This small enclave of mixed traditionally-styled homes was designed to emulate the surrounding Lakewood style from the twenties and thirties. While each home is different, the landscapes work together to form a cohesive neighborhood and give the secluded cul-de-sac the feel of a small park. Lush plantings, gravel drives, patios, water features, outdoor kitchens and fireplaces are all customized for each homeowner within the overall theme.
A series of walled courtyards created by architect Max Levy separates the dining, sitting and strolling areas. A dramatic pool juts into the native grasses and pasture below, while elevated walks allow the owners to view their perennial gardens. The remainder of the site is planted to prairie grass and meadow.
The owners of this Arts and Crafts-style home needed a backyard entertaining space to complement the architecture. A new arbor structure and trellis screens views of parking and sets off the stone patio, creating privacy and a quiet oasis for dining and relaxing.
The beauty of this location is the ‘borrowed view’ of parkland, which extends the vista to infinity. It was a barren lot with two-foot wide beds around the edge and one tree in the middle when Dave and his wife bought it –but after sixteen years of experimenting, this property is a lush oasis. Wide sweeps of lawn lead you down to hidden pools and fountains, bordered by a profusion of plants for texture and flowers. A recently added green roof cools both the porch below and the bedroom next to it–while creating an aerial lawn for camping and stargazing.
This Bluffview couple wanted to push their home and landscape into the modern era. The subtle tapering of the pool gives the illusion of a longer space, while fine detailing like the water-level spa and the film of water over the step lend a quiet air. The new cabana, with its grill, fireplace and deep overhangs, provides coziness in winter and a cool oasis in the summer. Hidden away behind the pool house, a beautifully detailed ipe wood outdoor shower completes the spa-like atmosphere.