Exiting the rear french doors of this historic Hinsdale home, the owners can now enjoy an evening overlooking their garden on this bluestone lounge patio. With a 5ft change in elevation, the renovated exterior space required a series of terraces to transition from the patio down to the driveway. The patio and walls were designed with a symmetrical balance and circulation in mind. Complex, multi-level concrete foundation walls ensure this raised patio will never settle. Newly configured masonry steps now provide a welcoming entry walk into their house from their garage. One key design feature was to minimize the view of hardscapes from the rear yard; this was achieved through layering dwarf shrubs and perennials within the masonry walls, and transitioning to fieldstone boulders on the eastern edge of the space. A key feature the owners requested was a place to garden. The eastern side of the space features a dedicated herb and vegetable raised planter, surrounded in perennials and crushed bluestone chip. Smooth faced brick veneer on the masonry walls was selected as a close match to the original house brick from the 1920’s. Low voltage lighting fixtures were incorporated throughout the planting beds and under the stair treads to allow the owners to use the patio after dark. Centered on the upper masonry wall rests a low bowl fiberglass planter for a stunning center piece of annual flowers. The planter is plumbed for drainage and irrigation. One existing crabapple was thoughtfully preserved and incorporated in the new wall construction. The transformation from before to after on this rear yard renovation is truly a custom home make-over, one for the owners to enjoy for a lifetime.

Exiting the rear french doors of this historic Hinsdale home, the owners can now enjoy an evening overlooking their garden on this bluestone lounge patio. With a 5ft change in elevation, the renovated exterior space required a series of terraces to transition from the patio down to the driveway. The patio and walls were designed with a symmetrical balance and circulation in mind. Complex, multi-level concrete foundation walls ensure this raised patio will never settle. Newly configured masonry steps now provide a welcoming entry walk into their house from their garage. One key design feature was to minimize the view of hardscapes from the rear yard; this was achieved through layering dwarf shrubs and perennials within the masonry walls, and transitioning to fieldstone boulders on the eastern edge of the space. A key feature the owners requested was a place to garden. The eastern side of the space features a dedicated herb and vegetable raised planter, surrounded in perennials and crushed bluestone chip. Smooth faced brick veneer on the masonry walls was selected as a close match to the original house brick from the 1920’s. Low voltage lighting fixtures were incorporated throughout the planting beds and under the stair treads to allow the owners to use the patio after dark. Centered on the upper masonry wall rests a low bowl fiberglass planter for a stunning center piece of annual flowers. The planter is plumbed for drainage and irrigation. One existing crabapple was thoughtfully preserved and incorporated in the new wall construction. The transformation from before to after on this rear yard renovation is truly a custom home make-over, one for the owners to enjoy for a lifetime.

This luxury Florida backyard retreat features a sleek custom pool, spacious patio, and modern coastal architecture designed for seamless outdoor living and entertaining.

Exiting the rear french doors of this historic Hinsdale home, the owners can now enjoy an evening overlooking their garden on this bluestone lounge patio. With a 5ft change in elevation, the renovated exterior space required a series of terraces to transition from the patio down to the driveway. The patio and walls were designed with a symmetrical balance and circulation in mind. Complex, multi-level concrete foundation walls ensure this raised patio will never settle. Newly configured masonry steps now provide a welcoming entry walk into their house from their garage. One key design feature was to minimize the view of hardscapes from the rear yard; this was achieved through layering dwarf shrubs and perennials within the masonry walls, and transitioning to fieldstone boulders on the eastern edge of the space. A key feature the owners requested was a place to garden. The eastern side of the space features a dedicated herb and vegetable raised planter, surrounded in perennials and crushed bluestone chip. Smooth faced brick veneer on the masonry walls was selected as a close match to the original house brick from the 1920’s. Low voltage lighting fixtures were incorporated throughout the planting beds and under the stair treads to allow the owners to use the patio after dark. Centered on the upper masonry wall rests a low bowl fiberglass planter for a stunning center piece of annual flowers. The planter is plumbed for drainage and irrigation. One existing crabapple was thoughtfully preserved and incorporated in the new wall construction. The transformation from before to after on this rear yard renovation is truly a custom home make-over, one for the owners to enjoy for a lifetime.

Inspiration for a large mediterranean formal garden in Tel Aviv for spring.

