One of McKinley Burkart’s most aesthetically traditional projects, the Island Residence is a 15,000 square foot house made of pavilions and low bridges, completely surrounded by water. McKinley Burkart worked closely with landscape architects to design a residence that is fully integrated with its site. Water flows from a small fountain and trickles down, flowing throughout the site under glass bridges featuring the koi fish that populate the stream. The house implements Asian planning principles of connecting indoor and outdoor space using pavilions and bridges yet brings forth a West Coast, heavy timber aesthetic throughout the whole residence.

We bring sound into the garden with trickling water and crackling fire. We invite bees and birds to serenade us with their song.
Home design - mid-sized eclectic home design idea in Seattle

Designed for good energy... Our client was looking to create a space for retreat, tranquility, serenity. The existing space was somewhat funky without balance and made it difficult to feel good. Working within an existing courtyard space, we were limited. No matter, our goal was to remedy this outdoor courtyard/sunset balcony space. Our idea was to keep the space cozy but create destination spaces where you can lay down in the grass and look up at the stars. Walk bare foot atop the different hardscape surfaces, reclaimed brick patio & walkway, Silvermist flagstone, terra cotta tiles & tiffway bermuda. The idea of sitting in front of a magical rock island stone fireplace reading a book, sharing conversation with family & friends gives us warm feelings. Bubbling water features dance through out this space creating sounds of trickling brooks you could only hear if you were in a far far away place. The courtyard walls disappear, with plants and trees wrapping there arms around our client while relaxing under a 45 year old ascalone olive tree. A healing garden was the finished product, so much, its a space that you don't ever want to leave....

Water feature with a runnel. The pond on the left is at a lower level. Water is pumped from the pond to the top of the terra cotta building keystone on the right. The water flows down the face of the keystone, into the runnel and then trickles down the rock face into the pond.

A view under an arbor toward an intimate seating area next to a trickling water feature and pond. Recycled sandstone curbing is used to create steps (on the left) and an upper terrace.

J. Weiland Photography- Breathtaking Beauty and Luxurious Relaxation awaits in this Massive and Fabulous Mountain Retreat. The unparalleled Architectural Degree, Design & Style are credited to the Designer/Architect, Mr. Raymond W. Smith, https://www.facebook.com/Raymond-W-Smith-Residential-Designer-Inc-311235978898996/, the Interior Designs to Marina Semprevivo, and are an extent of the Home Owners Dreams and Lavish Good Tastes. Sitting atop a mountain side in the desirable gated-community of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, https://cliffsliving.com/the-cliffs-at-walnut-cove, this Skytop Beauty reaches into the Sky and Invites the Stars to Shine upon it. Spanning over 6,000 SF, this Magnificent Estate is Graced with Soaring Ceilings, Stone Fireplace and Wall-to-Wall Windows in the Two-Story Great Room and provides a Haven for gazing at South Asheville’s view from multiple vantage points. Coffered ceilings, Intricate Stonework and Extensive Interior Stained Woodwork throughout adds Dimension to every Space. Multiple Outdoor Private Bedroom Balconies, Decks and Patios provide Residents and Guests with desired Spaciousness and Privacy similar to that of the Biltmore Estate, http://www.biltmore.com/visit. The Lovely Kitchen inspires Joy with High-End Custom Cabinetry and a Gorgeous Contrast of Colors. The Striking Beauty and Richness are created by the Stunning Dark-Colored Island Cabinetry, Light-Colored Perimeter Cabinetry, Refrigerator Door Panels, Exquisite Granite, Multiple Leveled Island and a Fun, Colorful Backsplash. The Vintage Bathroom creates Nostalgia with a Cast Iron Ball & Claw-Feet Slipper Tub, Old-Fashioned High Tank & Pull Toilet and Brick Herringbone Floor. Garden Tubs with Granite Surround and Custom Tile provide Peaceful Relaxation. Waterfall Trickles and Running Streams softly resound from the Outdoor Water Feature while the bench in the Landscape Garden calls you to sit down and relax a while.

Subtle flow of water trickling into pondless water feature.
This is an example of a backyard landscaping in Manchester.

This High Park backyard is a restorative sanctuary designed for a client who loves gardening and embraces the forest-like character of the site. The landscape is layered to engage all the senses, attracting pollinators and wildlife while offering serene spaces to relax, whether by the calming water feature or at the bar-side of the outdoor kitchen. The existing deck has been transformed into a covered three-season room, seamlessly extending the home’s living space into the outdoors with an elevated view of High Park. Every element of this luxury Toronto backyard landscape balances sensory immersion, wellness, and functionality, creating a private retreat in the heart of the city where family, friends, and nature coexist in harmony.

