During excavation for this new modern home, large granite boulders rose to the surface from the primordial hillside. Instead of displacing these monoliths from the site from which they were created, they were arranged to define space. A circle of boulders stand guard around a custom built fire pit, providing protection from the wind while offering a place to climb or sit. The extended landscape view from the lawn is kept intact by the introduction of a ha-ha, a traditional landscape feature, that hides the productive garden and keeps it from breaking the view. Native and drought tolerant plantings hug the outer edges of the property for minimal use of irrigation and to visually blend into the surrounding hillside. This project also features a custom ipe bench with integrated lighting, waterjet address numbers with night lighting, and hardscape that complements the form and materiality of the architecture to create a harmonious transition into the horizontal plane. Photography: Louie Jeon Photography

Mystical Landscapes is a Marin based design and installation company that assists clients with all their landscape and site development needs including driveways, lighting, decks, play structures and retaining walls. Landscape designer Dane Rose offers excellent garden design and installation. Mystical Landscapes is a top Marin Landscape Architect, Marin Landscape Designer and Marin Landscape Contractor. http://www.mysticallandscapes.com/

Mystical Landscapes is a Marin based design and installation company that assists clients with all their landscape and site development needs including driveways, lighting, decks, play structures and retaining walls. Landscape designer Dane Rose offers excellent garden design and installation. Mystical Landscapes is a top Marin Landscape Architect, Marin Landscape Designer and Marin Landscape Contractor. http://www.mysticallandscapes.com/

Nestled at the top of a steeply sloped wooded site, this backyard retreat offers a quiet sanctuary tucked away in a busy west Austin neighborhood. This efficiently planned accessory dwelling unit comprises a bedroom, bath, kitchen and living area. The approach to the retreat is via a winding path up the woodland hill that arrives at a generous wrap-around porch. The path and porch are connected by a small bridge that negotiates the difference in terrain and provides an experiential cue of transitioning to a secluded and protected environment. Tall interior spaces give a sense of airiness to each room while the kitchen window seat provides views into the surrounding trees. Interior finishes include post-oak flooring, handmade ceramic tile, stone countertops, and custom millwork wainscoting, evoking a cottage-like domesticity that enhances the sense of solitude and rejuvenation from the pressures and stress of the everyday world.

Nestled at the top of a steeply sloped wooded site, this backyard retreat offers a quiet sanctuary tucked away in a busy west Austin neighborhood. This efficiently planned accessory dwelling unit comprises a bedroom, bath, kitchen and living area. The approach to the retreat is via a winding path up the woodland hill that arrives at a generous wrap-around porch. The path and porch are connected by a small bridge that negotiates the difference in terrain and provides an experiential cue of transitioning to a secluded and protected environment. Tall interior spaces give a sense of airiness to each room while the kitchen window seat provides views into the surrounding trees. Interior finishes include post-oak flooring, handmade ceramic tile, stone countertops, and custom millwork wainscoting, evoking a cottage-like domesticity that enhances the sense of solitude and rejuvenation from the pressures and stress of the everyday world.

This outdoor dining terrace extends directly from the formal dining room, seamlessly expanding the home’s entertaining experience into the landscape. Sheltered by the upper‑level terrace above, the space feels intimate yet open, offering year‑round usability. Positioned on a gently sloping site, the terrace sits high among the trees, creating the serene sensation of dining within the canopy. Terra‑cotta flooring with hand‑set Spanish tile inlays introduces warmth and artisanal detail, while the wrought‑iron railing reinforces the home’s Old-World character. Together, these elements ground the terrace in timeless craftsmanship and complement the surrounding natural views.

Nestled at the top of a steeply sloped wooded site, this backyard retreat offers a quiet sanctuary tucked away in a busy west Austin neighborhood. This efficiently planned accessory dwelling unit comprises a bedroom, bath, kitchen and living area. The approach to the retreat is via a winding path up the woodland hill that arrives at a generous wrap-around porch. The path and porch are connected by a small bridge that negotiates the difference in terrain and provides an experiential cue of transitioning to a secluded and protected environment. Tall interior spaces give a sense of airiness to each room while the kitchen window seat provides views into the surrounding trees. Interior finishes include post-oak flooring, handmade ceramic tile, stone countertops, and custom millwork wainscoting, evoking a cottage-like domesticity that enhances the sense of solitude and rejuvenation from the pressures and stress of the everyday world.

Mystical Landscapes is a Marin based design and installation company that assists clients with all their landscape and site development needs including driveways, lighting, decks, play structures and retaining walls. Landscape designer Dane Rose offers excellent garden design and installation. Mystical Landscapes is a top Marin Landscape Architect, Marin Landscape Designer and Marin Landscape Contractor. http://www.mysticallandscapes.com/

Nestled at the top of a steeply sloped wooded site, this backyard retreat offers a quiet sanctuary tucked away in a busy west Austin neighborhood. This efficiently planned accessory dwelling unit comprises a bedroom, bath, kitchen and living area. The approach to the retreat is via a winding path up the woodland hill that arrives at a generous wrap-around porch. The path and porch are connected by a small bridge that negotiates the difference in terrain and provides an experiential cue of transitioning to a secluded and protected environment. Tall interior spaces give a sense of airiness to each room while the kitchen window seat provides views into the surrounding trees. Interior finishes include post-oak flooring, handmade ceramic tile, stone countertops, and custom millwork wainscoting, evoking a cottage-like domesticity that enhances the sense of solitude and rejuvenation from the pressures and stress of the everyday world.

