Set against the superb modernist architecture of Moto Designshop, and within the existing COR-TEN steel rain troughs by Studio | Bryan Hanes, this terraced garden frames and maximizes views from the rear facade to the pond below. The garden design focused on verging wild, intermingled plant communities with the floor-to-ceiling windows of the family's living space to provide ongoing seasonal interest and visual diversity. Working closely with agronomists, aggregate substrates, calcium and humates were incorporated to ensure adequate drainage and soil health. Rapid stabilization of the very wet, narrow spaces was achieved with freely seeding Eupatorium coelestinum and plantings of stoloniferous and rhizomatous plants, such as Carex muskingumensis and Iris fulva, among cespitose clumps.

Dwarf Coyote Bush (Baccharis pilularis) is a "top performer for erosion," and among those recommended for fire wise gardens. Even without these skills, its consistent bright green would make it a lovely addition to any LA garden.

Brazilian Cherry The rich beauty of the Brazilian Cherry floor provides the setting for your lifestyle. This floor not only adds value to your home but you will also enjoy a floor who’s richness only improves over time. This hardwood floor tends to become darker as it ages with time. Our Solid Wood Flooring are manufactured with the most advanced technology. These products are designed to be nailed down over plywood. Solid wood flooring should only be installed on or above grade. The interior climate should remain consistent to reduce the natural expansion and contraction of your floor. Hardwood flooring not only enhances the appeal of your home but adds value and beauty as well as insulating your home. This floor will hold its elegance over the years with a minimal care and maintenance. This floor is manufactured with the greatest care and backed by a warranty that assures your satisfaction. We believe in environmental and corporate social responsibility. For every purchase made by our customers, we will sponsor the planting of a tree in their honor. Appearance Color: Dark reddish brown. Grain: Texture fine to medium; luster low to medium, grain straight to very irregular. Properties Hardness: ( Janka 2,200) , harder than Red Oak,( 1210 Janka). Ipe is the hardest specie of its kind. Dimension Stability: This Brazilian species is very stable. Origin: South America Finish: Our floors have 8 layers of low gloss lacquer made by Treffert. It contains: Aluminum oxide, U.V. and anti-scratch. Flooring available: Solid & Engineered Hardwood Flooring Sizes: Solid ¾ x 5 RL 1 – 6 ft. Engineer: 5/8 x 5 RL 1 – 6 ft. The 5/8 flooring has a back support of a 9 ply birch plywood for maximum stability. The wear layer single strip solid is a 4mm top layer glued on the plywood with the latest cold press technology. Moisture Content: 7 – 9 % Warranty: 25 years limited warranty.

This is a lakeside property that was on a slight incline. To help with erosion and drainage issue, we dug a new dry river bed that went from the side of the house all the way to the lakeshore. This corrected the drainage problem for this lakeside home. We then installed Zeon Zoysia throughout the property.

In the Llubí garden, our landscape design focuses on creating an aesthetic, functional, and sustainable space. We have prioritized water conservation by avoiding lawns and meadows in favor of a large gravel area. Next to the house wall, we have installed gravel stabilizers to create an ideal space for placing tables for breakfast or snacks. This area features an umbrella situated at the highest point of the garden, offering a panoramic view and allowing for full enjoyment of the surroundings. To break the monotony of the gravel, we have introduced islands of rosemary and lavender, alternating these plants in five long and narrow islands, approximately 7 meters by 2 meters each. These plants will grow, partially covering the gravel and providing a contrasting color with the sea gravel. Additionally, we have created five islands of various wildflowers that will grow and cover the ground, serving as points of flowering. In the center of the garden, we have incorporated a fireplace, creating a perfect space for extraordinary moments with family and friends. Around this central area, we have planted three jacarandas, providing points of shade in the garden. The garden’s design aims to be low maintenance, highlighting wildflowers and creating areas with a high density of these plants, which gives the space a wild and natural character. This approach allows for the enjoyment of a garden that reflects natural beauty with minimal intervention.

