Red Butte Garden—beautiful from the parking lot!

This article details a multi-level garden makeover project undertaken by a homeowner who transformed a neglected courtyard into a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space. The project began with a wild courtyard filled with overgrown ivy and accumulated leaves and dirt near the house. The homeowner aimed to preserve existing trees and shrubs and the old brick walls while introducing different zones and levels to the garden. A primary goal was to create a comfortable seating area. The homeowner's husband constructed bespoke wooden bench seats for the terrace, overcoming budget constraints for pre-made outdoor sofas. Initial issues with ivy dropping wet leaves and discolouring the wood led to switching from outdoor furniture oil to deck oil for better protection. The lower level, previously just a paved area, was subsequently developed into an 'outdoor room,' complete with custom seat pads, cushions, and an upcycled coffee table. Creative upcycling extended to other areas of the garden. An old window frame was repurposed into an outdoor mirror, which was installed on a brick wall after removing the ivy, effectively opening up and enhancing the space. An existing garden table and chairs from the homeowner's previous residence were incorporated to establish a dining zone at the far end of the garden. For the area near the back door, decorative touches were added, including shelving made from a salvaged wooden ladder, adorned with vases, pots, and accessories. A small wooden trolley, originally used at the couple's wedding, was repurposed to hold plants and accessories, creating a charming workstation. The planting scheme focused on creating a cottage garden aesthetic, attracting birds, butterflies, and bees. The homeowner prioritized retaining mature shrubs and an old apple tree and successfully rescued a pink climbing rose from the ivy. Despite a lack of prior gardening knowledge, the homeowner researched online to understand plant care, leading to successful relocations of a hydrangea and a fig tree to more suitable spots. The transformation successfully made the garden feel larger, facilitating more outdoor time for meals and entertaining. Evening use is enhanced by solar lights in the trees and a patio heater. The family also enjoys outdoor film nights using a projector and a white sheet. Jam-jar lights with solar-powered fairy lights were added for ambiance. The biggest challenge was the split-level layout and the overgrown ivy on the old brick walls. The homeowner introduced self-seeding annuals like Verbena, Bonariensis, Asters, Cornflowers, and Snapdragons to provide continuous color and allow plants to spill over borders, softening the landscaping lines. The result is a vibrant, multi-functional space that has gained the approval of the family cat. #GardenMakeover #CourtyardGarden #OutdoorLiving #DIYGarden #Upcycling #GardenDesign #BanquetteSeating #PlantingIdeas #HomeImprovement

Achieving a magazine-worthy urban garden is often more complex than simply purchasing plants and placing them in unprepared soil. This process involves multiple facets such as excavation, grading, drainage, masonry, fencing, irrigation, lighting, and soil amendment before any planting occurs, and necessitates selecting the appropriate plants for their specific locations. Alice S. Marcus Krieg, co-founder of Groundworks, a Brooklyn-based garden design-build firm established in 2001 with Carmen DeVito, notes that clients often present magazine images of gardens, unaware that these designs may be unsuitable for a Brooklyn climate, like those from Southern California. Many Brooklyn homeowners desire a lush green lawn, but Krieg points out that lawns are high-maintenance, requiring full sun, frequent mowing (every seven to ten days), and substantial water and fertilizer. Groundworks addresses these challenges through a structured process. An initial consultation focuses on understanding client desires and intended use for the space. Subsequently, the team presents three garden layout options with estimated costs. Once a design is chosen, a budget set, and an agreement signed, the installation phase begins. Groundworks manages all aspects of the project, including subcontracting masonry and carpentry, overseeing installation, and personally handling soil preparation and planting. Following installation, they offer ongoing maintenance services or provide a monthly to-do list for clients who prefer a hands-on approach. A significant portion of their work, approximately 65%, involves rear yards of row houses in Brooklyn. This type of project presents unique challenges, as all materials—from fencing and pavers to soil and plants—must be manually transported through the house, increasing labor and delivery costs, which often exceed client expectations. Structural elements represent a substantial part of the cost. For example, fencing for a typical 20-foot-by-40-foot backyard, a common initial client request, can range from $5,000 to $7,000 for cedar stockade and up to $20,000 for high-end ipé horizontal slat fencing. A comprehensive garden project, including fencing, a patio or deck, soil, plants, lighting, and irrigation, can reach mid-five figures, with some brownstone garden projects totaling up to $60,000. Plant material typically constitutes only about 10% of this overall cost. Despite these figures, cost-saving strategies exist. Krieg highlights that many clients inherit existing gardens with valuable but unmaintained elements such as old lilacs, roses, or viburnums. Groundworks assesses these existing plants, pruning and editing them to become focal points, emphasizing that in small urban gardens, each plant must be carefully selected to maximize its contribution. Economical plant choices that thrive year-round are preferred over those that require frequent replacement. For the dappled shade common in Brooklyn backyards, Groundworks recommends plants such as rhododendrons, pieris, climbing hydrangea, and low-growing ornamental grasses like carex and sedge for ground cover. Hardy, shade-tolerant camellias are suggested for floral displays, producing rose-like blooms in spring and fall. Creative solutions for budget-conscious designs include "limbing up" existing trees to expose their trunks and building decks or patios around them, or adding an ipé wood lip to an inexpensive fence to create a custom appearance. Groundworks also utilizes faux turf for children’s play areas, describing it as a high-end product made from recycled, permeable materials with subtle coloration. While costing $25 to $35 per square foot, it offers a 15-year lifespan, negating the annual struggles associated with natural lawns. Krieg and DeVito often encounter homeowners who have attempted to create attractive and functional outdoor spaces themselves, only to find the process more challenging than anticipated. The firm’s decades of knowledge and experience are presented as a solution for those seeking professional assistance with their backyard projects. #GardenDesign #BackyardGardens #UrbanGardening #LandscapeDesign #GroundworksInc #BrooklynGardens #HomeImprovement #OutdoorLiving #FauxTurf

Hiren Patel Architects designed a sprawling Ahmedabad bungalow where the garden is as central as the house itself. Spanning almost an acre, the property features an irregular footprint with strategic projections that foster a dynamic relationship between the built environment and the surrounding natural elements. Multiple outdoor decks are integrated, including an exposed brick porch with Kota stone flooring and a wide, curved verandah, which softens the structure's appearance. Double-height volumes throughout the home incorporate extensive glass to maximize connection with nature, exemplified by a deck that appears to float above a reflective water body. The clients' preference for a forest-like landscape over a traditional lawn allowed for an abundance of greenery. This lush tropical environment extends into semi-open spaces and makes tentative inroads into the living areas. A Zen garden, designed by Anushree Patel, features a water body with stepping stones, creating a natural, untouched aesthetic. The interior spaces benefit from the varied rooflines, which create diverse volumes. The living and family rooms, both double-height, can be combined for larger gatherings. These areas are furnished with olive green leather sofas on herringbone patterned wooden floors, complemented by fabric-upholstered sofas facing a TV. A large palm tree indoors further blurs the line between the house and its garden. A cantilevered staircase, supported by a concrete wall, is illuminated by a slim skylight strip, while an art installation by Radhika hangs overhead. Double-height glazing offers expansive views of the lush surroundings. Addressing the varying preferences within the family, the architects incorporated diverse materials and created distinct pockets throughout the home. Flooring choices include Ambaji white marble, Kota stone, and natural wood. A significant home office space, crucial for the three family members in the legal profession, also serves as a study for the children. The ground floor accommodates the parents' and guest bedrooms, while the upper floor houses the son's bedroom and those of two married daughters who visit daily, fostering a lively atmosphere. A custom-designed, giant wheel-shaped bookcase serves as both a functional library and an art installation, doubling as a popular photo backdrop. The dining area, adjacent to the kitchen, features a square table beneath a large, suspended lighting fixture. This space is bathed in natural light, receiving both eastern morning light and views of the western sunset. A verandah attached to this area fulfills the clients' long-held desire for a Greek island aesthetic, featuring timeless white marble seating that provides the desired look without maintenance concerns. A built-in waterfall feature in the white table adds a soothing auditory element to mealtimes. Individual spaces offer unique experiences. The son's bedroom boasts spectacular garden views through three glass walls, with a horizontal slit high in the wall providing a sliver of light. A daughter’s sand-toned bathroom showcases an audacious cantilevered washbasin counter with an overhead faucet, and an open-air shower enhances the spa-like ambiance. The powder room features a glass floor with a 10-foot deep, stepped void beneath it, augmented by a mirror at the bottom to create an illusion of depth. This design element, inspired by Gujarat's traditional stepwells ('vavs'), serves as a symbolic connection to the family's agricultural heritage. The garden, a fundamental part of the home's experience, was designed concurrently with the house and features a bamboo corridor, Zen succulent planting, a wild forest with a natural stone waterfall and lily pond, a fruit orchard, and a grass courtyard garden. #HirenPatelArchitects #AhmedabadHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #LandscapeArchitecture #IndianArchitecture #ModernHomeDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #LuxuryHomes

