Photo: © Jude Parkinson-Morgan

This mix of low ground cover plants creates interest while using very little water.

Bufftech Millbrook semi-private vinyl fence - Photo Credit: Bufftech

Installed a new retaining wall island bed.

North side (south-facing) of formal sunken garden. Spring border, full sun. Susan Irving

Land Studio C

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Exterior Worlds was contracted by the Bretches family of West Memorial to assist in a renovation project that was already underway. The family had decided to add on to their house and to have an outdoor kitchen constructed on the property. To enhance these new constructions, the family asked our firm to develop a formal landscaping design that included formal gardens, new vantage points, and a renovated pool that worked to center and unify the aesthetic of the entire back yard. The ultimate goal of the project was to create a clear line of site from every vantage point of the yard. By removing trees in certain places, we were able to create multiple zones of interest that visually complimented each other from a variety of positions. These positions were first mapped out in the landscape master plan, and then connected by a granite gravel walkway that we constructed. Beginning at the entrance to the master bedroom, the walkway stretched along the perimeter of the yard and connected to the outdoor kitchen. Another major keynote of this formal landscaping design plan was the construction of two formal parterre gardens in each of the far corners of the yard. The gardens were identical in size and constitution. Each one was decorated by a row of three limestone urns used as planters for seasonal flowers. The vertical impact of the urns added a Classical touch to the parterre gardens that created a sense of stately appeal counter punctual to the architecture of the house. In order to allow visitors to enjoy this Classic appeal from a variety of focal points, we then added trail benches at key locations along the walkway. Some benches were installed immediately to one side of each garden. Others were placed at strategically chosen intervals along the path that would allow guests to sit down and enjoy a view of the pool, the house, and at least one of the gardens from their particular vantage point. To centralize the aesthetic formality of the formal landscaping design, we also renovated the existing swimming pool. We replaced the old tile and enhanced the coping and water jets that poured into its interior. This allowed the swimming pool to function as a more active landscaping element that better complimented the remodeled look of the home and the new formal gardens. The redesigned path, with benches, tables, and chairs positioned at key points along its thoroughfare, helped reinforced the pool’s role as an aesthetic focal point of formal design that connected the entirety of the property into a more unified presentation of formal curb appeal. To complete our formal landscaping design, we added accents to our various keynotes. Japanese yew hedges were planted behind the gardens for added dimension and appeal. We also placed modern sculptures in strategic points that would aesthetically balance the classic tone of the garden with the newly renovated architecture of the home and the pool. Zoysia grass was added to the edges of the gardens and pathways to soften the hard lines of the parterre gardens and walkway.

Jessica Mims, See In See Out

The open plan area at the rear of the property is undoubtedly the heart of the home. Here, an extension by Charlotte Heather Interiors has resulted in a very long room that encompasses the kitchen, dining and sitting areas. Natural light was a prerequisite for the clients so Charlotte cleverly incorporated roof lights along the space to maximise the light and diffuse it beautifully throughout the day. ‘Early in the morning, the light comes down into the kitchen area where the clients enjoy a coffee, then towards the afternoon the light extends towards the sitting area where they like to read,’ reveals Charlotte. Vast rear bi-folding doors contribute to the space being bathed in light and allow for impressive inside outside use. Entertaining is key to the kitchen and dining area. Warm whites and putty shades envelop the kitchen, which is punctuated by the deep blue of the decorative extractor fan and also the island designed specifically for guests to sit while the client cooks. Brass details sing out and link to the brassware in the master bathroom. Reinforcing the presence of exquisite craftsmanship, a Carl Hansen dining table and chairs in rich walnut injects warmth into the space. A bespoke Tollgard leaf artwork was specially commissioned for the space and brings together the dominant colours in the house. The relaxed sitting area is a perfect example of a space specifically designed to reflect the clients’ needs. The clients are avid readers and bespoke cabinetry houses their vast collection of books. The sofa in the clients’ favourite shade of teal and a dainty white boucle chair are perfect for curling up and reading, while also escalating the softness and femininity in the space. Beyond the bifold doors, the pergola extends the living space further and is designed to provide natural shading and privacy. The space is designed for stylish alfresco entertaining with its chic Carl Hansen furniture. Luxury sheepskins and an outdoor fireplace help combat inclement temperatures. The perfect finishing touch is the wisteria and jasmine that were specially selected to drape over the pergola because they remind the clients of home and also because they echo beautiful blossom.

New landscape remodel, include concrete, lighting, outdoor living space and drought resistant planting.

Riots of roses emerge in spring to scent the walk to the front door.

You can read more about the project through this Houzz Feature link: https://www.houzz.com/magazine/hillside-yard-offers-scenic-views-and-space-for-contemplation-stsetivw-vs~131483772