Great pool landscape! Frank Crandall
Photo of a modern partial sun backyard garden path in Providence for summer.

Creating a garden in Topanga involved an exciting contextual proposition: how best to achieve a balance between the built environment, the rocky hillside and the surrounding native live oak woodland. Specially selected hardscape consisting of Malibu rock and rough-hewn broken concrete married old with new and provided access and definition. A mixed palette of natives and Mediterranean plants joined garden with existing oaks and toyon trees. The resulting effect is one of a layered experience, a transition from semiformal to natural. A visitor to this garden experiences both the feeling of a residential setting and the beckoning wildland beyond.

A gentle path guides you through layered plantings, polished boulders, and the soft glow of landscape lighting—an invitation to wander, pause, and reconnect with the rhythm of nature.

Inspiration for a mid-sized traditional full sun front yard stone landscaping in Providence for summer.

Cascading water feature with 9' elevation change.
This is an example of a large traditional partial sun backyard stone landscaping in Baltimore for summer.

The rest of the world is shut out with wood fencing and lush, layered plantings, offering the homeowners a respite from the chaos of daily life.
Inspiration for a traditional partial sun side yard landscaping in Chicago for summer.

Angela Kearney, Minglewood, LLC - We brought this downtown front yard to life by removing the lawn and installing a path of granite steppers and a connected patio niche. To finish the space, we layered drought-tolerant plants to feed and flourish.

We brought life to this downtown front yard by removing the lawn and installing a path of granite steppers and a connected patio niche. To finish the space, we layered drought-tolerant plants to feed and flourish.

Our planting focus is rewilding with native plants. A few Japanese and Asian elements will be woven in to add interest. Emulating nature will inspire our planting patterns. Removing edging, blurring lines, adding texture and layering will allow the garden to complement not only the house but the surrounding ecosystem as well. Pollinators will flourish and birds will find new homes within this dynamic environment. The labor budget includes transplanting 5-7 shrubs and a few sections of Phlox. It also includes removing edging from the front garden and areas in the rear garden.

Collaborated on project development from design and permitting to installation in 2014. Over 10 years, we’ve maintained close communication with the owners and their maintenance provider, RP Marzilli to ensure the landscape is kept in top condition. The sloping yard allowed us to create a stunning infinity-edge pool, while the large evergreen plantings provide privacy and edge habitat. New England stone walls and mature tree layers beautifully integrate the house with the surrounding landscape. Angela Kearney, Minglewood, LLC

Collaborated on project development from design and permitting to installation in 2014. Over 10 years, we’ve maintained close communication with the owners and their maintenance provider, RP Marzilli to ensure the landscape is kept in top condition. The sloping yard allowed us to create a stunning infinity-edge pool, while the large evergreen plantings provide privacy and edge habitat. New England stone walls and mature tree layers beautifully integrate the house with the surrounding landscape. Angela Kearney, Minglewood, LLC