The Block's backyard and landscape reveals are consistently a highlight towards the end of each season, showcasing the contestants' final efforts to complete their homes. This period is characterized by high stress and budget constraints as teams strive to deliver awe-inspiring and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces. Despite the challenges, contestants consistently produce exceptional gardens and landscapes, often featuring elements like swimming pools, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens. Steph and Gian, winners of The Block 2023, captivated judges with their Japandi-inspired garden and outdoor living area. A significant financial investment from previous wins allowed them to integrate a sauna, firepit, private dining space, and a pizza kitchen, resulting in a near-perfect score of 38 out of 40. Their design exemplified a harmonious blend of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics, emphasizing natural materials and minimalist design. In The Block 2022, Omar and Oz presented a meticulously landscaped backyard that served as the crowning glory of their finished home. Their design included a 40-foot shipping container pool, a serene pond, and a full-sized tennis/basketball court. The judges lauded their well-executed plan, highlighting the seamless integration of diverse recreational and aesthetic elements into a cohesive outdoor living space. Mitch and Mark's backyard from The Block 2021 was described as lush, green, and enveloping, creating a well-established feel despite its rapid completion. The design featured a clever indoor-outdoor flow, complemented by a second kitchen cabana adjacent to the pool, evoking a 'Palm Springs moment' for the judges with its resort-like ambiance. Rachel and Ryan, also from The Block 2022, designed a luxurious landscape featuring a shipping container pool with expansive views over Gisborne. Their ambitious plan included a wisteria-laden pergola with a fire pit, a flying fox, and notably, a vineyard, all contributing to a sophisticated and family-friendly outdoor environment. Kirsty and Jesse from The Block 2021 undertook the significant task of landscaping what was arguably the largest suburban backyard in the show's history. Their efforts resulted in a well-appointed entertaining and dining area, a luxurious Dave Franklin pool, and a modern fire pit with a cantilevered timber seat, earning them a near-perfect score of 29½. Luke and Jasmin's 2020 backyard was recognized for its sophisticated and creative design, featuring an 'Instagrammable' pizza party pit area and a distinctive curved timber armchair. This innovative use of space was praised for its comfort and unique aesthetic appeal. Sarah and George, from the same season, transformed their courtyard into a functional, oasis-style backyard through clever zoning. Their space, which included a maple tree, swimming pool, and pizza oven, was deemed a significant selling point due to its amenity and style. Leah and Ash's 2023 backyard was designed around a central mature cedar tree, creating a focal point for their outdoor space. The material palette, tile-clad plunge pool, firepit, and outdoor dining area were all lauded by the judges for their thoughtful design and execution. Andy and Deb from The Block 2019 created a relaxed and versatile courtyard, despite initial criticism for omitting an outdoor dining table or sofa. Their space was appreciated for its inviting and 'chill' atmosphere. Mitch and Mark, in their 2019 appearance, designed a statement-making courtyard with a towering graphic print of palm trees, a practical layout, and a low-maintenance garden. This space, reminiscent of Palm Springs, was celebrated for its pure joy and distinctive style. Norm and Jess from The Block 2018 transformed their terrace into a functional outdoor area, almost achieving backyard status with a well-planned kitchen, louvred pergola, astroturfing, and a fish pond, all set against striking city views. Finally, Ronnie and Georgia from The Block 2017 showcased a circular 'ten-tonne-tessie' pool flanked by palm trees, which stood out as the highlight of their outdoor design. #TheBlock #BackyardDesign #LandscapeArchitecture #OutdoorLiving #HomeRenovation #SwimmingPools #GardenDesign #JapandiStyle