Example of a mid-sized beach style backyard stone and rectangular natural pool design in Miami

Mark Hoyle Originally, this 3700 SF two level eclectic farmhouse from the mid 1980’s underwent design changes to reflect a more colonial style. Now, after being completely renovated with additional 2800 SF living space, it’s combined total of 6500 SF boasts an Energy Star certification of 5 stars. Approaching this completed home, you will meander along a new driveway through the dense buffer of trees until you reach the clearing, and then circle a tiered fountain on axis with the front entry accentuating the symmetrical main structure. Many of the exterior changes included enclosing the front porch and rear screened porch, replacing windows, replacing all the vinyl siding with and fiber cement siding, creating a new front stoop with winding brick stairs and wrought iron railings as will as other additions to the left and rear of the home. The existing interior was completely fro the studs and included modifying uses of many of the existing rooms such as converting the original dining room into an oval shaped theater with reclining theater seats, fiber-optic starlight ceiling and an 80” television with built-in surround sound. The laundry room increased in size by taking in the porch and received all new cabinets and finishes. The screened porch across the back of the house was enclosed to create a new dining room, enlarged the kitchen, all of which allows for a commanding view of the beautifully landscaped pool. The upper master suite begins by entering a private office then leads to a newly vaulted bedroom, a new master bathroom with natural light and an enlarged closet. The major portion of the addition space was added to the left side as a part time home for the owner’s brother. This new addition boasts an open plan living, dining and kitchen, a master suite with a luxurious bathroom and walk–in closet, a guest suite, a garage and its own private gated brick courtyard entry and direct access to the well appointed pool patio. And finally the last part of the project is the sunroom and new lagoon style pool. Tucked tightly against the rear of the home. This room was created to feel like a gazebo including a metal roof and stained wood ceiling, the foundation of this room was constructed with the pool to insure the look as if it is floating on the water. The pool’s negative edge opposite side allows open views of the trees beyond. There is a natural stone waterfall on one side of the pool and a shallow area on the opposite side for lounge chairs to be placed in it along with a hot tub that spills into the pool. The coping completes the pool’s natural shape and continues to the patio utilizing the same stone but separated by Zoysia grass keeping the natural theme. The finishing touches to this backyard oasis is completed utilizing large boulders, Tempest Torches, architectural lighting and abundant variety of landscaping complete the oasis for all to enjoy.

Mark Hoyle Originally, this 3700 SF two level eclectic farmhouse from the mid 1980’s underwent design changes to reflect a more colonial style. Now, after being completely renovated with additional 2800 SF living space, it’s combined total of 6500 SF boasts an Energy Star certification of 5 stars. Approaching this completed home, you will meander along a new driveway through the dense buffer of trees until you reach the clearing, and then circle a tiered fountain on axis with the front entry accentuating the symmetrical main structure. Many of the exterior changes included enclosing the front porch and rear screened porch, replacing windows, replacing all the vinyl siding with and fiber cement siding, creating a new front stoop with winding brick stairs and wrought iron railings as will as other additions to the left and rear of the home. The existing interior was completely fro the studs and included modifying uses of many of the existing rooms such as converting the original dining room into an oval shaped theater with reclining theater seats, fiber-optic starlight ceiling and an 80” television with built-in surround sound. The laundry room increased in size by taking in the porch and received all new cabinets and finishes. The screened porch across the back of the house was enclosed to create a new dining room, enlarged the kitchen, all of which allows for a commanding view of the beautifully landscaped pool. The upper master suite begins by entering a private office then leads to a newly vaulted bedroom, a new master bathroom with natural light and an enlarged closet. The major portion of the addition space was added to the left side as a part time home for the owner’s brother. This new addition boasts an open plan living, dining and kitchen, a master suite with a luxurious bathroom and walk–in closet, a guest suite, a garage and its own private gated brick courtyard entry and direct access to the well appointed pool patio. And finally the last part of the project is the sunroom and new lagoon style pool. Tucked tightly against the rear of the home. This room was created to feel like a gazebo including a metal roof and stained wood ceiling, the foundation of this room was constructed with the pool to insure the look as if it is floating on the water. The pool’s negative edge opposite side allows open views of the trees beyond. There is a natural stone waterfall on one side of the pool and a shallow area on the opposite side for lounge chairs to be placed in it along with a hot tub that spills into the pool. The coping completes the pool’s natural shape and continues to the patio utilizing the same stone but separated by Zoysia grass keeping the natural theme. The finishing touches to this backyard oasis is completed utilizing large boulders, Tempest Torches, architectural lighting and abundant variety of landscaping complete the oasis for all to enjoy.

