Oasis in the Desert You can find a whole lot of fun ready for the kids in this fun contemporary play-yard in the dessert. Theme: The overall theme of the play-yard is a blend of creative and active outdoor play that blends with the contemporary styling of this beautiful home. Focus: The overall focus for the design of this amazing play-yard was to provide this family with an outdoor space that would foster an active and creative playtime for their children of various ages. The visual focus of this space is the 15-foot tree placed in the middle of the turf yard. This fantastic structure beacons the children to climb the mini stumps and enjoy the slide or swing happily from the branches all the while creating a touch of whimsical nature not typically found in the desert. Surrounding the tree the play-yard offers an array of activities for these lucky children from the chalkboard walls to create amazing pictures to the custom ball wall to practice their skills, the custom myWall system provides endless options for the kids and parents to keep the space exciting and new. Rock holds easily clip into the wall offering ever changing climbing routes, custom water toys and games can also be adapted to the wall to fit the fun of the day. Storage: The myWall system offers various storage options including shelving, closed cases or hanging baskets all of which can be moved to alternate locations on the wall as the homeowners want to customize the play-yard. Growth: The myWall system is built to grow with the users whether it is with changing taste, updating design or growing children, all the accessories can be moved or replaced while leaving the main frame in place. The materials used throughout the space were chosen for their durability and ability to withstand the harsh conditions for many years. The tree also includes 3 levels of swings offering children of varied ages the chance to swing from the branches. Safety: Safety is of critical concern with any play-yard and a space in the harsh conditions of the desert presented specific concerns which were addressed with light colored materials to reflect the sun and reduce heat buildup and stainless steel hardware was used to avoid rusting. The myWall accessories all use a locking mechanism which allows for easy adjustments but also securely locks the pieces into place once set. The flooring in the treehouse was also textured to eliminate skidding.

Louisa, San Clemente Coastal Modern Architecture The brief for this modern coastal home was to create a place where the clients and their children and their families could gather to enjoy all the beauty of living in Southern California. Maximizing the lot was key to unlocking the potential of this property so the decision was made to excavate the entire property to allow natural light and ventilation to circulate through the lower level of the home. A courtyard with a green wall and olive tree act as the lung for the building as the coastal breeze brings fresh air in and circulates out the old through the courtyard. The concept for the home was to be living on a deck, so the large expanse of glass doors fold away to allow a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoors and feeling of being out on the deck is felt on the interior. A huge cantilevered beam in the roof allows for corner to completely disappear as the home looks to a beautiful ocean view and Dana Point harbor in the distance. All of the spaces throughout the home have a connection to the outdoors and this creates a light, bright and healthy environment. Passive design principles were employed to ensure the building is as energy efficient as possible. Solar panels keep the building off the grid and and deep overhangs help in reducing the solar heat gains of the building. Ultimately this home has become a place that the families can all enjoy together as the grand kids create those memories of spending time at the beach. Images and Video by Aandid Media.

