Photography by John Merkl
Inspiration for a large country brown two-story wood gable roof remodel in San Francisco with a shingle roof

Mid-sized elegant built-in desk medium tone wood floor and brown floor home office photo in Los Angeles with white walls

Example of a mid-sized mid-century modern enclosed medium tone wood floor and brown floor game room design in Seattle with white walls and no fireplace

This partially wooded, acre and a half lot in West Dundee presented many challenges. The clients began working with a Landscape Architect in the early spring, but after not getting the innovative ideas they were seeking, the home builder and Architect suggested the client contact our landscape design/build firm. We immediately hit it off with the charismatic clients. They had a tall order for us: complete the design and implement the construction within a three month period. For many projects this would be a reasonable time frame. However construction delays and the coordination of multiple trades left a very short window to complete the work. Beyond the tight time frame the site required specific care in preserving the many mature surrounding trees, as well as addressing a vast grade change. Over fifteen feet of grade change occurs from one end of this woodland property to the other. All of these constraints proved to be an enormous challenge as we worked to include and coordinate the following elements: the drive layout, a dramatic front entry, various gardens, landscape lighting, irrigation, and a plan for a backyard pool and entertainment space that already had been started without a clear plan. Fortunately, the client loved our design ideas and attention to detail and we were able to mobilize and begin construction. With the seamless coordination between our firm and the builder we implemented all the elements of this grand project. In total eight different crews and five separate trades worked together to complete the landscape. The completed project resulted in a rewarding experience for our firm, the builder and architect, as well as the client. Together we were able to create and construct a perfect oasis for the client that suited the beautiful property and the architecture of this dream home.

This partially wooded, acre and a half lot in West Dundee presented many challenges. The clients began working with a Landscape Architect in the early spring, but after not getting the innovative ideas they were seeking, the home builder and Architect suggested the client contact our landscape design/build firm. We immediately hit it off with the charismatic clients. They had a tall order for us: complete the design and implement the construction within a three month period. For many projects this would be a reasonable time frame. However construction delays and the coordination of multiple trades left a very short window to complete the work. Beyond the tight time frame the site required specific care in preserving the many mature surrounding trees, as well as addressing a vast grade change. Over fifteen feet of grade change occurs from one end of this woodland property to the other. All of these constraints proved to be an enormous challenge as we worked to include and coordinate the following elements: the drive layout, a dramatic front entry, various gardens, landscape lighting, irrigation, and a plan for a backyard pool and entertainment space that already had been started without a clear plan. Fortunately, the client loved our design ideas and attention to detail and we were able to mobilize and begin construction. With the seamless coordination between our firm and the builder we implemented all the elements of this grand project. In total eight different crews and five separate trades worked together to complete the landscape. The completed project resulted in a rewarding experience for our firm, the builder and architect, as well as the client. Together we were able to create and construct a perfect oasis for the client that suited the beautiful property and the architecture of this dream home.

Located in the town of Palm Beach, this Infinity Edge style pool takes a timeless European tradition and sets it against a South Floridian backdrop. Setting foot onto the deck we’re welcomed by 16”x16” deck pavers with turf grass creating a classic visual pattern. Dominican Coral Stone and chiseled Limestone were selected to frame the perimeter of the pool and for a natural finish to the infinity edge wall. The glass blue tile that fills in the pool floor mirrors the sky and flows right into the vast blue sea. A pair of palms completes the serene setting by providing just enough shade when you need it. Photo by Van Kirk & Sons

Located in the town of Palm Beach, this Infinity Edge style pool takes a timeless European tradition and sets it against a South Floridian backdrop. Setting foot onto the deck we’re welcomed by 16”x16” deck pavers with turf grass creating a classic visual pattern. Dominican Coral Stone and chiseled Limestone were selected to frame the perimeter of the pool and for a natural finish to the infinity edge wall. The glass blue tile that fills in the pool floor mirrors the sky and flows right into the vast blue sea. A pair of palms completes the serene setting by providing just enough shade when you need it. Photo by Van Kirk & Sons

Blake Worthington, Rebecca Duke
Inspiration for a huge contemporary formal and open concept light wood floor and gray floor living room remodel in Los Angeles with white walls, a standard fireplace, a stone fireplace and no tv