Julia Lynn
Huge beach style brown two-story exterior home photo in Charleston

Mark Hoyle Originally, this 3700 SF two level eclectic farmhouse from the mid 1980’s underwent design changes to reflect a more colonial style. Now, after being completely renovated with additional 2800 SF living space, it’s combined total of 6500 SF boasts an Energy Star certification of 5 stars. Approaching this completed home, you will meander along a new driveway through the dense buffer of trees until you reach the clearing, and then circle a tiered fountain on axis with the front entry accentuating the symmetrical main structure. Many of the exterior changes included enclosing the front porch and rear screened porch, replacing windows, replacing all the vinyl siding with and fiber cement siding, creating a new front stoop with winding brick stairs and wrought iron railings as will as other additions to the left and rear of the home. The existing interior was completely fro the studs and included modifying uses of many of the existing rooms such as converting the original dining room into an oval shaped theater with reclining theater seats, fiber-optic starlight ceiling and an 80” television with built-in surround sound. The laundry room increased in size by taking in the porch and received all new cabinets and finishes. The screened porch across the back of the house was enclosed to create a new dining room, enlarged the kitchen, all of which allows for a commanding view of the beautifully landscaped pool. The upper master suite begins by entering a private office then leads to a newly vaulted bedroom, a new master bathroom with natural light and an enlarged closet. The major portion of the addition space was added to the left side as a part time home for the owner’s brother. This new addition boasts an open plan living, dining and kitchen, a master suite with a luxurious bathroom and walk–in closet, a guest suite, a garage and its own private gated brick courtyard entry and direct access to the well appointed pool patio. And finally the last part of the project is the sunroom and new lagoon style pool. Tucked tightly against the rear of the home. This room was created to feel like a gazebo including a metal roof and stained wood ceiling, the foundation of this room was constructed with the pool to insure the look as if it is floating on the water. The pool’s negative edge opposite side allows open views of the trees beyond. There is a natural stone waterfall on one side of the pool and a shallow area on the opposite side for lounge chairs to be placed in it along with a hot tub that spills into the pool. The coping completes the pool’s natural shape and continues to the patio utilizing the same stone but separated by Zoysia grass keeping the natural theme. The finishing touches to this backyard oasis is completed utilizing large boulders, Tempest Torches, architectural lighting and abundant variety of landscaping complete the oasis for all to enjoy.

Mark Hoyle Originally, this 3700 SF two level eclectic farmhouse from the mid 1980’s underwent design changes to reflect a more colonial style. Now, after being completely renovated with additional 2800 SF living space, it’s combined total of 6500 SF boasts an Energy Star certification of 5 stars. Approaching this completed home, you will meander along a new driveway through the dense buffer of trees until you reach the clearing, and then circle a tiered fountain on axis with the front entry accentuating the symmetrical main structure. Many of the exterior changes included enclosing the front porch and rear screened porch, replacing windows, replacing all the vinyl siding with and fiber cement siding, creating a new front stoop with winding brick stairs and wrought iron railings as will as other additions to the left and rear of the home. The existing interior was completely fro the studs and included modifying uses of many of the existing rooms such as converting the original dining room into an oval shaped theater with reclining theater seats, fiber-optic starlight ceiling and an 80” television with built-in surround sound. The laundry room increased in size by taking in the porch and received all new cabinets and finishes. The screened porch across the back of the house was enclosed to create a new dining room, enlarged the kitchen, all of which allows for a commanding view of the beautifully landscaped pool. The upper master suite begins by entering a private office then leads to a newly vaulted bedroom, a new master bathroom with natural light and an enlarged closet. The major portion of the addition space was added to the left side as a part time home for the owner’s brother. This new addition boasts an open plan living, dining and kitchen, a master suite with a luxurious bathroom and walk–in closet, a guest suite, a garage and its own private gated brick courtyard entry and direct access to the well appointed pool patio. And finally the last part of the project is the sunroom and new lagoon style pool. Tucked tightly against the rear of the home. This room was created to feel like a gazebo including a metal roof and stained wood ceiling, the foundation of this room was constructed with the pool to insure the look as if it is floating on the water. The pool’s negative edge opposite side allows open views of the trees beyond. There is a natural stone waterfall on one side of the pool and a shallow area on the opposite side for lounge chairs to be placed in it along with a hot tub that spills into the pool. The coping completes the pool’s natural shape and continues to the patio utilizing the same stone but separated by Zoysia grass keeping the natural theme. The finishing touches to this backyard oasis is completed utilizing large boulders, Tempest Torches, architectural lighting and abundant variety of landscaping complete the oasis for all to enjoy.

