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.

A complete metamorphosis was needed to bring out the buried treasure hidden beneath this yard, and a family of five rattlesnakes had to find a new home! Here’s the short list of the awkward elements that had to be remedied: First, the neighbors’ living room window peered perpetually (like, all the time) and directly into the yard with no privacy whatsoever. None. Second, the vast deep end swallowed up the patio and provided no place for furniture, or walking. Only tripping and treading water was allowed. Third, the sunken lawn must have been an arena of some sort! Intentionally excavated from natural grade a full -42″ from the patio, for no good reason. Fourth, the not-worth-a-visit ramada was the focal point for the entire yard. See it up close! It’s gone. Fifth, the spa was shoved against the farthest wall and provided no invitation. It was so bad, it never had a photo taken! See the statue peeing between the two short columns? It’s over there. Peeing in the corner as all little boys are want to do. Sixth, the bbq and fire place were non-functional and equally uninviting, and here’s a better view of just how crowded the furniture is. Don’t fall in! Last, we will not mention the boulder pile droppings distributed around the yard. Oops! Sorry. The first order of business was to spend several weeks tearing out everything but the pool shell. Then another few weeks were spent wheelbarrowing in a few hundred yards of top soil (there was no access) to fill the matador pit flush to a more relatable -18″. The large gaping trough was then discretely hidden with large removable stones, so it was out of sight but still serviceable. Second, the neighbor was screened instantly with a row of mature Texas Ebony trees in a raised planter, that also housed a sculptural ironwood tree as the focal point of the property, soon to be reflected in the pool’s richer Midnight Blue pebble tec finish. A hundred or so yards of shotcrete filled not only the reclaimed deep end, but also created a sun shelf and spa ledge, now the focal jewel in the foreground as a 360 overflow vanishing edge spa clad in Pewter glass tile from Oceanside Glass, and viewed from all the interior living spaces. The BBQ was tucked around the corner out of sight but still easy access. The fireplace for two gave way to a large inviting built in banco, with a splashes of colorful fabrics to draw one out. The fire pit serves about 10 people easily, for hours at a time. Last but not least, the foreground of the pool became a sweeping entry shelf extending the full length of the pool, bedecked with fiberoptic starlights and six glowing bubblers set low, to just barely break the surface of the water, giving a lovely and tranquil sound while sleeping away with all retractable doors wide open. Simple. Serene. Self-evident. That is the remedy. If your project needs a similar touch, more or less, drop me a line and we’ll figure out a plan.

The Rancho Estate provides a level of luxury that sets it apart from any residence in Los Angeles, breaking the record for the most expensive home ever sold in the Encino area. The Eden Group worked with the client to achieve all their development goals by providing integrated design and engineering services which developed concurrently achieving project milestones while staying within the construction budget. Our residential design team used modern aesthetics which entailed of design elements tailored to provide spacious and unparalleled views of the San Fernando Valley. Attracting a dream buyer is the most important aspect in the eyes of any real estate developer and that is why we chose two words to describe the amenities we incorporated into the design: Vast & Spectacular. The estate allows you to swim with infinite views, get your work out on at the indoor gym, shoot hoops with your friends in the indoor basketball court, go for a round of bowling with your child, chomp on popcorn in your theater, get a massage after the steam room at your private spa, putt a couple hole-in-ones, and if you get bored you can always choose to go for a ride from the collection inside your 16-car garage. Majestic high ceilings mixed wide span openings created a challenge for our engineers given the strict rules in the Baseline Hillside Ordinance and the California Building Code. Our structural engineers prepared innovative design plans which entailed of 150 deep pile foundations mixed with steel and laminated timber framing members. We also used permanent shoring techniques to reduce construction cost by eliminating the need for temporary shoring plans for both the structure foundation and on-site retaining walls. Given that California has some of the strictest stormwater management requirements and the total amount of non-permeable areas on this project, the client was required to construct a 35,000-gallon rain harvesting tank per the Low Impact Development Plan Best Management Practice (BMP’s) standards. Our specialized drainage design team captured all on-site stormwater through trench drains, area drains, and downspouts which routed water to a mechanical sump pump that connected to the storage tank for irrigation use later. Innovative design engineering techniques used on this project allowed for increased safety and sustainability making the Rancho Estate a masterpiece of contemporary construction.

