A great example of how a compact backyard can be turned into a beautiful outdoor haven. With a creative approach, this small space now boasts all the main features on the client's wish list: pergola, gas fire pit, water feature and covered patio area. The square, horizontal/vertical layout gives a modern feel, which is merges with its wooded surroundings thanks to a combination of wood, brick, stone and slate. The height of the pergola frames the landscape and creates a cosy atmosphere under the surrounding tall trees. Kristin Karch

Inspiration for a mid-sized contemporary drought-tolerant and partial sun front yard gravel garden path in Atlanta for summer.

Private layered green garden with stone, concrete and decomposed granite. The garden provides an intimate seating area adjacent to the family room - indoor outdoor living. Home design/renovation by Klopf Architecture. Acacia Cousin Itt, Lomandra 'Platinum Beauty', Dianella and no mow lawn create part of the overall planting palette.

Sculptural agaves, succulents and California native plants punctuate the front landscape complementing the “arroyo seco” rain garden studded with boulders and branches. The rain garden catches 50% of the stormwater runoff from the roof and infiltrates it into the soil. The remaining 50% of the runoff goes to a second rain garden in the back yard.

The uneven back yard was graded into ¬upper and lower levels with an industrial style, concrete wall. Linear pavers lead the garden stroller from place to place alongside a rain garden filled with swaying grasses that spans the side yard and culminates at a gracefully arching pomegranate tree, branches laden with impossibly red blossoms and fruit.

Brian Santoro
Design ideas for a traditional side yard stone landscaping in Atlanta.

A bird house is the focal point of this back yard garden. The post height ensures plenty of room for tall perennials. The shed has attained a lovely patina including moss growth on the roof. Vintage watering cans on the side of the shed complete the garden theme. Photo & design by Bob Trainor. Birdhouse by Walpole Outdoors

A full-range bluestone walkway turns towards the front door where bluestone was mortared to the entry. Bluestone steppers are laid through a bed and the lawn leading to the back courtyard. A hedge of Green Gem boxwood partially conceals a maintenance strip of slate chips which has underlying drain tile to capture the water expelled from the roof in storms as the home lacks gutters.

Backyard mini garden featuring a center fairy garden with mini water fountain, stone benches and paths.
Inspiration for a small rustic partial sun backyard gravel garden path in Columbus.

A natural stone path and overhead arbor make for a very welcoming entry to this traditional garden. Hostas line the path, while a clematis vine clamours overhead.

photo: MaryLiz Austin
Inspiration for an eclectic landscaping in Seattle.

mike urban photography
Design ideas for an eclectic landscaping in Seattle.

Tony Giammarino
Large mountain style green two-story mixed siding house exterior photo in Richmond with a mixed material roof

Linear slots in the roof plane reflected with linear slots of the masonry walls. Photo by Daniel Freidman
Inspiration for a contemporary drought-tolerant front yard gravel garden path in Phoenix.

Pathway on north side of house reused slate found on site as steeping stones for informal pedestrian connection from front yard to backyard.
This is an example of a large traditional shade side yard garden path in Boston for summer.

Photo of a traditional drought-tolerant backyard stone garden path in Baltimore.

River stone culvert in wild garden scene.
Design ideas for a large mediterranean backyard landscaping in San Francisco.

This drought tolerant front yard was a great addition to this property. There are decomposed granite paths, CA native / CA friendly plans, a dry creek bed and a bridge that leads to the secret garden.

Patio - small contemporary backyard stone patio idea with a pergola