Located in Palo Alto's flood zone, this Eichler home underwent a phased renovation thoughtfully redesigned to accommodate a growing family of five, with an emphasis on school proximity and nearby grandparents. The bedroom wing was completely reconfigured, including a new front addition as a guest suite for grandparents, expanding the house to five bedrooms and three baths. Taller 9-foot ceilings were introduced in some areas, enhancing the overall openness—a lofty goal for an Eichler. The tranquil courtyard, a favorite spot for the family, was redesigned to allow parents to watch the kids while cooking. The backyard became a relaxing lounging area connected to the living room. Once dark living spaces were modernized by removing a low-hanging beam in the kitchen, adding skylights for natural light, and eliminating the fireplace to create a more functional entertainment space. Finally, new landscaping reflecting the client's heritage and some of the home's architectural elements, creates a harmonious indoor-outdoor flow. Klopf Architecture Project Team: John Klopf, AIA and Angela Alexander Interior Architecture: Klopf Architecture Bathroom Materials and Light Fixture Selection: Lucile Glessner Landscape Architect: Thuilot and Associates Photography: ©2024 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2024 Location: Palo Alto, CA

Winner of People's Choice Award, Best Architecture, and various judges choice awards. Built by McEwan Custom Homes.
Traditional exterior home idea in Salt Lake City

The shape of the angled porch-roof, sets the tone for a truly modern entryway. This protective covering makes a dramatic statement, as it hovers over the front door. The blue-stone terrace conveys even more interest, as it gradually moves upward, morphing into steps, until it reaches the porch. Porch Detail The multicolored tan stone, used for the risers and retaining walls, is proportionally carried around the base of the house. Horizontal sustainable-fiber cement board replaces the original vertical wood siding, and widens the appearance of the facade. The color scheme — blue-grey siding, cherry-wood door and roof underside, and varied shades of tan and blue stone — is complimented by the crisp-contrasting black accents of the thin-round metal columns, railing, window sashes, and the roof fascia board and gutters. This project is a stunning example of an exterior, that is both asymmetrical and symmetrical. Prior to the renovation, the house had a bland 1970s exterior. Now, it is interesting, unique, and inviting. Photography Credit: Tom Holdsworth Photography Contractor: Owings Brothers Contracting

Inspiration for a contemporary landscaping in Denver.

This vegetable garden is laid out on rectilinear lines with paths creating a cross-axis. The main path is flanked by raised beds and ornamented by a gateway at each end. The gateways themselves draw the eye through and perhaps out of the garden, but mixed plantings adding colour and texture to the beds invites the viewer to stay and spend some time looking around and enjoying how rich a garden filled with edibles can be.

Modern Farmhouse is a contemporary take on a tradition building type, the Connecticut farmhouse. Our clients were interested in a house that fit in with the landscape while providing plenty of daylight with views to the surrounding property. The design uses simple gables arranged in a picturesque manner. It balances clean modern lines, traditional forms, and rustic textures. The new house is bright and light while also feeling personal and unique. There was interest early on to compress the construction time and to design a building that would not take a lot of energy to run. To achieve these goals, the design of the main house used modular construction and a high performance envelope. To articulate the surfaces of the spaces, the owner assembled a group of designers and artisans. Natural textures and tones were layered over the volumes to give a sense of place and time. The modular units of the house are produced by Huntington Homes in East Montpelier, Vermont. In addition to the main house, there is a pool house that sits symmetrically on the main axis of a long swimming pool. A glass enclosed living room fits between two concrete volumes that house a bathroom and storage spaces. An outdoor shower faces south, with an oculus that lets light in when the door is closed. The simple forms of the pool house sit below a green roof, which protects the glassy room from the summer sun and integrates the building into the hilly landscape.

The 3,400 SF, 3 – bedroom, 3 ½ bath main house feels larger than it is because we pulled the kids’ bedroom wing and master suite wing out from the public spaces and connected all three with a TV Den. Convenient ranch house features include a porte cochere at the side entrance to the mud room, a utility/sewing room near the kitchen, and covered porches that wrap two sides of the pool terrace. We designed a separate icehouse to showcase the owner’s unique collection of Texas memorabilia. The building includes a guest suite and a comfortable porch overlooking the pool. The main house and icehouse utilize reclaimed wood siding, brick, stone, tie, tin, and timbers alongside appropriate new materials to add a feeling of age.