A Family Retreat in Rural Ontario The clients for this project live abroad, and sought a Canadian homestead — an anchor — for their large, young family. During summer and winter holidays, the parents wanted their children immersed in an Ontario landscape like the one in which they were raised. To this end, they requested a “rustic, modern retreat” for their 100-acre property of forest, wetland, and meadows. The family sought a generous home to allow young teenagers and extended family to be comfortable in a remote area for long stays. They sought a casual, comfortable space for the family and their dogs that would encourage activities like hiking and snowshoeing — no fancy entertaining. Under One Roof The most powerful aspect of the design is the long, tent-like roof, which follows the site’s topography. The roof and its ridge beam became the design’s primary focus, shaping the circulation path through the home’s interior, ultimately extending a view toward the forest. A primary technical challenge was the roof’s structure, which despite its 60-metre length needed to seem light. The folds and angles of the steel roof are supported by the meandering ridge-beam. The roof cantilevers and tapers at all edges. At the entry side of the house, the roof lifts like a bird’s wing off the garage volume beneath, sheltering an outdoor terrace. Playing with Heavy and Light Monolithic slate-clad volumes anchor the home and define the space between the curtains of glass. These opaque volumes echo the property’s rock outcrops. The garage, bathrooms, stairs, and pantry are grouped inside, and appear to hold up the dynamic roof. Steel construction was chosen to avoid using the expected material of heavy timber for this forest getaway. Being cognizant of the clients’ desire for a warm interior, it was also important to avoid modernist tendencies for box-like forms. Because the main floor is lifted above the ground and the topography falls away, the main floor is in the treetops while simultaneously filling the lower recreation area with light. A Contemporary Approach to Warmth and Closeness The continuous space of the home, with only bedrooms and bathrooms closed off, is a layout that underscores closeness. The family areas and parents’ area are on the main level. The kids’ bedrooms are bundled into a single slate-clad volume, suspended like a cocoon above the main floor from a 40’ steel beam and accessed by a catwalk. Sustainability To avoid cutting trees, the home was placed on an existing cleared ridge overlooking a wildflower meadow. The home is heated and cooled via a geothermal unit with summer solar gain reduced by significant roof overhangs. The glass walls are triple-pane, and high-efficiency fixtures and equipment for the well and septic system help reduce the home’s environmental impact. Historically, the Canadian identity has been defined by our relationship to the land. Fulfilling the client’s mandate, the home honours that emotional connection through visual and material harmonization with its surroundings.

The Smith’s hired us to do several home improvement projects to the exterior of their house, which were inspired by two other homes in the neighborhood. To start, they were looking to add a front porch with a more prominent entrance, as well as a garage eyebrow. In addition, since they were also not happy with the color of their home’s stucco or brick, we were asked to design a new color palette which would utilize the new window color, while also reducing the focus of the stucco. With that, since the homeowners were concerned about efficiency and making sure the house was properly maintained, they requested new windows, as well as new gutters, downspouts, and covers. Their siding was also an issue since a large portion of it had started to rot and since the rear sunroom and deck had sunk 4+ inches, structural issues were also a problem. Our Process: In an effort to create the pleasing exterior that was requested, we reached out to an architectural team member who helped us envision a four color paint palette. We installed a rustic cedar porch post, craftsman-style shutters, and metal roof details for a very pleasing result. As requested, we also installed all-new windows throughout the home and replaced their gutters, downspouts, and covers, as well as the siding that had rotted away. Since their deck was improperly installed, we removed the old sun room and deck footings, and poured new ones. However, I was not comfortable fixing the issue without knowing the cause, so upon closer inspection, we discovered that water from the neighbor’s house, the driveway, and the Smith’s roof was causing drainage issues. To fix the problem, we installed two main underground drainage lines which would divert water away from the home. From there, we were able to bring both structures to level heights where they could be properly secured and as a finishing touch, we added new tile to the sunroom to give it a more rustic feel. As a result of the drainage issues, a large section of the driveway had sunk as well, so we removed the concrete and poured it with proper underlayment, rebar, stronger concrete, and a proper pitch. Extras: While working at the home, the owners asked us to install a new wood-burning fireplace, as well as a new front door and an exhaust fan in the master bathroom. In addition, since we overheard the homeowner say that they wanted to be able to park their car in the garage, we made a point to organize it for them so there was adequate space for a vehicle. Result: The Smith’s had originally found us on Houzz.com and were incredibly pleased with our quality of work, as well as our ability to stay within their budget and stick to a set timeline. Not only did they give us an excellent review, but hugs were given upon our final goodbye as well. It was a great day.