Originally surrounded by chain-link fence, with a side walk dangerously not up to code and a tall improperly built retaining wall leaning into the pool deck, this landscape was in dire need of help. We started by tearing out the fence, ripping out the old sidewalk and disassembling the retaining walls surrounding the pool. We then rebuilt the walls in terraces to break up the height surrounding the pool and add planting space. We installed safe natural stone steps with a concrete paver walkway leading to the front and back of the property. Next we added boulders throughout the landscape which both helped retain, add beauty and break up the walls. We then added all the plantings and put L-stone gravel throughout a large portion of the landscape. The flora softened the look of the design, while the stone made maintenance needs lower. We finished the project by installing a fire-pit space and wrapping the poles holding the deck with custom block and caps. All put together there is an impressive display of boulders, year round color and functionality to this beautiful space.

The owners knew they wanted to create spaces in their backyard that be useful and encourage them to be outside more often, but because their backyard space is so massive the scope and size of the project was initially difficult to define. After a few initial rounds of design, the project ended up creating a series of spaces near their house and pool rather than try to utilize the entirety of their yard. The existing pool was situated in proximity (and almost entirely aligned) to a detached garage. The garage was perfectly useful for parking cars, but nothing special Architecturally and certainly not functionally associated with the pool. The cabana would have been too far away from the main home if it were located on the opposite side of pool and would have been too large and visually obtrusive if arrange to the side of the pool. The design of the cabana was conceived as an addition to the garage that more appropriately capped the end of the pool with an openable space that could be used for cooking, lounging in the shade poolside, or playing games in with the space itself. There wasn’t enough space between the garage and pool to contain all the uses they wanted, so an additional shade structure with a dining space and a fire pit with build-in benches was included to the project, located near their existing living room. Board formed concrete walls were used as a common element between the shade structure and the cabana. The base used as a planter wall and back to the bench in the shade structure is maintained in the base of cabana to develop aesthetic cohesion between the two spaces. The cabana engages a build in bar to a series of folding glass walls for compact efficient use. The interior of the cabana had to maintain the existing garage roofline for structural stability, but the interior is vaulted to the highest extent possible. The interior of the vault is lined with wood to frame the space for visual clarity enhancing transparency. A goal of the project was to make a vast backyard more useful at a walkable scale by creating outdoor spaces close to each other and the existing living areas in and around the home. Rather than attempt to encapsulate the entire backyard it creates density around the edges that look onto the backyard. Because the spaces engage with the existing conditions the space has become a much-used outdoor living space. (Photos of After Construction Conditions by Sara Essex Bradley)

Originally surrounded by chain-link fence, with a side walk dangerously not up to code and a tall improperly built retaining wall leaning into the pool deck, this landscape was in dire need of help. We started by tearing out the fence, ripping out the old sidewalk and disassembling the retaining walls surrounding the pool. We then rebuilt the walls in terraces to break up the height surrounding the pool and add planting space. We installed safe natural stone steps with a concrete paver walkway leading to the front and back of the property. Next we added boulders throughout the landscape which both helped retain, add beauty and break up the walls. We then added all the plantings and put L-stone gravel throughout a large portion of the landscape. The flora softened the look of the design, while the stone made maintenance needs lower. We finished the project by installing a fire-pit space and wrapping the poles holding the deck with custom block and caps. All put together there is an impressive display of boulders, year round color and functionality to this beautiful space.

