LINLA Design / Build Environmental Enhancement Awards

11- Standing on the west side of the back lawn area looking towards the pool and house… Perimeter landscaping beds are in view to the left and right.

1- Standing on the cobblestone apron at the driveway looking at the entire front lawn. In view is the new driveway with cobblestone edging, parking spur, and front walkway as well as landscape and a sprawling lawn.  Along the driveway new Prunus Yoshino make up half of the allée.

01_Hilltop Chateau.jpg: Aerial overview of the stately 2+ acre property and finished project.

Connecting bluestone walkways provided a foundation for the overall design. These walkways guided us in shaping an entrance that was both functional and visually appealing, setting a traditional tone. We created a bluestone platform and step system leading to the front door.

Arriving at the new parking court, the owners and their visitors are welcomed by a well-defined approach to their recently renovated home. Screening the parking area near the garage was essential to maintaining a visually cohesive entrance. A bluestone stepping stone path connects the parking court with the garage, ensuring a seamless, navigable route for guests. Along this pathway, strategic plantings bringing a lush yet restrained sense of closure to the landscape design.

3. A closer view reveals the complimentary hues of Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ against the travertine pavers while providing a striking contrast to the vibrant blue of the pool. The thoughtful planting adds texture and depth to the design.

After picture 5 showcases the resort-like feel of the pool with the tropical planting bed and welcoming curve of the pool accented by the darker paver inlay.

5 - A closeup view of the 12’ wide sheer descent water feature which includes (3) 24” wide spillways.  Evergreens in the background hide the pool equipment from view and a row of Karl Forster grasses glisten in the sun behind the water feature.

Aerial view at night

After picture one shows the view of the patio and plantings offering a view of the expanse of pavers and coping accents.

The terrace was designed to connect smoothly with the existing deck structure while establishing a distinct zone for the pool area. The upper deck, reserved for intimate dining and gatherings

Aerial view showing the entirety of the rear yard design and final layout.

As you pass through the estate fence and enter the pool area you are welcomed by surrounding landscape, a centrally located pool, and the large pavilion. Existing mature trees were kept offering a canopy feeling along the perimeter of the pool area.

While creating a fun place to play in the sun, we also wanted this space to work for our homeowner at night. The sun shelf in the pool and raised Gunite spa provide the perfect duo.

This photo showcases the vibrant planting palette, including hydrangeas, ornamental grasses, and daylilies, adding color and texture to the landscape. Soft landscape lighting enhances the plantings, casting gentle shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere as dusk falls.

An overview of the pool area from the upper lawn area atop the retaining wall looking across the pool at the pavilion. The enlarged patio with lounge chairs now provides ample space around the pool. The newly added sunshelf is visible in the far corner of the pool and expanded lawn is next to the pavilion.

These low-profile plantings create a unifying rhythm throughout the garden, while Lagerstroemia ‘Tuscarora’ trees add vertical interest, softening the lines of the two-story home and promising to create a dappled canopy over the garden space below as they mature.

Overview blending form, flow, and function with touches of femininity, creating a space that feels like a warm, sunlit idealization of a western garden—a visual experience that transports the viewer.

This image shows how the sunken lounge serves both as a cozy retreat and a functional entertaining space. With seating around a firepit and a nearby bar, it invites guests to gather and relax, while the surrounding terraces offer options for both relaxation and activity.

Corresponds to After Photos 1 & 2. View towards the front property line.

Aerial view looking into the courtyard showing a nice combination of masonry materials with lush plantings.

By reimagining these alleys, our client sought to create a space that would encourage leisurely activities—such as enjoying treats from the local ice cream parlor, sipping coffee, or socializing with friends—while also boosting foot traffic and creating tangible benefits for commercial tenants.

Aerial view of main entertainment spaces - raised deck overlooking the pool, fire feature and shade structure.

After picture 4 depicts the outdoor kitchen. The design nicely complements the firepit and allows for maximum functionality of the area, creating more living space throughout many seasons.