Design: This Boulder family loved their home in Frasier Meadows for its generous yard and welcoming spirit. Set on nearly a third of an acre, it was a place for gardening, neighborhood connection, and board game nights with kids and friends. But while the property had heart, the interior felt dark in winter, disconnected from the backyard, and no longer aligned with how they lived. The kitchen was the biggest challenge. It lacked functionality, prep space, and the thoughtful storage needed for a family that hosts often. Through this Boulder home remodel, we made a bold move, relocating the kitchen to the opposite side of the house. This allowed us to create a hybrid enclosed kitchen with glass dividers: light-filled, but tucked away enough to reduce noise and conceal clutter. Designed in a Japandi-meets-cottage aesthetic, the kitchen balances warmth and minimalism with layered woods and soft greens. Appliance garages, ceiling-height cabinetry, hidden outlets, spice storage, pull-out trash bins, and a generous island ensure everything has its place. The dining and living spaces were reoriented to strengthen flow to the backyard, while a new genkan-inspired entry and custom mudroom cabinetry support their love of gardening. Build: As a design build Boulder team, collaboration guided every step. The homeowners knew exactly how they wanted to use their space; they simply needed the right structural and layout changes to bring it to life. Expanding the primary bedroom over the garage was transformative. The added square footage made room for built-in wardrobes, relocated laundry, and a Japanese-inspired ensuite featuring a wet room with a soaking tub. This expansion solved their need for space while creating a true retreat within the home. By moving the kitchen and enhancing indoor-outdoor flow, we addressed both function and feeling. The home now feels brighter, more connected to the yard, and better equipped for hosting, whether it’s casual weeknight dinners or full-house game nights. This thoughtful Boulder home remodel reflects a home that works beautifully as it gathers people together.

You can find a whole lot of fun ready for the kids in this fun contemporary play-yard. Theme: The overall theme of the play-yard is a blend of creative and active outdoor play that blends with the contemporary styling of this beautiful home. Focus: The overall focus for the design of this amazing play-yard was to provide this family with an outdoor space that would foster an active and creative playtime for their children of various ages. The visual focus of this space is the 15-foot tree placed in the middle of the turf yard. This fantastic structure beacons the children to climb the mini stumps and enjoy the slide or swing happily from the branches all the while creating a touch of whimsical nature. Surrounding the tree the play-yard offers an array of activities for these lucky children from the chalkboard walls to create amazing pictures to the custom ball wall to practice their skills, the custom myWall system provides endless options for the kids and parents to keep the space exciting and new. Rock holds easily clip into the wall offering ever changing climbing routes, custom water toys and games can also be adapted to the wall to fit the fun of the day. Storage: The myWall system offers various storage options including shelving, closed cases or hanging baskets all of which can be moved to alternate locations on the wall as the homeowners want to customize the play-yard. Growth: The myWall system is built to grow with the users whether it is with changing taste, updating design or growing children, all the accessories can be moved or replaced while leaving the main frame in place. The materials used throughout the space were chosen for their durability and ability to withstand the harsh conditions for many years. The tree also includes 3 levels of swings offering children of varied ages the chance to swing from the branches. Safety: Safety is of critical concern with any play-yard and a space in the harsh hot summers presented specific concerns which were addressed with light colored materials to reflect the sun and reduce heat buildup and stainless steel hardware was used to avoid rusting. The myWall accessories all use a locking mechanism which allows for easy adjustments but also securely locks the pieces into place once set. The flooring in the treehouse was also textured to eliminate skidding.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This colorful, water-wise landscape renovation refreshed a Ken Caryl North Ranch property backing to open space. Griffith Designs developed a personalized landscape solution that balanced the homeowners’ love of color with the need for resilient, low-maintenance plantings suited to foothills weather, challenging soil, open-space exposure and frequent wildlife—all within budget. The side and backyard garden beds were cleaned out and simplified by removing difficult or unwanted plants. Refreshed rock and new irrigation created a stronger foundation for colorful, drought-tolerant and deer-resistant perennials and seasonal shrubs. In the front yard, struggling sod was reduced and replaced with new hardscape, plantings and large landscape boulders that add structure and natural Colorado character. The project also restored existing hardscape by resetting loose pavers along the front walkway and patio and installing new polymeric sand. Expanded outdoor landscape lighting complements the home’s existing lighting, improving visibility while highlighting the renewed planting areas and hardscape after sunset. Important irrigation repairs and upgrades were completed throughout the property, including locating leaks, replacing sprinkler valves and updating the control box, backflow and system components. Irrigation was then adjusted and extended to serve the new landscape areas. The finished design gives this Ken Caryl North Ranch home a colorful, water-conscious landscape that is attractive, functional and better prepared for Colorado’s demanding foothills environment.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This colorful, water-wise landscape renovation refreshed a Ken Caryl North Ranch property backing to open space. Griffith Designs developed a personalized landscape solution that balanced the homeowners’ love of color with the need for resilient, low-maintenance plantings suited to foothills weather, challenging soil, open-space exposure and frequent wildlife—all within budget. The side and backyard garden beds were cleaned out and simplified by removing difficult or unwanted plants. Refreshed rock and new irrigation created a stronger foundation for colorful, drought-tolerant and deer-resistant perennials and seasonal shrubs. In the front yard, struggling sod was reduced and replaced with new hardscape, plantings and large landscape boulders that add structure and natural Colorado character. The project also restored existing hardscape by resetting loose pavers along the front walkway and patio and installing new polymeric sand. Expanded outdoor landscape lighting complements the home’s existing lighting, improving visibility while highlighting the renewed planting areas and hardscape after sunset. Important irrigation repairs and upgrades were completed throughout the property, including locating leaks, replacing sprinkler valves and updating the control box, backflow and system components. Irrigation was then adjusted and extended to serve the new landscape areas. The finished design gives this Ken Caryl North Ranch home a colorful, water-conscious landscape that is attractive, functional and better prepared for Colorado’s demanding foothills environment.