The Illuminus Group, a development firm, collaborated with CLB Architects to design a residential property in a private enclave in Park City, Utah. The objective was to create a timeless, elegant residence that offered extensive amenities while harmonizing with the natural surroundings, thereby setting a new standard for thoughtful design in the region. The 4.9-acre site, situated on a steep slope in the Wasatch Mountains at 8,500 feet above sea level, provides commanding views of the Park City Mountain resort and the valley. CLB Architects, known for their experience in high-end mountain residences, approached the landscape with careful consideration. Their primary goal was to make the 18,000-square-foot house, named Monitor's Rest, as compact as possible to prevent it from sprawling extensively into the forest. The design incorporates an L-shape plan, built into the hillside, making it appear smaller than its actual size upon approach. A central courtyard provides a serene entry point, offering views of the sky and allowing natural light into the home. The exterior features a material palette of Croatian limestone, shou sugi ban cedar cladding, steel-framed windows, and a copper roof, chosen for their durability against harsh winters. The interior layout is designed to contrast with the enclosed courtyard. A limestone foyer serves as the central hub, directing visitors to the primary bedroom suite and office on one side, and the living and dining areas on the other. Straight ahead, a dramatic atrium with forest-facing windows leads down to guest bedrooms and a bowling alley. Common areas, including a large patio with an indoor-outdoor pool, are oriented southwest, offering a strong connection to the slope and environment. The property also features ski-in/ski-out access with a dedicated locker room, while spa and sports facilities are discreetly located in the back. For the interiors, CLB collaborated with David Ostrander, co-founder and creative director of Iluminus. A key challenge was to maintain a focused aesthetic despite the house's vastness. This was achieved through a consistent material selection, including hemlock ceilings, oak floors, and walls clad in oak or Croatian limestone. The primary bathroom exemplifies this pared-down approach with its Zen-like composition of wood, stone, and black metal, featuring narrow mirrors that allow views of the trees and a freestanding wood tub for a sense of calm. The adjacent bedroom similarly employs restrained design with oak paneling and custom furniture. A distinctive feature of the property is a 19-by-19-foot tower room at the back of the ground floor. This pop-up perch, inspired by national park watchtowers, offers 360-degree views and serves as a whimsical yet sophisticated retreat. It includes a wraparound balcony, a floating fireplace, a rosewood table, and a Mrirt rug, designed to be both fun and refined for all ages. Overall, Monitor's Rest successfully integrates extensive amenities and luxurious living with a deep respect for its mountainous setting, elevating the architectural standard in the Park City community. #ResidentialDesign #LuxuryHomes #MountainArchitecture #ParkCityUtah #CLBArchitects #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #WasatchMountains #ArchitecturalInnovation

Gizelle Bryant, a cast member of *The Real Housewives of Potomac*, has been documenting the extensive renovation of her home, affectionately dubbed "Hotel Gizelle," since its purchase in 2019. She has consistently shared updates on various stages of the project, expressing her intention for it to be her "forever home," thus taking her time with the modifications. While some areas of her home, such as her bedroom, were still undergoing finishing touches as of September 2023, her backyard and patio area appear to be largely completed, offering a fresh glimpse into her design choices. The article highlights specific updates to Gizelle's outdoor living space, first referencing a previous depiction during Season 7 of *RHOP*. At that time, the backyard featured a cream and taupe-colored seating arrangement on a stone patio, illuminated by a black ironwork lighting fixture, all beneath a white wood pergola. The recent Season 8 premiere episode, aired on November 5, showcased further enhancements to this area during a backyard gathering hosted by Gizelle for her castmates. Notable new design elements include chic black trim adorning the white brick exterior of her home, creating a striking contrast. A light blue island has been added, serving as a functional and aesthetically pleasing surface for entertaining, seen holding a charcuterie board and drinks during the episode. The patio's sectional furniture received a vibrant update with an array of pink pillows in varying shades and textures, complemented by an acrylic side table holding a bouquet and a rectangular fire pit positioned centrally. The fire pit itself contained what appeared to be pink-colored stones, further integrating the rosy hue into the design scheme. The background revealed a large white grill and abundant lush greenery, contributing to a serene outdoor ambiance. Despite the appealing updates to the patio, the article also humorously points out a minor logistical challenge. Castmates Ashley Darby and Robyn Dixon encountered difficulty navigating the sloped walkway leading to the back patio. Ashley lightheartedly commented on the perpetual state of construction at "Hotel Gizelle," questioning when a completion date would be set, particularly in jest about potential injuries on the uneven terrain. Robyn echoed these concerns, jokingly expressing her fear of falling while carefully traversing the path. This detail provides a candid, albeit humorous, insight into the ongoing nature of home renovations, even in seemingly finished areas. The article concludes by emphasizing the continuous evolution of Gizelle's home, despite the evident progress in her outdoor sanctuary. #GizelleBryant #RealHousewivesOfPotomac #HomeRenovation #BackyardDesign #PatioDecor #OutdoorLiving #HomeStyle #RealityTV

