new fence, gravel paving and rectilinear lines update the space and provide an opportunity for the owners cutting garden to shine.

This sloped garden was transforming into a modern outdoor retreat with a raised outdoor kitchen and dining area, hot tub, steel raised planters, and a flagstone patio with a fire table. Creative plant placement provides privacy from close urban neighbors and makes this space feel a world away.

The stunning white walls of this Rosemary Beach house contrast with the Mediterranean Blue tiles of the pool. The five scuppers pour a stream of sound into the small pool courtyard, providing an oasis in this busy neighborhood. The compact, native landscape provides year-round color and interest. Photographed by: Alan D. Holt

This pond is one in a series of three that captures rainwater from the roof run-off and filters greywater from the tub in the master bathroom. It provides water for the surrounding plants and draws wildlife onto the property for a drink. The decomposed granite pathways provide a stroll around the garden

A dry stacked stone wall provides separation from home and nearby driveway.

Design ideas for a large rustic drought-tolerant and full sun backyard landscaping in Richmond.

Wendy Wilson & Associates designed this floating roof element which provides sun and weather protection for the patio below while allowing in natural light.

Rainwater is celebrated as the focal point in this backyard garden. The angled deck provides enough space for a morning coffee, then transitions down onto a natural stone patio for large gatherings. A deep plant bed was created against the garage to showcase plant textures and soften the patio space. The curved edge of the patio mimics the irregular shape of the corner rain garden, with a gently sloping lawn in between the two spaces. Natural boulders form the edge of the rain garden, while swaths of rushes and other water-loving plants provide all season interest.

A string of small bioswales manages stormwater from the property higher on the hill, also from the slope of their own backyard. Native plants provide habitat while reducing erosion and slowing the movement of water across the property

Michael Moran
Deck - large contemporary three-story stucco white deck idea in DC Metro

Design ideas for a southwestern landscaping in Phoenix.

Access to the lake from this charming home required navigating a steep slope. db landscaping LLC was able to negotiate this terrain and provide comfortable lake access using oversized natural stone steps and landings that meander through native plant material. The upper patio space provides natural outdoor gathering space directly off the main living area and allows for a perched view of the lake beyond.

The owners of this traditional ranch home in an established neighborhood wanted an update to their landscape to create a more usable and modern space in keeping with the recent interior renovations. This custom designed ipe deck provides a nice transitional space between the indoor and outdoor. A new fence, line of trees in gravel and rectilinear lines update the space and provide an opportunity for the owners cutting garden to shine.

Photo and landscape design by Debbie Ballentine, Native Heart Landscapes

Wendy Wilson & Associates designed this floating roof element which provides sun and weather protection for the patio below while allowing in natural light.

Autumn fern, (Dryopteris erythrosora) in a woodland setting Le jardinet
Photo of a traditional landscaping in Seattle.

mid century modern residential landscaping. A double-sided outdoor fireplace creates two outdoor living spaces, which share a reflecting pool and custom ountain. In the front, a low horizontal fence delineates the space while mature native citrus and oak tress provide height and color.