This colorful, water-wise landscape renovation refreshed a Ken Caryl North Ranch property backing to open space. Griffith Designs developed a personalized landscape solution that balanced the homeowners’ love of color with the need for resilient, low-maintenance plantings suited to foothills weather, challenging soil, open-space exposure and frequent wildlife—all within budget. The side and backyard garden beds were cleaned out and simplified by removing difficult or unwanted plants. Refreshed rock and new irrigation created a stronger foundation for colorful, drought-tolerant and deer-resistant perennials and seasonal shrubs. In the front yard, struggling sod was reduced and replaced with new hardscape, plantings and large landscape boulders that add structure and natural Colorado character. The project also restored existing hardscape by resetting loose pavers along the front walkway and patio and installing new polymeric sand. Expanded outdoor landscape lighting complements the home’s existing lighting, improving visibility while highlighting the renewed planting areas and hardscape after sunset. Important irrigation repairs and upgrades were completed throughout the property, including locating leaks, replacing sprinkler valves and updating the control box, backflow and system components. Irrigation was then adjusted and extended to serve the new landscape areas. The finished design gives this Ken Caryl North Ranch home a colorful, water-conscious landscape that is attractive, functional and better prepared for Colorado’s demanding foothills environment.

This colorful, water-wise landscape renovation refreshed a Ken Caryl North Ranch property backing to open space. Griffith Designs developed a personalized landscape solution that balanced the homeowners’ love of color with the need for resilient, low-maintenance plantings suited to foothills weather, challenging soil, open-space exposure and frequent wildlife—all within budget. The side and backyard garden beds were cleaned out and simplified by removing difficult or unwanted plants. Refreshed rock and new irrigation created a stronger foundation for colorful, drought-tolerant and deer-resistant perennials and seasonal shrubs. In the front yard, struggling sod was reduced and replaced with new hardscape, plantings and large landscape boulders that add structure and natural Colorado character. The project also restored existing hardscape by resetting loose pavers along the front walkway and patio and installing new polymeric sand. Expanded outdoor landscape lighting complements the home’s existing lighting, improving visibility while highlighting the renewed planting areas and hardscape after sunset. Important irrigation repairs and upgrades were completed throughout the property, including locating leaks, replacing sprinkler valves and updating the control box, backflow and system components. Irrigation was then adjusted and extended to serve the new landscape areas. The finished design gives this Ken Caryl North Ranch home a colorful, water-conscious landscape that is attractive, functional and better prepared for Colorado’s demanding foothills environment.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This colorful, water-wise landscape renovation refreshed a Ken Caryl North Ranch property backing to open space. Griffith Designs developed a personalized landscape solution that balanced the homeowners’ love of color with the need for resilient, low-maintenance plantings suited to foothills weather, challenging soil, open-space exposure and frequent wildlife—all within budget. The side and backyard garden beds were cleaned out and simplified by removing difficult or unwanted plants. Refreshed rock and new irrigation created a stronger foundation for colorful, drought-tolerant and deer-resistant perennials and seasonal shrubs. In the front yard, struggling sod was reduced and replaced with new hardscape, plantings and large landscape boulders that add structure and natural Colorado