A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

Caesar's Brother irises.
Photo of a traditional backyard landscaping in New York.

North Haven, CT. WITH MILD WINTERS and warm summers, Connecticut’s climate is ideal for living it up in the great outdoors. This family’s sizable and beautifully landscaped lot was enough to get them outside regularly, but it was not enough to keep them there for long. Desiring an outdoor design that would keep them comfortable and entertained through all the seasons, they hired Michael Gotowala, principal designer and president of Preferred Properties Landscaping and Masonry. Gotowala carved out space off the home and outfitted it with a full suite of open-air amenities. The main focus is the fully equipped kitchen, which includes a built-in DCS by Fisher & Paykel grill, a Summit refrigerator, a Tuscan pizza oven, a sink with Moen faucet, Danver cabinetry, trash pullout, and stone countertops. This sizzling setup makes both cooking family meals and entertaining guests a snap by putting everything they need for prep and cooking at their fingertips—no more running back and forth into the house. For more inspiring outdoor kitchen projects go to THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by Preferred Properties. www.OUTDOORKITCHENDESIGNER.com Michael Gotowala founder of THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN DESIGN STORE by Preferred Properties

The exciting new Southgate™ Rhododendrons are heat tolerant and thrive in the Deep South while performing equally well in traditional Rhododendron areas. FEATURES Bloom/Feature Deep pink buds open to white Plant Type Shrubs Evergreen or Deciduous Evergreen USDA Zones 6,7,8,9 Zone Detail Hardy to -10 F Key Features Heat tolerance, attracts birds/butterflies, year-round interest, dwarf Use Accent, container, mass planting, slope, hedge Exposure Part shade to shade Bloom Season Spring Dimension 4-6' H x 4-6' W Growth Rate Slow to moderate CARE Water Regular water Soil Type Well-drained garden soil Fertilizer Early spring Pruning Shape after spring bloom PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS water before planting plant in part shade to shade dig hole 3X the width of pot, backfill and plant 1”-2” above soil level water and add more soil if needed mulch plants

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

This Patio was enclosed with Eze-Breeze Porch Panels that allow homeowners to use their patio/porch during summertime like a regular screened porch or engage the four-track sashes to create a warm room during winter months. The four- sashes lift and lower to create a 75% ventilated space during summer months. The close to block pollen, wind, and rain during unfavorable weather. See our website for more information about turning your patio into a four season room.

Brilliant star-shaped crimson blooms blaze against glossy green leaves on this dense growing shrub. Illicium is deer resistant. FEATURES Bloom/Feature Star-shaped crimson blooms, compact and dense growth habit Plant Type Shrubs Evergreen or Deciduous Evergreen USDA Zones 7,8,9,10 Zone Detail Hardy to 0°F USDA Zones 7-10 Key Features Use Exposure Part shade to full shade Bloom Season Spring Dimension 4-6' H x 3-4' W Growth Rate Moderate CARE Water Regular Water Soil Type Well-drained Garden Soil Fertilizer Apply a balanced slow-release each spring Pruning Prune after spring bloom PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS water before planting plant in part shade to full shade dig hole 2X the width of pot, backfill and plant 1”-2” above soil level water and add more soil if needed mulch plants; fertilize in early spring

An outstanding abelia with bright variegated foliage that is yellow with green centers when young, maturing to ivory and green. Produces a heavy bloom of light pink flowers for a long period of summer and fall. FEATURES Bloom/Feature White to pale pink flowers Plant Type Shrubs Evergreen or Deciduous Deciduous USDA Zones 6,7,8,9 Zone Detail Hardy to -10° F Key Features Green, gold, & yellow variegated leaves Use Cottage/informal, beds and borders, low maintenance, containers, wallside and trellises Exposure Full sun to part shade Bloom Season Mid-summer to fall Dimension 3' H x 4' W Growth Rate Moderate CARE Water Regular water Soil Type Any well-drained soil Fertilizer As needed Pruning Prune if desired but not required PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS water before planting plant in full sun to part shade dig hole 2X the width of pot backfill and plant 1”-2” above soil level water and add more soil if needed mulch plants

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

The exciting new Southgate™ Rhododendrons are heat tolerant and thrive in the Deep South while performing equally well in traditional Rhododendron areas. FEATURES Bloom/Feature Medium pink buds open to white with prominent maroon blotch Plant Type Shrubs Evergreen or Deciduous Evergreen USDA Zones 6,7,8,9 Zone Detail Hardy to -10 F Key Features Heat tolerance, attracts birds/butterflies, year-round interest, dwarf Use Accent, container, mass planting, slope, hedge Exposure Part sun to shade Bloom Season Spring Dimension 4-5' H x 4-5' W Growth Rate Slow to moderate CARE Water Regular water Soil Type Well-drained garden soil Fertilizer Early spring Pruning Shape after spring bloom PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS water before planting plant in part shade to shade dig hole 3X the width of pot, backfill and plant 1”-2” above soil level water and add more soil if needed mulch plants

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

Deep Purple flowers cover these tough plants from early spring to frost. Like her cousin Wendy’s Wish Salvia, this Salvia will form a ball of color in your yard, with no pruning or deadheading. A portion of plant proceeds go to Make-A-Wish® AU. FEATURES Bloom/Feature Dark purple flowers bloom year-round in frost-free climates, or until frost Plant Type Perennials Evergreen or Deciduous Herbaceous USDA Zones 9b, 10 Zone Detail Hardy to 25°F USDA zones 9b-10 Key Features Blooms won't fade in the heat; forming a ball of color with no pruning or deadheading Use Perennial, borders, garden beds, containers Exposure Full sun to part shade Bloom Season Year-round in frost-free climates, or until frost Dimension 3-4’ H x 3' W Growth Rate Fast in spring and summer CARE Water Moderate to regular water Soil Type Well-drained garden soil Fertilizer Apply a balanced slow release each spring Pruning Cut back to 3" in early spring to maintain shape PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS • water before planting • plant in full sun to part shade • dig hole 2X the width of pot, • backfill and plant 1”-2” above soil level • water and add more soil if needed • mulch around plants