The spa serves body and soul. Work out, meditate to the sound of trickling water, take a steam and even spend the night to wake up refreshed in a room where shoji screens serve as lanterns.

From one Pro to another, this new outdoor living addition fits in seamless to the original architecture of this El Paso Upper Valley home. Just finished and it feels like its always been there. The cedar pergola shades this beautiful Pennsylvania blue stone patio. Great lynx appliances fill this outdoor kitchen/bar and serving station. Trickling sound from the waterfall along with bouncing flames from the fire pit keeps visitors entranced in this special environment. Flanked by boulders & landscape planters that have color & fragrance all year around. However, when night falls, the landscape lights and fire features illuminate to create a sophisticated festive night spot. One can't wait to come home and enjoy

J. Weiland Photography- Breathtaking Beauty and Luxurious Relaxation awaits in this Massive and Fabulous Mountain Retreat. The unparalleled Architectural Degree, Design & Style are credited to the Designer/Architect, Mr. Raymond W. Smith, https://www.facebook.com/Raymond-W-Smith-Residential-Designer-Inc-311235978898996/, the Interior Designs to Marina Semprevivo, and are an extent of the Home Owners Dreams and Lavish Good Tastes. Sitting atop a mountain side in the desirable gated-community of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, https://cliffsliving.com/the-cliffs-at-walnut-cove, this Skytop Beauty reaches into the Sky and Invites the Stars to Shine upon it. Spanning over 6,000 SF, this Magnificent Estate is Graced with Soaring Ceilings, Stone Fireplace and Wall-to-Wall Windows in the Two-Story Great Room and provides a Haven for gazing at South Asheville’s view from multiple vantage points. Coffered ceilings, Intricate Stonework and Extensive Interior Stained Woodwork throughout adds Dimension to every Space. Multiple Outdoor Private Bedroom Balconies, Decks and Patios provide Residents and Guests with desired Spaciousness and Privacy similar to that of the Biltmore Estate, http://www.biltmore.com/visit. The Lovely Kitchen inspires Joy with High-End Custom Cabinetry and a Gorgeous Contrast of Colors. The Striking Beauty and Richness are created by the Stunning Dark-Colored Island Cabinetry, Light-Colored Perimeter Cabinetry, Refrigerator Door Panels, Exquisite Granite, Multiple Leveled Island and a Fun, Colorful Backsplash. The Vintage Bathroom creates Nostalgia with a Cast Iron Ball & Claw-Feet Slipper Tub, Old-Fashioned High Tank & Pull Toilet and Brick Herringbone Floor. Garden Tubs with Granite Surround and Custom Tile provide Peaceful Relaxation. Waterfall Trickles and Running Streams softly resound from the Outdoor Water Feature while the bench in the Landscape Garden calls you to sit down and relax a while.

Wanting a low maintenance landscape, but also wanting a space with mass plantings we found a happy medium. This bubbling rock water feature is surrounded by Hosta, Coral Bell, Brunnera, and Astilbe to create a lush look, with a lower maintenance need. The tranquil trickle of water over the porous stone makes for both a relaxing and mesmerizing space.

J. Weiland Photography- Breathtaking Beauty and Luxurious Relaxation awaits in this Massive and Fabulous Mountain Retreat. The unparalleled Architectural Degree, Design & Style are credited to the Designer/Architect, Mr. Raymond W. Smith, https://www.facebook.com/Raymond-W-Smith-Residential-Designer-Inc-311235978898996/, the Interior Designs to Marina Semprevivo, and are an extent of the Home Owners Dreams and Lavish Good Tastes. Sitting atop a mountain side in the desirable gated-community of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, https://cliffsliving.com/the-cliffs-at-walnut-cove, this Skytop Beauty reaches into the Sky and Invites the Stars to Shine upon it. Spanning over 6,000 SF, this Magnificent Estate is Graced with Soaring Ceilings, Stone Fireplace and Wall-to-Wall Windows in the Two-Story Great Room and provides a Haven for gazing at South Asheville’s view from multiple vantage points. Coffered ceilings, Intricate Stonework and Extensive Interior Stained Woodwork throughout adds Dimension to every Space. Multiple Outdoor Private Bedroom Balconies, Decks and Patios provide Residents and Guests with desired Spaciousness and Privacy similar to that of the Biltmore Estate, http://www.biltmore.com/visit. The Lovely Kitchen inspires Joy with High-End Custom Cabinetry and a Gorgeous Contrast of Colors. The Striking Beauty and Richness are created by the Stunning Dark-Colored Island Cabinetry, Light-Colored Perimeter Cabinetry, Refrigerator Door Panels, Exquisite Granite, Multiple Leveled Island and a Fun, Colorful Backsplash. The Vintage Bathroom creates Nostalgia with a Cast Iron Ball & Claw-Feet Slipper Tub, Old-Fashioned High Tank & Pull Toilet and Brick Herringbone Floor. Garden Tubs with Granite Surround and Custom Tile provide Peaceful Relaxation. Waterfall Trickles and Running Streams softly resound from the Outdoor Water Feature while the bench in the Landscape Garden calls you to sit down and relax a while.