A rustic, beautiful estate with a vast landscape and an easy place to sit back relax and enjoy.
Huge mountain style backyard stone pool photo in Tampa with a roof extension

Originally surrounded by chain-link fence, with a side walk dangerously not up to code and a tall improperly built retaining wall leaning into the pool deck, this landscape was in dire need of help. We started by tearing out the fence, ripping out the old sidewalk and disassembling the retaining walls surrounding the pool. We then rebuilt the walls in terraces to break up the height surrounding the pool and add planting space. We installed safe natural stone steps with a concrete paver walkway leading to the front and back of the property. Next we added boulders throughout the landscape which both helped retain, add beauty and break up the walls. We then added all the plantings and put L-stone gravel throughout a large portion of the landscape. The flora softened the look of the design, while the stone made maintenance needs lower. We finished the project by installing a fire-pit space and wrapping the poles holding the deck with custom block and caps. All put together there is an impressive display of boulders, year round color and functionality to this beautiful space.

Originally surrounded by chain-link fence, with a side walk dangerously not up to code and a tall improperly built retaining wall leaning into the pool deck, this landscape was in dire need of help. We started by tearing out the fence, ripping out the old sidewalk and disassembling the retaining walls surrounding the pool. We then rebuilt the walls in terraces to break up the height surrounding the pool and add planting space. We installed safe natural stone steps with a concrete paver walkway leading to the front and back of the property. Next we added boulders throughout the landscape which both helped retain, add beauty and break up the walls. We then added all the plantings and put L-stone gravel throughout a large portion of the landscape. The flora softened the look of the design, while the stone made maintenance needs lower. We finished the project by installing a fire-pit space and wrapping the poles holding the deck with custom block and caps. All put together there is an impressive display of boulders, year round color and functionality to this beautiful space.

Originally surrounded by chain-link fence, with a side walk dangerously not up to code and a tall improperly built retaining wall leaning into the pool deck, this landscape was in dire need of help. We started by tearing out the fence, ripping out the old sidewalk and disassembling the retaining walls surrounding the pool. We then rebuilt the walls in terraces to break up the height surrounding the pool and add planting space. We installed safe natural stone steps with a concrete paver walkway leading to the front and back of the property. Next we added boulders throughout the landscape which both helped retain, add beauty and break up the walls. We then added all the plantings and put L-stone gravel throughout a large portion of the landscape. The flora softened the look of the design, while the stone made maintenance needs lower. We finished the project by installing a fire-pit space and wrapping the poles holding the deck with custom block and caps. All put together there is an impressive display of boulders, year round color and functionality to this beautiful space.

Originally surrounded by chain-link fence, with a side walk dangerously not up to code and a tall improperly built retaining wall leaning into the pool deck, this landscape was in dire need of help. We started by tearing out the fence, ripping out the old sidewalk and disassembling the retaining walls surrounding the pool. We then rebuilt the walls in terraces to break up the height surrounding the pool and add planting space. We installed safe natural stone steps with a concrete paver walkway leading to the front and back of the property. Next we added boulders throughout the landscape which both helped retain, add beauty and break up the walls. We then added all the plantings and put L-stone gravel throughout a large portion of the landscape. The flora softened the look of the design, while the stone made maintenance needs lower. We finished the project by installing a fire-pit space and wrapping the poles holding the deck with custom block and caps. All put together there is an impressive display of boulders, year round color and functionality to this beautiful space.

Product: Authentic Limestone for Exterior Living Spaces. Ancient Surfaces Contacts: (212) 461-0245 Email: Sales@ancientsurfaces.com Website: www.AncientSurfaces.com The design of external living spaces is known as the 'Al Fresco' design style as it is called in Italian. 'Al Fresco' translates into 'the open' or 'the cool/fresh exterior'. Customizing a fully functional outdoor kitchen, pizza oven, BBQ, fireplace or Jacuzzi pool spa all out of old reclaimed Mediterranean stone pieces is no easy task and shouldn’t be created out of the lowest common denominator of building materials such as concrete, Indian slates or Turkish travertine. The one thing you can bet the farmhouse on is that when the entire process unravels and when your outdoor living space materializes from the architects rendering to real life, you will be guaranteed a true Mediterranean living experience if your choice of construction material was as authentic and possible to the Southern Mediterranean regions. We believe that the coziness of your surroundings brought about by the creative usage of our antique stone elements will only amplify that authenticity. whether you are enjoying a relaxing time soaking the sun inside one of our Jacuzzi spa stone fountains or sharing unforgettable memories with family and friends while baking your own pizzas in one of our outdoor BBQ pizza ovens, our stone designs will always evoke in most a feeling of euphoria and exultation that one only gets while being on vacation is some exotic European island surrounded with the pristine beauty of indigenous nature and ancient architecture...