With Pinterest, Houzz and HGTV, homeowners have more sources for inspiration than ever before. You may have found, however, that replicating what you see online or on TV isn’t always that simple. Mastering proportion and scale can be especially challenging. Let’s say you fall in love with an oversized vase which looks like it will fit with the colors and textures in your living room. But once it’s there, the vase doesn’t look the way you expected and you don’t know now to make it work. Fortunately, designers are experienced not only in dealing with proportion and scale, but in handling multiple elements at once. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you understand some of the considerations regarding size. Proportion Tips 1. Less is more In the home shown here, the rooms are on the smaller side, where it would seem counterintuitive to use oversized pieces. But using smaller pieces can look busy—and can actually make the rooms feel smaller, especially when you add personal belongings to the space. 2. Keep it simple Several oversized pieces can create clean, simple lines. We put this principle to work using oversized items as anchors on both sides of the fireplace in the living room. On one side, we have two oversized blown-glass vases with amber, silver and purple tones. The irregular shapes in these beautiful pieces create interest and contrast; you can see through them and you can see the room reflected in them. On the other side of the fireplace sit two oversized brass lanterns filled with driftwood and greenery; the contents can be switched out seasonally, as well. The vases on one side and lanterns on the other side establish pattern (two of each, in descending order), balance and simplicity. 3. Embrace the unexpected On the mantle above the fireplace rests another oversized piece—a painting of a barn. Its neutral colors pick up the tones in the stone behind it and again, it works to bring simplicity to the space, rather than overly fussy detail. Nearby, just up the stairs, is an unusually spacious landing. A bench and pillows transform it into a special reading or conversation spot. The pair of hammered nickel vases on the window sill repeats the pattern established on either side of the fireplace. Using oversized vases in lieu of a window treatment is unexpected—as is incorporating sleek, modern-shaped vases like these in a farmhouse-style home. Yet because of the other oversized objects nearby, the vases feel distinctive and delightful. 4. Coordinate pattern and rhythm Another oversized item is the table lamp in the living room. It’s a powerful light; aside from the overhead can lights, it’s the room’s only light source. The ridges on its ceramic base echo the pieces of wicker in the stunning basket behind the sofa. This oversized wicker basket, which we’re a bit in love with, features a very large weave along with elegant leather straps. It’s ideal for storing throws, cushions, board games or anything else you want out of sight. 5. Proximity matters This home’s dining room is just to the right of the entry. An immense floor mirror—double-framed in weathered wood—is placed opposite the front windows. Measuring seven feet high, it’s a bold piece. And it works perfectly in this space to reflect light and make the room feel larger. An oversized ceramic vase, with a porous, matte-stone finish, sits atop a table next to the mirror. Other regular-sized items share the small table, including a bottle of wine and a glass vase. But because of the enormous mirror, it was important to have one oversized item on that table, for balance.

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

Large, historic home from the 1930's overlooking downtown Santa Cruz. My clients are self-described "plantaholics" and tend to buy many plants, only to have them die. They have an extensive gardening area and low water budget. Our main goal was to make the overall design cohesive between various areas of the garden while utilizing interesting and unusual plant selections - a very fun project for me! We removed over 3,000 square feet of traditional grass and replaced it with several lawn alternatives. The first is a walkable groundcover that uses a fraction of the water of regular grass (and can be seen here in several seasons, one of which has tiny flowers); The second is a California native grass that grows long (or can be kept short) and can tolerate some shade. Both of these are excellent choices for clients with children or dogs who want a green patch without using excessive water. My clients love plants from Australia and South Africa so plants from the Proteacea and other Southern Hemisphere beauties are used predominantly throughout the project. Clean, flowing water is so important for wildlife and the beautiful stone fountain is a constant gathering spot for birds and other animals. My clients are beyond thrilled with their gorgeous, nature-filled garden and ever-expanding plant knowledge.

A transitional backyard in Beaconsfield now blends modern clean lines with timeless warmth. Center-stage, a custom concrete pool features an oversized beach entry that invites relaxed lounging and easy access for children. A gentle spill-over waterfall and paired water feature add soothing movement, while frameless glass railings keep the view open to the surrounding gardens. Herringbone pavers, laid in warm neutral tones, ground the space with classic character and provide a slip-resistant surface from pool edge to dining terrace. At dusk, a bespoke concrete fire feature anchors an intimate seating area, turning the patio into a four-season gathering spot. Layered plantings and accent lighting soften the hardscape and tie the traditional brick façade of the home to its modern architectural accents. Craftsmanship of this caliber is a signature of The Northstone Group. The firm is ranked #1 for landscaping on bestinMTL.com and recognized as the leading pool design and building company on bestmontrealservices.com. Its projects are regularly featured in Dwell, House & Home, and the Montreal Gazette, underscoring Northstone’s position as Montreal’s premier landscape and pool design-build specialist.

Photo: Janice Tucker for Santa Fe Botanical Garden Growth habit of alkali sacaton Sporobolus airoides taken at Leonora Curtin Wetland Preserve, Santa Fe, NM (La Cienega), a Santa Fe Botanical Garden site.