This Ranch Hacienda hillside estate boasts well over 13,000 square feet under roof. A loggia serves as the backbone for the design. Each space, both interior and exterior, has a direct response to the linear expression of outdoor space. The exterior materials and detailing are rustic and simple in nature. The mass and scale create drama and correspond to the vast desert skyline and adjacent majestic McDowell mountain views. Features of the house include a motor court with dual garages, a separate guest quarters, and a walk-in cooler. Silverleaf is known for its embodiment of traditional architectural styles, and this house expresses the essence of a hacienda with its communal courtyard spaces and quiet luxury. This was the first project of many designed by Architect C.P. Drewett for construction in Silverleaf, located in north Scottsdale. Project Details: Architecture | C.P. Drewett, AIA, DrewettWorks, Scottsdale, AZ Builder | Sonora West Development, Scottsdale, AZ Photography | Dino Tonn, Scottsdale, AZ

A very small South Tampa backyard (typical) turned into a very usable space. Approx. 265 sq. ft. this small pool or spool (spa pool) has everything one needs to enjoy outdoor living life. Offset to one side of the yard, it allows for max use of the space. The approx. 330 sq. ft. french pattern silver travertine pool deck and straight edge pool coping gives this backyard a clean, simple, modern feel. With the soft zoyisa grass expanding almost to pool edges it gives the small space a vast, clean feel. The sunshelf in the pool adds a place of pause before entering the pool which has a max depth of 6 feet. No matter what time of year the spool is equiped with a pool heater that will have this oasis to 87 plus degrees within several hrs or less. Landscape Fusion

This rectangular, sun-drenched pool area is flawlessly integrated into the vast, open landscape, offering a feeling of luxurious escape. The design features a clean-lined pool with an elegant water feature that adds a gentle, soothing ambiance. An adjacent raised, square spa, clad in warm-toned natural stone, provides the ultimate spot for year-round indulgence and relaxation. The expansive, light-colored decking defines the outdoor living space, thoughtfully sectioning areas for activity. Central to the lounge area is a square fire pit, also finished in coordinating stone, perfect for evening gatherings. Comfort is paramount, with elegant, suspended cantilever umbrellas providing shade for the tanning loungers, while a row of classic wooden rocking chairs lines the perimeter, offering a picturesque spot to take in the unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside. This design beautifully balances modern amenities with the tranquility of a rustic setting.

This rectangular, sun-drenched pool area is flawlessly integrated into the vast, open landscape, offering a feeling of luxurious escape. The design features a clean-lined pool with an elegant water feature that adds a gentle, soothing ambiance. An adjacent raised, square spa, clad in warm-toned natural stone, provides the ultimate spot for year-round indulgence and relaxation. The expansive, light-colored decking defines the outdoor living space, thoughtfully sectioning areas for activity. Central to the lounge area is a square fire pit, also finished in coordinating stone, perfect for evening gatherings. Comfort is paramount, with elegant, suspended cantilever umbrellas providing shade for the tanning loungers, while a row of classic wooden rocking chairs lines the perimeter, offering a picturesque spot to take in the unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside. This design beautifully balances modern amenities with the tranquility of a rustic setting.

This rectangular, sun-drenched pool area is flawlessly integrated into the vast, open landscape, offering a feeling of luxurious escape. The design features a clean-lined pool with an elegant water feature that adds a gentle, soothing ambiance. An adjacent raised, square spa, clad in warm-toned natural stone, provides the ultimate spot for year-round indulgence and relaxation. The expansive, light-colored decking defines the outdoor living space, thoughtfully sectioning areas for activity. Central to the lounge area is a square fire pit, also finished in coordinating stone, perfect for evening gatherings. Comfort is paramount, with elegant, suspended cantilever umbrellas providing shade for the tanning loungers, while a row of classic wooden rocking chairs lines the perimeter, offering a picturesque spot to take in the unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside. This design beautifully balances modern amenities with the tranquility of a rustic setting.