Vertical gardens offer a practical solution for individuals with limited backyard space or those seeking an ergonomic gardening experience. These space-saving units allow for the cultivation of various plants, from herbs and succulents to strawberries, without the need for extensive bending or kneeling. They are particularly well-suited for small porches, balconies, and patios, with many models also suitable for indoor use, depending on lighting conditions and plant type. The selection of a vertical garden involves considering several key factors, including materials, size, and design. Materials commonly used include wood, metal, and plastic, or combinations thereof. Wooden vertical gardens often impart a rustic aesthetic and are generally robust. Metal gardens are known for their durability, lighter frames, and often feature powder coatings to prevent rust and corrosion. Plastic options are typically the most economical, offering versatility and sturdiness, though with less aesthetic charm than wood or metal. Size is another critical consideration, as vertical gardens vary significantly. Some designs maintain a small footprint by stacking planters directly upwards, while others feature planters that extend wider than the base for a more expansive display. Users should consider both the overall height and the height of individual planters, especially for indoor placement or for individuals who prefer not to bend excessively. The article highlights that the selected vertical gardens are top-rated, cover various styles and materials, and cater to different price points, with an emphasis on stability and durability based on past Popular Mechanics reports. The article then details several top recommendations, each with unique features. The Lettuce Grow Farmstand Hydroponic Vertical Garden is highlighted as a sustainable option, made from ocean-bound plastic and using 95% less water than traditional gardening. It's a self-fertilizing system that comes with essential nutrients and a pH testing kit, offering a high-end experience suitable for a range of plant types and featuring various add-ons like grow lights and heaters. For those seeking a visually appealing option for a wall, the Leisure Season Wood Vertical Garden is presented as a stylish, multi-tier cedar structure that can also support climbing plants. It includes drainage holes and plastic liners, and is weather-resistant for both indoor and outdoor use. The Amazing Creation Stackable Vertical Garden Planter is noted for its affordability and versatility, ideal for small plants like strawberries and herbs. Its stackable design allows for adjustable height, and each tier includes a soil separator to prevent leakage. For metal options, the Outland Living Four-Tier Vertical Garden is recommended for its food-grade plastic bins set within a curved, rust-resistant metal frame, suitable for taller spaces. Similarly, the Giantex Vertical Garden offers a stylish wooden design with independently usable, tilted planters for optimal sunlight exposure. The Outland Living Five-Tier Vertical Garden provides a mid-sized metal option with an ergonomic tiered design and powder-coated steel frame. For space-saving wall-mounted solutions, the HilarityMax 36-Pocket Vertical Garden, made of reinforced felt with rust-resistant eyelets, offers an inexpensive way to create a living wall. The Cyan Design Vertical Garden stands out as a stylish indoor option with a cascading design and removable, deep buckets. The Arlmont & Co. Vertical Garden offers a compact, five-tiered plastic design with an independent drainage system, suitable for smaller outdoor areas. Lastly, the Algreen Vertical Living Wall Planter is presented as a durable, weather-resistant wall-mounted option with adjustable planter boxes, while the YardCraft Cedar Vertical Garden is a double-sided cedar model, ideal for accommodating plants with varying sunlight needs, though it requires sealing for outdoor use. #VerticalGardens #HomeGardening #SpaceSaving #IndoorGardening #OutdoorGardening #Hydroponics #GardeningTools #PlantingSolutions #HomeImprovement

The Monroe County Parking Garage in Bloomington, Indiana, offers a unique example of integrating living design elements into typically utilitarian architecture. Completed in 2017, this above-ground parking garage, designed by Axis Architecture + Interiors, provides 240 parking spaces to alleviate congestion for county employees and the general public. Rather than presenting a stark or bland facade, the structure incorporates a LiveWall greenwall system, transforming five of its window openings into vibrant, colorful displays. The greenwall system, installed by ProCLAD, Inc., uses modular planter boxes that are structurally integrated into the building's design. Because the system was not mounted on a solid wall surface, a specialized framework of tube steel (4x4x1/4-inch) was designed and installed across the 8-foot-long by 6-foot-tall window openings. The LiveWall system's horizontal aluminum rails are then bolted