Casual yet elegant, the Etra Collection by Modern Outdoor offers a modern aesthetic that is constructed for outdoor use while being suitable for indoor settings. Etra’s visual inspiration is derived from its architectural-based frame system. Designed using structural angle steel that is mitered and ground, a clean and seamless surface gives Etra its pure appeal. Frame Options: • 304 stainless steel that is brushed and electropolished • marine-grade 316 stainless steel that is brushed and electropolished for use within one mile of salt air, available for an upcharge • powder coated carbon steel in our standard silver finish • custom powder coat colors, available for an upcharge Surface Options: • sustainably harvested ipe – a beautiful South American hardwood that is three times as dense as teak — naturally resistant to rot, insects, UV exposure, ice, salt, abrasion and splintering – all without the need for toxic chemicals — considered a 25+ year wood • marine-grade polyboard – a UV stabilized high-density polyethylene material that is non-corrosive and chip resistant – available in six colors for expanded design choices Fabric Options: • six standard colors of 100% solution dyed acrylic treated for outdoor use are offered • custom fabrics and COM service are also available Cushion Options: • our standard foam cushions are made from outdoor appropriate high-resiliency (HR) foam • for clients that prefer less maintenance, a flow-through foam that allows water and moisture to escape the cushion is also available for an upcharge Etra is a full-breadth line with dining, bar height, lounge, cafe, patio and pool setting pieces included. The pieces are readily customizable for individual client needs.

Polywood® Shutters are superior in product innovation, serving as the nation's category leader in plantation shutters, as they are exclusively engineered and custom crafted in the USA with a durable recyclable wood substitute. They are also the most optimal window treatment in achieving energy-efficiency, as each panel is insulated with a signature patented weather stripping.Moisture proof Fire resistant Termite proof Sea salt resistant UL Tested UV Stabilized 70% more energy efficient than wood shutters 1600% more energy efficient than aluminum blinds Earth-friendly: Made from recyclable wood substitute Made in the USA Lined with exclusively patented weather stripping for optimal window insulation Available in any specialty shape window including arches, octagons, circles, angles, sunbursts, rakes, etc. 3 louver sizes- 2.5, 3.5, 4.5 Smooth or wood grain (emboss avail on louver only) 3 colors: white, off white, snow white 9 frame options Standard tilt rod or hidden tilt rod Lifetime warranty (all manufacturer defects & paint finish) Won’t warp, split, or chip Cordless Window Treatment Optimal Light & Sound Control Wipe with damp cloth Curb appeal and home equity

A dry river routes limited water to foliage in drought and away from the home during rainy seasons. Climate compatible foliage stabilizes the terraced topography and delivers vibrant year round color. Photo: Orly Olivier

Polywood® Shutters are superior in product innovation, serving as the nation's category leader in plantation shutters, as they are exclusively engineered and custom crafted in the USA with a durable recyclable wood substitute. They are also the most optimal window treatment in achieving energy-efficiency, as each panel is insulated with a signature patented weather stripping.Moisture proof Fire resistant Termite proof Sea salt resistant UL Tested UV Stabilized 70% more energy efficient than wood shutters 1600% more energy efficient than aluminum blinds Earth-friendly: Made from recyclable wood substitute Made in the USA Lined with exclusively patented weather stripping for optimal window insulation Available in any specialty shape window including arches, octagons, circles, angles, sunbursts, rakes, etc. 3 louver sizes- 2.5, 3.5, 4.5 Smooth or wood grain (emboss avail on louver only) 3 colors: white, off white, snow white 9 frame options Standard tilt rod or hidden tilt rod Lifetime warranty (all manufacturer defects & paint finish) Won’t warp, split, or chip Cordless Window Treatment Optimal Light & Sound Control Wipe with damp cloth Curb appeal and home equity

Polywood® Shutters are superior in product innovation, serving as the nation's category leader in plantation shutters, as they are exclusively engineered and custom crafted in the USA with a durable recyclable wood substitute. They are also the most optimal window treatment in achieving energy-efficiency, as each panel is insulated with a signature patented weather stripping.Moisture proof Fire resistant Termite proof Sea salt resistant UL Tested UV Stabilized 70% more energy efficient than wood shutters 1600% more energy efficient than aluminum blinds Earth-friendly: Made from recyclable wood substitute Made in the USA Lined with exclusively patented weather stripping for optimal window insulation Available in any specialty shape window including arches, octagons, circles, angles, sunbursts, rakes, etc. 3 louver sizes- 2.5, 3.5, 4.5 Smooth or wood grain (emboss avail on louver only) 3 colors: white, off white, snow white 9 frame options Standard tilt rod or hidden tilt rod Lifetime warranty (all manufacturer defects & paint finish) Won’t warp, split, or chip Cordless Window Treatment Optimal Light & Sound Control Wipe with damp cloth Curb appeal and home equity