From one Pro to another, this new outdoor living addition fits in seamless to the original architecture of this El Paso Upper Valley home. Just finished and it feels like its always been there. The cedar pergola shades this beautiful Pennsylvania blue stone patio. Great lynx appliances fill this outdoor kitchen/bar and serving station. Trickling sound from the waterfall along with bouncing flames from the fire pit keeps visitors entranced in this special environment. Flanked by boulders & landscape planters that have color & fragrance all year around. However, when night falls, the landscape lights and fire features illuminate to create a sophisticated festive night spot. One can't wait to come home and enjoy

J. Weiland Photography- Breathtaking Beauty and Luxurious Relaxation awaits in this Massive and Fabulous Mountain Retreat. The unparalleled Architectural Degree, Design & Style are credited to the Designer/Architect, Mr. Raymond W. Smith, https://www.facebook.com/Raymond-W-Smith-Residential-Designer-Inc-311235978898996/, the Interior Designs to Marina Semprevivo, and are an extent of the Home Owners Dreams and Lavish Good Tastes. Sitting atop a mountain side in the desirable gated-community of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, https://cliffsliving.com/the-cliffs-at-walnut-cove, this Skytop Beauty reaches into the Sky and Invites the Stars to Shine upon it. Spanning over 6,000 SF, this Magnificent Estate is Graced with Soaring Ceilings, Stone Fireplace and Wall-to-Wall Windows in the Two-Story Great Room and provides a Haven for gazing at South Asheville’s view from multiple vantage points. Coffered ceilings, Intricate Stonework and Extensive Interior Stained Woodwork throughout adds Dimension to every Space. Multiple Outdoor Private Bedroom Balconies, Decks and Patios provide Residents and Guests with desired Spaciousness and Privacy similar to that of the Biltmore Estate, http://www.biltmore.com/visit. The Lovely Kitchen inspires Joy with High-End Custom Cabinetry and a Gorgeous Contrast of Colors. The Striking Beauty and Richness are created by the Stunning Dark-Colored Island Cabinetry, Light-Colored Perimeter Cabinetry, Refrigerator Door Panels, Exquisite Granite, Multiple Leveled Island and a Fun, Colorful Backsplash. The Vintage Bathroom creates Nostalgia with a Cast Iron Ball & Claw-Feet Slipper Tub, Old-Fashioned High Tank & Pull Toilet and Brick Herringbone Floor. Garden Tubs with Granite Surround and Custom Tile provide Peaceful Relaxation. Waterfall Trickles and Running Streams softly resound from the Outdoor Water Feature while the bench in the Landscape Garden calls you to sit down and relax a while.