4 beds 5 baths 4,447 sqft RARE FIND! NEW HIGH-TECH, LAKE FRONT CONSTRUCTION ON HIGHLY DESIRABLE WINDERMERE CHAIN OF LAKES. This unique home site offers the opportunity to enjoy lakefront living on a private cove with the beauty and ambiance of a classic "Old Florida" home. With 150 feet of lake frontage, this is a very private lot with spacious grounds, gorgeous landscaping, and mature oaks. This acre plus parcel offers the beauty of the Butler Chain, no HOA, and turn key convenience. High-tech smart house amenities and the designer furnishings are included. Natural light defines the family area featuring wide plank hickory hardwood flooring, gas fireplace, tongue and groove ceilings, and a rear wall of disappearing glass opening to the covered lanai. The gourmet kitchen features a Wolf cooktop, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and Bosch dishwasher, exotic granite counter tops, a walk in pantry, and custom built cabinetry. The office features wood beamed ceilings. With an emphasis on Florida living the large covered lanai with summer kitchen, complete with Viking grill, fridge, and stone gas fireplace, overlook the sparkling salt system pool and cascading spa with sparkling lake views and dock with lift. The private master suite and luxurious master bath include granite vanities, a vessel tub, and walk in shower. Energy saving and organic with 6-zone HVAC system and Nest thermostats, low E double paned windows, tankless hot water heaters, spray foam insulation, whole house generator, and security with cameras. Property can be gated.

When our landscape and design team first visited this property, we were immediately struck by the potential for transformation. Though the land was a blank slate at the time, our experienced eyes knew that this site could be something truly extraordinary. We saw a chance to craft an outdoor oasis, one that would be carefully tailored to the tastes of its owners and one that would stand out from any other in the neighborhood. Our team recognized that they could create a unique, inviting space where family and friends could come together to relax. With each passing thought, we felt more inspired to bring this project to life — there was no limit as to what we could create! From deciding on which plants, hardscapes and lighting features should go where, this job offered us an opportunity for true landscape magic.

Mystical Landscapes is a Marin based design and installation company that assists clients with all their landscape and site development needs including driveways, lighting, decks, play structures and retaining walls. Landscape designer Dane Rose offers excellent garden design and installation. Mystical Landscapes is a top Marin Landscape Architect, Marin Landscape Designer and Marin Landscape Contractor. http://www.mysticallandscapes.com/

When our landscape and design team first visited this property, we were immediately struck by the potential for transformation. Though the land was a blank slate at the time, our experienced eyes knew that this site could be something truly extraordinary. We saw a chance to craft an outdoor oasis, one that would be carefully tailored to the tastes of its owners and one that would stand out from any other in the neighborhood. Our team recognized that they could create a unique, inviting space where family and friends could come together to relax. With each passing thought, we felt more inspired to bring this project to life — there was no limit as to what we could create! From deciding on which plants, hardscapes and lighting features should go where, this job offered us an opportunity for true landscape magic.

This outdoor dining terrace extends directly from the formal dining room, seamlessly expanding the home’s entertaining experience into the landscape. Sheltered by the upper‑level terrace above, the space feels intimate yet open, offering year‑round usability. Positioned on a gently sloping site, the terrace sits high among the trees, creating the serene sensation of dining within the canopy. Terra‑cotta flooring with hand‑set Spanish tile inlays introduces warmth and artisanal detail, while the wrought‑iron railing reinforces the home’s Old-World character. Together, these elements ground the terrace in timeless craftsmanship and complement the surrounding natural views.

This project located in Muskoka blends modern sophistication into the natural setting. Due to the adjacent lake and forest environments, a great deal of care was taken to ensure there were no impacts on these sensitive environments. The blast rock was salvaged to create “planting pockets” on the steep slopes allowing for nearly 700 mature trees to be craned into these locations. Working with local arborists, native species of trees and understory planting were selected to ensure ecosystems weren’t negatively impacted. East of the residence, Poolscape Inc. constructed a cast-in-place, vanishing edge pool that was formed to sit above a 1200sqft. underground concrete bunker. The bunker houses the pool equipment & boiler, as-well-as site utility controllers for site irrigation and lighting. Surrounding the pool and wrapping around the residence, extensive concrete slabs were poured and granite tiles laid to create multilevel patios and walkways. Areas of the patios overlooking the lake cantilevered out over the edge of the rock face and required the installation of custom iron and glass railings between stone pillars to provide safety due to the severity of the slope. On the west side of the site, a penetration asphalt sport court surface was suspended atop a 4-car concrete garage, more than 45ft above grade level. Enclosed by chain-link fencing, this elevated “sky-court” offers a stunning setting for recreational play. Working with a local contractor, an existing dock was removed by barge, and a new steel frame was constructed while the lake was frozen. ‘Off-season’ prep-work allowed for seamless continuation of work in the spring when the dock surface, ipe, was installed. Shaped to provide a protected swimming area, the three boat-slip dock is complete with barbecue, built-in umbrella, flush mounted light fixtures, and custom pedestal that provides power and water to boats while docked. To permit easy access between the residence and dock, natural Muskoka granite steps were craned in to create a safe path down the steep slope.