Casual yet elegant, the Etra Collection by Modern Outdoor offers a modern aesthetic that is constructed for outdoor use while being suitable for indoor settings. Etra’s visual inspiration is derived from its architectural-based frame system. Designed using structural angle steel that is mitered and ground, a clean and seamless surface gives Etra its pure appeal. Frame Options: • 304 stainless steel that is brushed and electropolished • marine-grade 316 stainless steel that is brushed and electropolished for use within one mile of salt air, available for an upcharge • powder coated carbon steel in our standard silver finish • custom powder coat colors, available for an upcharge Surface Options: • sustainably harvested ipe – a beautiful South American hardwood that is three times as dense as teak — naturally resistant to rot, insects, UV exposure, ice, salt, abrasion and splintering – all without the need for toxic chemicals — considered a 25+ year wood • marine-grade polyboard – a UV stabilized high-density polyethylene material that is non-corrosive and chip resistant – available in six colors for expanded design choices Fabric Options: • six standard colors of 100% solution dyed acrylic treated for outdoor use are offered • custom fabrics and COM service are also available Cushion Options: • our standard foam cushions are made from outdoor appropriate high-resiliency (HR) foam • for clients that prefer less maintenance, a flow-through foam that allows water and moisture to escape the cushion is also available for an upcharge Etra is a full-breadth line with dining, bar height, lounge, cafe, patio and pool setting pieces included. The pieces are readily customizable for individual client needs.

The Pet System utilizes a layered step process to drastically curtail odor issues by focusing on aeration, drainage, neutralization and of course beauty. Each step of our system compliments the other to create the perfect fusion for great looking, as well as, fresh smelling artificial grass. We utilize a range of products: antibacterial Durafill and ZeoFill, urine neutralizing ATD, UV stabilized Pet Turf, perforated Drain Core, and non-toxic Turf Fresh. This system was designed to meet the needs of all pet owners. Whether you have one small pet or a whole family zoo, Ameriside has exactly what you need. Photos Jeremy Sharrock

Simply Cedar, Williamsburg White and Ready-to-Finish 16" Square and 32" planters made-to-order. Taking orders for spring now! 16" planters is $145 and the 32" planters are $155 each. Finishes are VOC friendly and water based. Made from Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI®) certified responsible wood sources Southern yellow pine, Severe Weather Above Ground pressure treated exterior wood protected by Ecolife (EL2); a stabilizing formula that repels water and looking better longer Ecolife (EL2) provides built-in water repellency that lasts for up to 3 years and reduces surface cracking and checking by up to 50% compared to ordinary treated wood

This beautiful American Craftsman style home located on the steep shorelines of Cavanaugh Lake needed an updated pay and heavy slope stabilization along the back of the existing house foundation. Given it's northern exposure along the shoreline the hardiest of wind-tolerant plants and materials were required to the pass the seasonal test of harsh winter winds and heavy spring rainfall. The outcome is a private and relaxing waterfront landing carefully nestled under the canopy of a mature Swamp White Oak tree.

Before
Traditional exterior home idea

The Chapman 7-Piece Outdoor Dining Group includes a 90" x 44" rectangle table and six chairs with deep-seated, plush tufted cushions that are covered in premium Sunbrella™ brand fabric for added durability and beauty. The contemporary slat-style tabletop makes it super easy to care for, while also allowing rain to run off easily. The dining arm chairs and table have a stretcher that connects the legs for added support and stabilization. The swivel/rocker base on the game chairs adds motion to enhance overall seating comfort. COLLECTION FEATURES The Chapman collection is an updated traditional collection. The frames are crafted from extruded tubular aluminum with full-circumference welds featured in a durable Chicory powder-coat finish. The plush cushions, on seating items, are covered in premium Sunbrella™ brand 100% solution-dyed acrylic fabric.