This long-time family home was ready for a thoughtful evolution. Originally built years ago, the homeowners came to us seeking a comprehensive renovation that better reflected how they live today — entertaining frequently, welcoming their grown children home for holidays and summers, and desiring spaces that feel elevated, functional, and deeply personal. What began as a kitchen and bath update ultimately became a whole-home transformation, touching every floor — from the main living level to the bedroom floor and even the attic. On the first floor, we completed a full gut renovation and thoughtful reconfiguration of the layout. Walls were removed — including a former pantry and powder room — to dramatically improve sightlines and flow between the kitchen and living room. The kitchen footprint was expanded to accommodate a generously sized island designed for gathering. A two-tone cabinetry palette establishes subtle zoning: Farrow & Ball Stiffkey Blue anchors the island and refrigerator surround, while White Tie brightens the perimeter cabinetry. Paneled appliances conceal the dishwasher and trash, while a stainless refrigerator adds balance and contrast. Antique brass hardware and oversized statement pendants layer in warmth and charm. Inside the cabinetry, custom storage solutions — from built-in spice racks and pull-out trays to a dedicated Tupperware drawer with lid dividers — ensure everything has its place. The former dining room was reimagined as a full-service butler’s pantry, complete with a second prep sink, paneled beverage drawers, an ice maker, glass display cabinetry, and abundant storage. Two built-in desks and a bench create a flexible zone for puzzles, homework, or casual seating. By relocating coffee and cocktail service to this dedicated space, the main kitchen remains uncluttered — even during large gatherings. The powder room was thoughtfully relocated to support the new layout and transformed into a jewel-box moment for guests. Schumacher’s Romantic Bosphorus mural wallpaper creates a hand-painted, immersive experience. A custom console vanity with a Carrara marble top and backsplash pairs beautifully with an antique brass wall-mounted faucet, layered with warm lighting and brass finishes for an unforgettable impression. Beyond the kitchen, we opened up the living room and installed a custom bi-fold door system that seamlessly connects the interior to the screened-in porch, enhancing indoor-outdoor living. A bespoke music room was also created on the main level, complete with integrated soundproofing and custom cabinetry designed to house instruments, sheet music, a piano, and a concealed sound system — allowing the family’s love of music to be fully supported without visual clutter. Throughout the home, existing hardwood floors were refinished, and new decorative lighting and upgraded recessed lighting were installed to elevate both ambiance and functionality. On the bedroom floor, every space received a refresh. Each bedroom was thoughtfully updated with custom wallpaper and wall coverings, while the shared bathroom was fully renovated to incorporate a highly functional laundry area. Durable finishes, smart storage solutions, and a clean layout ensure it works seamlessly for adult children when home while still serving daily needs year-round. The primary bathroom was transformed into a serene retreat designed for daily restoration. A soft neutral palette and layered materials create a calming environment, while half of the space functions as a wet room where the tub and shower share one expansive area. Porcelain tile with a Calacatta marble look delivers timeless elegance without the maintenance of natural stone. Champagne Bronze fixtures complement natural cherry cabinetry — a nod to the homeowner’s passion for woodworking — and thoughtful recessed niches provide clean, hidden storage. Even the attic was elevated to support modern living. Previously underutilized, the space was upgraded to serve as a dedicated home office for the homeowner, who works there daily. Improved lighting, finishes, and function transformed it into a productive and comfortable retreat tucked away from the main living areas. Integrated technology plays a key role throughout the home. A Control4 smart home automation system was implemented to seamlessly manage sound, lighting, and comfort. Custom blinds, drapery, and upholstery were carefully coordinated and fabricated to complement each space, adding softness and cohesion from room to room. This project represents more than a renovation — it is a full reimagining of how the home supports gathering, creativity, comfort, and daily life. Every floor was thoughtfully considered. Every space was elevated. And the result is a sophisticated yet welcoming home designed to serve this family beautifully for years to come.

Collaborated on project development from design and permitting to installation in 2014. Over 10 years, we’ve maintained close communication with the owners and their maintenance provider, RP Marzilli to ensure the landscape is kept in top condition. The sloping yard allowed us to create a stunning infinity-edge pool, while the large evergreen plantings provide privacy and edge habitat. New England stone walls and mature tree layers beautifully integrate the house with the surrounding landscape. Angela Kearney, Minglewood, LLC

Colorful, layered plantings conceal the fence on the property line.
Design ideas for a small rustic full sun and drought-tolerant backyard stone retaining wall landscape in Detroit for summer.

Collaborated on project development from design and permitting to installation in 2014. Over 10 years, we’ve maintained close communication with the owners and their maintenance provider, RP Marzilli to ensure the landscape is kept in top condition. The sloping yard allowed us to create a stunning infinity-edge pool, while the large evergreen plantings provide privacy and edge habitat. New England stone walls and mature tree layers beautifully integrate the house with the surrounding landscape. Angela Kearney, Minglewood, LLC

potager and outdoor dining under the pergola copyright 2015 Virginia Rockwell
This is an example of a large traditional full sun backyard gravel vegetable garden landscape in Richmond for summer.

Collaborated on project development from design and permitting to installation in 2014. Over 10 years, we’ve maintained close communication with the owners and their maintenance provider, RP Marzilli to ensure the landscape is kept in top condition. The sloping yard allowed us to create a stunning infinity-edge pool, while the large evergreen plantings provide privacy and edge habitat. New England stone walls and mature tree layers beautifully integrate the house with the surrounding landscape. Angela Kearney, Minglewood, LLC

This Moroccan inspired Rooftop Garden in Chelsea features many outdoor rooms with pergolas, fencing, fiberglass containers, statues, and outdoor seating. This layered container garden is a plethora of different specimen plants- both flowering and evergreen, which provide for brilliant contrasting textures as well as a greater sense of depth.

Creating a garden in Topanga involved an exciting contextual proposition: how best to achieve a balance between the built environment, the rocky hillside and the surrounding native live oak woodland. Specially selected hardscape consisting of Malibu rock and rough-hewn broken concrete married old with new and provided access and definition. A mixed palette of natives and Mediterranean plants joined garden with existing oaks and toyon trees. The resulting effect is one of a layered experience, a transition from semiformal to natural. A visitor to this garden experiences both the feeling of a residential setting and the beckoning wildland beyond.