Example of a tuscan white two-story exterior home design in Los Angeles

This rectangular, sun-drenched pool area is flawlessly integrated into the vast, open landscape, offering a feeling of luxurious escape. The design features a clean-lined pool with dual water features that add a gentle, soothing ambiance. An adjacent raised, square spa, clad in warm-toned natural stone, provides the ultimate spot for year-round indulgence and relaxation. This rectangular, sun-drenched pool area is flawlessly integrated into the vast, open landscape, offering a feeling of luxurious escape. The design features a clean-lined pool with an elegant water feature that adds a gentle, soothing ambiance. An adjacent raised, square spa, clad in warm-toned natural stone, provides the ultimate spot for year-round indulgence and relaxation. The expansive, light-colored decking defines the outdoor living space, thoughtfully sectioning areas for activity. Central to the lounge area is a square fire pit, also finished in coordinating stone, perfect for evening gatherings. Comfort is paramount, with elegant, suspended cantilever umbrellas providing shade for the tanning loungers, while a row of classic wooden rocking chairs lines the perimeter, offering a picturesque spot to take in the unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside. This design beautifully balances modern amenities with the tranquility of a rustic setting.

Top floor is comprised of vastly open multipurpose space and a guest bathroom incorporating a steam shower and inside/outside shower. This multipurpose room can serve as a tv watching area, game room, entertaining space with hidden bar, and cleverly built in murphy bed that can be opened up for sleep overs. Recessed TV built-in offers extensive storage hidden in three-dimensional cabinet design. Recessed black out roller shades and ripplefold sheer drapes open or close with a touch of a button, offering blacked out space for evenings or filtered Florida sun during the day. Being a 3rd floor this room offers incredible views of Fort Lauderdale just over the tops of palms lining up the streets. Color scheme in this room is more vibrant and playful, with floors in Brazilian ipe and fabrics in crème. Cove LED ceiling details carry throughout home. Photography: Craig Denis

This rectangular, sun-drenched pool area is flawlessly integrated into the vast, open landscape, offering a feeling of luxurious escape. The design features a clean-lined pool with an elegant water feature that adds a gentle, soothing ambiance. An adjacent raised, square spa, clad in warm-toned natural stone, provides the ultimate spot for year-round indulgence and relaxation. The expansive, light-colored decking defines the outdoor living space, thoughtfully sectioning areas for activity. Central to the lounge area is a square fire pit, also finished in coordinating stone, perfect for evening gatherings. Comfort is paramount, with elegant, suspended cantilever umbrellas providing shade for the tanning loungers, while a row of classic wooden rocking chairs lines the perimeter, offering a picturesque spot to take in the unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside. This design beautifully balances modern amenities with the tranquility of a rustic setting.

This rectangular, sun-drenched pool area is flawlessly integrated into the vast, open landscape, offering a feeling of luxurious escape. The design features a clean-lined pool with an elegant water feature that adds a gentle, soothing ambiance. An adjacent raised, square spa, clad in warm-toned natural stone, provides the ultimate spot for year-round indulgence and relaxation. The expansive, light-colored decking defines the outdoor living space, thoughtfully sectioning areas for activity. Central to the lounge area is a square fire pit, also finished in coordinating stone, perfect for evening gatherings. Comfort is paramount, with elegant, suspended cantilever umbrellas providing shade for the tanning loungers, while a row of classic wooden rocking chairs lines the perimeter, offering a picturesque spot to take in the unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside. This design beautifully balances modern amenities with the tranquility of a rustic setting.

This rectangular, sun-drenched pool area is flawlessly integrated into the vast, open landscape, offering a feeling of luxurious escape. The design features a clean-lined pool with an elegant water feature that adds a gentle, soothing ambiance. An adjacent raised, square spa, clad in warm-toned natural stone, provides the ultimate spot for year-round indulgence and relaxation. The expansive, light-colored decking defines the outdoor living space, thoughtfully sectioning areas for activity. Central to the lounge area is a square fire pit, also finished in coordinating stone, perfect for evening gatherings. Comfort is paramount, with elegant, suspended cantilever umbrellas providing shade for the tanning loungers, while a row of classic wooden rocking chairs lines the perimeter, offering a picturesque spot to take in the unobstructed views of the surrounding countryside. This design beautifully balances modern amenities with the tranquility of a rustic setting.