KITCHEN Cabinets: The kitchen perimeter features Elmwood Full Access all wood cabinetry with the perimeter in Coventry 3" Rail 3/8" Panel door style, Paint Grade cabinets, and a finish of Dove White Matte paint. The island is a Malpensa 3" Rail Raised Panel door style, Maplewood, and a finish of Dove White Matte paint. Countertop: The 3cm countertops on the perimeter is a 2 cm Caesarstone Calacatta Nuvo, with the island in a 1-1/2” Teak Butcher Block. Backsplash: The main backsplash tile is a Renaissance Tile, 6x6 Mercer Bead Board, White finish, in straight lay. Above the range we have Renaissance Tile, PTMT-66XE 6x6, in a custom color. The border is a Renaissance tile PTDC-VDot rail. Fixtures and Fittings: From Blanco, we have 30” Cerana Fireclay apron front single bowl sink in White. From Newport Brass, a Chesterfield Kitchen Faucet with Side Spray 943 15S in Satin Nickel, Chesterfield Pot Filler- wall mount 9482 15S in Satin Nickel, and a Chesterfield Hot & Cold Water Dispenser 108 15S in Satin Nickel. MASTER BATH Cabinets: The cabinets feature Elmwood Full Access All Wood, Chamberlain door style, Paint Grade cabinets, with a finish of Dove White matte paint. Countertop: The 3cm countertops are a 2 cm Caesarstone Calacatta Nuvo. Tile: The bath and vanity area floor features Arizona Tile Manhattan Marble 12-1/4"x12-1/4" Polished Cordoba Pattern mesh in a straight lay. The walls feature Arizona Tile Manhattan Marble 12x12 Polished tile cut to 6 x12 tile in a brick lay pattern, and a Arizona Tile Manhattan Marble 2x12 ogee molding as chair rail. Fixtures and Fittings: From Kohler, Iron Plains Dual-mount bath sinks K-5400-0 in White. From Newport brass, Jacobean Widespread Lavatory Faucets 2470 15S in Satin Nickel, Jacobean Exposed Tub & Hand Shower Set - Wall Mount 2400-4283 15S in Satin Nickel, Fairfield Floor Riser Kit for Exposed Tub & Hand Shower Set 3-196 in Satin Nickel, Fairfield Stabilizer 2-734 15S- Satin Nickel; 3/4" Shut off valves for 3-196 and 3-226 (1 pair) 3-192 15S in Satin Nickel, and Brass Tank Lever/Faucet Handle 2-645 15S in Satin Nickel. From Victoria and Albert, a Shropshire Tub with Brushed nickel feet SHR-N-SW and Brushed Nickel Drain STD-UNIBN. Lastly, from TOTO, Eco Promenade® Two-Piece Toilet, 1.28 GPF, Elongated Bowl CST424EFG#01 in Cotton, and a SoftClose® Toilet Seat - Elongated SS114#01 in Cotton

Photo by Glenn Wong
Photo of a mid-sized contemporary partial sun courtyard gravel garden path in Boston for fall.

TOP 5 LIVING ROOM COLORS The living room unites the things that make your house a home. Leisure, comfort, togetherness. It's the setting for countless memories and peaceful moments. So it's not surprising that paint colors for living rooms have a huge impact on the overall mood of your home. Depending on your home's unique personality, your space can be soothing or statement-making. It can have old-fashioned charm or modern appeal. Green is the color of harmony and renewal. Because it echoes the hues of the natural world, it's one of the best paint colors for living rooms. If you don't have the space (or the energy) for a bevy of house plants, green walls will be the splash of life your living room needs. Green can be fresh and subtle at the same time; it's the perfect alternative for those who find neutrals too boring. Gray walls make your living room feel more spacious. Elegant and serene, a gray room suits modernist décor as well as vintage ensembles. If you like to experiment with pops of color and conversation pieces, gray living room walls provide a nice backdrop for your artistry. Gray is a popular neutral for any room in the house, but it looks particularly sophisticated in the living room. It is among the most popular living room colors. Blue is America's favorite color, so it's a no-brainer for the room that brings everyone together. A blue living room has a calming, stabilizing effect on your home. There are many attractive shades of blue, and they all go well with neutrals like brown and cream. If your living room has hardwood floors, blue is an especially stylish choice. Blue living rooms seem clean and orderly without sacrificing color. Beige is the go-to neutral for interior designers. The dependable hue evokes the simplicity of raw fabrics. A beige living room is essential for a decorator who loves the minimalist look. The hottest design trend involves populating your living room with different shades of white. Subtle beige walls set the scene for this stunning, classy effect. Beige is one of the living room colors that people return to again and again. Black is not the most obvious color for a living room--but that's what makes it so great. A living room with black walls is unexpected and dramatic. Architectural details in the room draw more attention. Your furniture pops against the dark backdrop. If your living room gets a lot of sun, black walls can temper the glare of natural light. There are many ways to design a black living room, and they all make a strong statement that will be the centerpiece of your home.