A Light and airy space that works as a mudroom and "hidden" Laundry room that offers plenty of storage. Hidden stacked washer and dryer work beautifully within this charming space. Black bronze/black hardware ties in with the transitional colonial feel of the home. Baskets for hats and gloves/gardening items stored below while also providing a deep pullout drawer for shoes and boots. A great space for sitting with coat alcove beside it. Photos by Alicia's Art, LLC RUDLOFF Custom Builders, is a residential construction company that connects with clients early in the design phase to ensure every detail of your project is captured just as you imagined. RUDLOFF Custom Builders will create the project of your dreams that is executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsman, while creating lifetime client relationships that are build on trust and integrity. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area including West Chester, Gladwynne, Malvern, Wayne, Haverford and more. As a 6 time Best of Houzz winner, we look forward to working with you on your next project.

Residing on the shores of Canobie Lake, this custom-designed lakefront home represents a refined balance between architectural precision, site constraints, and the Client’s vision for everyday living and entertaining. Situated on a compact 0.62-acre sloped lot, the project presented a clear and demanding challenge: every room in the home was required to capture a meaningful view of the lake. RWH Architect addressed this challenge by carefully angling the home’s footprint to maximize the site’s 130 feet of waterfront while framing expansive views of sunsets and seasonal fireworks. The resulting form embraces the slope of the land, allowing the architecture to step naturally with the terrain while opening interior spaces toward the water. This strategic orientation ensured that no space felt disconnected from the lake, transforming the view into a defining architectural element rather than an afterthought. Designed with entertaining at its core, the home features open-concept living spaces that flow effortlessly toward the shoreline. The kitchen anchors the main living level with top-of-the-line appliances and generous workspace, supporting both daily use and large gatherings. A sleek linear propane fireplace defines the living room seating area, adding warmth without interrupting sightlines to the water beyond. Large expanses of glass dissolve the boundary between indoors and out, guiding guests toward uninterrupted lake views from nearly every vantage point. The first-floor primary suite is conceived as a private retreat, combining comfort and luxury with direct visual and physical connections to the lake. Expansive glass doors open toward the shoreline, while the suite includes a walk-in closet, a spa-inspired bathroom with walk-in shower, and a double vanity, all oriented to maintain a sense of calm and retreat. On the second floor, guest bedrooms continue the home’s commitment to water-focused design, each offering panoramic lake views. Two full bathrooms and a welcoming den create flexible spaces for family and guests, reinforcing the home’s role as both a personal residence and a destination for gathering. A two-car garage provides protected parking and ample storage for lake equipment, completing a design that is both elegant and highly functional. Through thoughtful planning and a deep understanding of the site, RWH Architect transformed a challenging footprint into a cohesive lakefront home where architecture, landscape, and lifestyle are seamlessly aligned.

Designed for a family who is relocating back to California, this contemporary residence sits atop a severely steep site in the community of Las Ventanas. Working with the topography led to some creative design solutions, structurally and aesthetically, to accommodate all of the family’s programatic needs. The 4127 s.f. home fits into the relatively small building footprint while an infinity edge pool cantilevers 22′ above grade. With spectacular views of the Arroyo Grande foothills and farms, this main pool deck becomes a major feature of the home. All living spaces, including the great room and kitchen open up to this deck, ideal for relaxation and entertainment. Given that the owners have five golden retrievers, this outdoor space also serves as an area for the dogs. The design includes multiple water features and even a dog pond. To further emphasize the views, a third story mitered glass reading room gives one the impression of sitting above the treetops. The use of warm IPE hardwood siding and stone cladding blend the structure into the surrounding landscape while still offering a clean and contemporary aesthetic.

he brief for this Paddington terrace garden was to update an existing rundown courtyard in line with the modern interiors of the house. The design aimed to maintain neat clean lines, use a formal but interesting palette of material, maximise space for entertaining, retain access to the rear lane and deal with a sloping site. Built in seating with a backrest allows for the change in levels – incorporating retaining and pushed up against the side boundary maximises space for entertaining. A delicate yet contrasting plant palette and water feature selection was chosen to match the house interiors and simple light grey large format tiles let these elements shine. The wrap around bench seat is semi floating to allow for a shadow line and the illusion of more space. It allows for casual seating – a pop of yellow in the Acapulco chairs is a welcome addition against the soft grey facade of the house. A cluster of white pots on the timber porch adds to the composition and Bamboo and Magnolia Little Gems provide a green backdrop and screen of the neighbouring properties. A fixed outdoor umbrella offers shade over the seating areas. The design and look of the garden compliments the architecture and interiors of the residence. It is a design that is sophisticated in its simplicity, with interesting materials and plants but also with functional space that perfectly suits the needs and entertaining requirements of its owners.