character. The project also restored existing hardscape by resetting loose pavers along the front walkway and patio and installing new polymeric sand. Expanded outdoor landscape lighting complements the home’s existing lighting, improving visibility while highlighting the renewed planting areas and hardscape after sunset. Important irrigation repairs and upgrades were completed throughout the property, including locating leaks, replacing sprinkler valves and updating the control box, backflow and system components. Irrigation was then adjusted and extended to serve the new landscape areas. The finished design gives this Ken Caryl North Ranch home a colorful, water-conscious landscape that is attractive, functional and better prepared for Colorado’s demanding foothills environment.

This colorful, water-wise landscape renovation refreshed a Ken Caryl North Ranch property backing to open space. Griffith Designs developed a personalized landscape solution that balanced the homeowners’ love of color with the need for resilient, low-maintenance plantings suited to foothills weather, challenging soil, open-space exposure and frequent wildlife—all within budget. The side and backyard garden beds were cleaned out and simplified by removing difficult or unwanted plants. Refreshed rock and new irrigation created a stronger foundation for colorful, drought-tolerant and deer-resistant perennials and seasonal shrubs. In the front yard, struggling sod was reduced and replaced with new hardscape, plantings and large landscape boulders that add structure and natural Colorado character. The project also restored existing hardscape by resetting loose pavers along the front walkway and patio and installing new polymeric sand. Expanded outdoor landscape lighting complements the home’s existing lighting, improving visibility while highlighting the renewed planting areas and hardscape after sunset. Important irrigation repairs and upgrades were completed throughout the property, including locating leaks, replacing sprinkler valves and updating the control box, backflow and system components. Irrigation was then adjusted and extended to serve the new landscape areas. The finished design gives this Ken Caryl North Ranch home a colorful, water-conscious landscape that is attractive, functional and better prepared for Colorado’s demanding foothills environment.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.

This Highlands Ranch xeriscape transformation replaced struggling front-yard sod with a water-wise landscape designed for the property’s challenging Colorado conditions. Located on a highly exposed corner lot near open space, the yard faced intense sun, strong winds and recurring bare areas where traditional turf was difficult to maintain. Griffith Designs created a more resilient solution that improves curb appeal while reducing dependence on water-intensive grass. The mature ash tree was carefully preserved and incorporated as an established focal point. After removing the failing sod, new landscape edging was installed to define the redesigned beds. A decorative dry stream built with specialty rock, a defined stone border and large landscape boulders adds natural structure, visual movement and year-round interest. Native and drought-tolerant shrubs, perennials and ornamental grasses provide seasonal color, texture and movement, while architectural yucca gives the landscape a distinctive Colorado character. The irrigation system was adjusted to support the new water-wise plantings and protect the long-term health of the existing ash tree. Griffith Designs also prepared the landscape design and HOA submittal package, helping guide the project through review and approval. Although the expanded scope exceeded the original target budget, the options and costs were discussed in advance and approved by the homeowner. The completed front-yard renovation delivers a polished, HOA-compliant xeriscape that is better suited to the site and easier to maintain.