Originally surrounded by chain-link fence, with a side walk dangerously not up to code and a tall improperly built retaining wall leaning into the pool deck, this landscape was in dire need of help. We started by tearing out the fence, ripping out the old sidewalk and disassembling the retaining walls surrounding the pool. We then rebuilt the walls in terraces to break up the height surrounding the pool and add planting space. We installed safe natural stone steps with a concrete paver walkway leading to the front and back of the property. Next we added boulders throughout the landscape which both helped retain, add beauty and break up the walls. We then added all the plantings and put L-stone gravel throughout a large portion of the landscape. The flora softened the look of the design, while the stone made maintenance needs lower. We finished the project by installing a fire-pit space and wrapping the poles holding the deck with custom block and caps. All put together there is an impressive display of boulders, year round color and functionality to this beautiful space.

Originally surrounded by chain-link fence, with a side walk dangerously not up to code and a tall improperly built retaining wall leaning into the pool deck, this landscape was in dire need of help. We started by tearing out the fence, ripping out the old sidewalk and disassembling the retaining walls surrounding the pool. We then rebuilt the walls in terraces to break up the height surrounding the pool and add planting space. We installed safe natural stone steps with a concrete paver walkway leading to the front and back of the property. Next we added boulders throughout the landscape which both helped retain, add beauty and break up the walls. We then added all the plantings and put L-stone gravel throughout a large portion of the landscape. The flora softened the look of the design, while the stone made maintenance needs lower. We finished the project by installing a fire-pit space and wrapping the poles holding the deck with custom block and caps. All put together there is an impressive display of boulders, year round color and functionality to this beautiful space.

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.

Originally surrounded by chain-link fence, with a side walk dangerously not up to code and a tall improperly built retaining wall leaning into the pool deck, this landscape was in dire need of help. We started by tearing out the fence, ripping out the old sidewalk and disassembling the retaining walls surrounding the pool. We then rebuilt the walls in terraces to break up the height surrounding the pool and add planting space. We installed safe natural stone steps with a concrete paver walkway leading to the front and back of the property. Next we added boulders throughout the landscape which both helped retain, add beauty and break up the walls. We then added all the plantings and put L-stone gravel throughout a large portion of the landscape. The flora softened the look of the design, while the stone made maintenance needs lower. We finished the project by installing a fire-pit space and wrapping the poles holding the deck with custom block and caps. All put together there is an impressive display of boulders, year round color and functionality to this beautiful space.

Our International project of a home with a view! Outdoor living required for this warm climate in North America. Sunk in seating area, a vast deck with glass balconies and a large infinity pool at the heart of this outdoor space. The style of the pool and its tile colors are thoughtfully chosen as the client wished for the water of the pool to connect seamlessly with the ocean around sunset. Light beige sandy tiles slowly turn turquoise into infinity.

Located on the slopes of Fresnaye, this project boasts Lion’s Head for a backyard and uninterrupted spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Town’s surroundings. The project is an alteration and addition to an existing house to convert it into two apartments, each consisting of two storeys. The top apartment includes a living and dining area on the fourth floor which opens onto a cantilevered pool and deck supported by impressive concrete columns. The result is the experience of being in an endless pool of water as one relaxes and enjoys the vast ocean views. A strong intangible connection between the viewer and what lies beyond is created. Although the apartments are housed in the same structure, they possess unique and contrasting interiors.