J. Weiland Photography- Breathtaking Beauty and Luxurious Relaxation awaits in this Massive and Fabulous Mountain Retreat. The unparalleled Architectural Degree, Design & Style are credited to the Designer/Architect, Mr. Raymond W. Smith, https://www.facebook.com/Raymond-W-Smith-Residential-Designer-Inc-311235978898996/, the Interior Designs to Marina Semprevivo, and are an extent of the Home Owners Dreams and Lavish Good Tastes. Sitting atop a mountain side in the desirable gated-community of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, https://cliffsliving.com/the-cliffs-at-walnut-cove, this Skytop Beauty reaches into the Sky and Invites the Stars to Shine upon it. Spanning over 6,000 SF, this Magnificent Estate is Graced with Soaring Ceilings, Stone Fireplace and Wall-to-Wall Windows in the Two-Story Great Room and provides a Haven for gazing at South Asheville’s view from multiple vantage points. Coffered ceilings, Intricate Stonework and Extensive Interior Stained Woodwork throughout adds Dimension to every Space. Multiple Outdoor Private Bedroom Balconies, Decks and Patios provide Residents and Guests with desired Spaciousness and Privacy similar to that of the Biltmore Estate, http://www.biltmore.com/visit. The Lovely Kitchen inspires Joy with High-End Custom Cabinetry and a Gorgeous Contrast of Colors. The Striking Beauty and Richness are created by the Stunning Dark-Colored Island Cabinetry, Light-Colored Perimeter Cabinetry, Refrigerator Door Panels, Exquisite Granite, Multiple Leveled Island and a Fun, Colorful Backsplash. The Vintage Bathroom creates Nostalgia with a Cast Iron Ball & Claw-Feet Slipper Tub, Old-Fashioned High Tank & Pull Toilet and Brick Herringbone Floor. Garden Tubs with Granite Surround and Custom Tile provide Peaceful Relaxation. Waterfall Trickles and Running Streams softly resound from the Outdoor Water Feature while the bench in the Landscape Garden calls you to sit down and relax a while.

Shortly after purchasing their home, the owners determined a complete landscape makeover was needed so they could truly enjoy Ohio’s short outdoor season in their expansive back yard. The project entailed designing multiple areas for relaxing and dining enhanced with the addition of trickling water and warmth of a firepit. Incorporating a blue pallet of Pennsylvania Bluestone patios and stacked stone columns throughout the project perfectly complements the taupe home and creates a naturally soothing quality in the new backyard retreat.

J. Weiland Photography- Breathtaking Beauty and Luxurious Relaxation awaits in this Massive and Fabulous Mountain Retreat. The unparalleled Architectural Degree, Design & Style are credited to the Designer/Architect, Mr. Raymond W. Smith, https://www.facebook.com/Raymond-W-Smith-Residential-Designer-Inc-311235978898996/, the Interior Designs to Marina Semprevivo, and are an extent of the Home Owners Dreams and Lavish Good Tastes. Sitting atop a mountain side in the desirable gated-community of The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, https://cliffsliving.com/the-cliffs-at-walnut-cove, this Skytop Beauty reaches into the Sky and Invites the Stars to Shine upon it. Spanning over 6,000 SF, this Magnificent Estate is Graced with Soaring Ceilings, Stone Fireplace and Wall-to-Wall Windows in the Two-Story Great Room and provides a Haven for gazing at South Asheville’s view from multiple vantage points. Coffered ceilings, Intricate Stonework and Extensive Interior Stained Woodwork throughout adds Dimension to every Space. Multiple Outdoor Private Bedroom Balconies, Decks and Patios provide Residents and Guests with desired Spaciousness and Privacy similar to that of the Biltmore Estate, http://www.biltmore.com/visit. The Lovely Kitchen inspires Joy with High-End Custom Cabinetry and a Gorgeous Contrast of Colors. The Striking Beauty and Richness are created by the Stunning Dark-Colored Island Cabinetry, Light-Colored Perimeter Cabinetry, Refrigerator Door Panels, Exquisite Granite, Multiple Leveled Island and a Fun, Colorful Backsplash. The Vintage Bathroom creates Nostalgia with a Cast Iron Ball & Claw-Feet Slipper Tub, Old-Fashioned High Tank & Pull Toilet and Brick Herringbone Floor. Garden Tubs with Granite Surround and Custom Tile provide Peaceful Relaxation. Waterfall Trickles and Running Streams softly resound from the Outdoor Water Feature while the bench in the Landscape Garden calls you to sit down and relax a while.

Designed for good energy... Our client was looking to create a space for retreat, tranquility, serenity. The existing space was somewhat funky without balance and made it difficult to feel good. Working within an existing courtyard space, we were limited. No matter, our goal was to remedy this outdoor courtyard/sunset balcony space. Our idea was to keep the space cozy but create destination spaces where you can lay down in the grass and look up at the stars. Walk bare foot atop the different hardscape surfaces, reclaimed brick patio & walkway, Silvermist flagstone, terra cotta tiles & tiffway bermuda. The idea of sitting in front of a magical rock island stone fireplace reading a book, sharing conversation with family & friends gives us warm feelings. Bubbling water features dance through out this space creating sounds of trickling brooks you could only hear if you were in a far far away place. The courtyard walls disappear, with plants and trees wrapping there arms around our client while relaxing under a 45 year old ascalone olive tree. A healing garden was the finished product, so much, its a space that you don't ever want to leave....