to these frames, allowing for six rows of modular planter boxes in each of the five sections. This innovative installation method ensures a secure fit while providing easy access for maintenance from inside the garage. Each greenwall section features a total of 180 annual plants, including yellow, red, and purple coleus, as well as Silver Falls, red and pink begonias, and sweet potato vines. These plants create a dynamic and visually appealing element that breaks up the brick and concrete exterior, offering a cheerful greeting to visitors. The choice of annuals allows for seasonal changes and continuous aesthetic appeal, with the county able to replant with ease. The project highlights how greenwalls can enhance the urban landscape and transform conventional building typologies like parking garages into more aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly structures. The high-impact, UV-resistant components of the LiveWall system ensure durability and low maintenance, contributing to its long-term viability. This initiative by Monroe County not only addresses a practical need for parking but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainable and innovative design, garnering positive feedback from the community for its bright and distinctive appearance. The design and installation involved a collaborative effort between the architect, general contractor, green wall manufacturer, and specialized installation consultants, resulting in a successful integration of living architecture into public infrastructure. #MonroeCounty #ParkingGarage #Greenwall #LivingArchitecture #LiveWall #UrbanGreening #SustainableDesign #VerticalGarden #BloomingtonIndiana

This article showcases a charming garden shed located in Birmingham, Alabama, part of a larger garden featured in Country Living magazine's August/September issue. The shed and its surrounding garden are described as enchanting and storybook-like, with a particular highlight on a fairy garden within the landscape. The shed itself is visually appealing, characterized by its shingled exterior and a vibrant yellow door, which contributes to its whimsical appearance. The outdoor space around the shed is thoughtfully arranged, featuring an iron table and chairs, suggesting a peaceful spot for relaxation or potting activities. The detailed description of the garden environment includes various elements that enhance its aesthetic and functional appeal. Potted plants and rubber boots are visible outside the potting shed, indicating an active gardening space. The garden boasts a variety of colorful flowers, such as delphiniums and red gerber daisies, and also incorporates different types of foliage, including lettuces. These floral and botanical arrangements are presented in diverse ways, including a stone container filled with colorful flowers and a tiered plant stand displaying potted blooms, adding layers of visual interest to the garden. Beyond the vibrant plant life, the garden also features decorative and playful elements. A stone gnome is strategically placed on a gravel path, reinforcing the storybook theme. The mention of a 'charming fairy garden' suggests a dedicated miniature landscape designed to evoke a sense of fantasy and wonder. The overall design emphasizes a blend of practical gardening space with decorative touches that create an inviting and magical atmosphere. The article implicitly encourages readers to draw inspiration from this picturesque setting for their own outdoor spaces. The visual tour through the photographs aims to immerse the audience in the beauty and intricate details of this unique Birmingham garden. #GardenShed #GardenDesign #Fairyland #CountryLiving #BirminghamAlabama #OutdoorDecor #FloralArrangement #HomeAndGarden

Landscape designer Kathy Moreau emphasizes creating immersive outdoor spaces rather than mere visual spectacles. Her approach, termed "total immersion," focuses on engaging all five senses to draw individuals fully into the landscape, as exemplified by her work on a lakeside bungalow in northern Westchester County. Moreau, through her practice Verdant View, combines her expertise in horticulture and design, allowing her to select the most appropriate plants for any given environment, with a particular affinity for native species and their ecological benefits. This philosophy was central to her design for the Craftsman-style lakefront property, where she collaborated closely with the client, an enthusiastic gardener herself. Moreau's initial task involved transforming a simple rectangular swimming pool area. The existing coping was bordered only by crabgrass leading to a retaining wall. Her solution introduced a "brocade" of groundcovers, including creeping thyme, stonecrop, and Irish moss, alongside annual vinca, to create a textured, walkable, and playable surface. This transformation encouraged the family to interact more frequently with the revitalized space. Beyond the pool, Moreau extended her design to the lake's horizon, framing the view with a diverse array of perennials and shrubs. She integrated irises with existing daylilies and added wand flowers, garden phlox, sedum, Russian sage, asters, cimicifuga, and lady's mantle to create an animated and visually rich experience. At the water's edge, near the dock, Moreau planted rudbeckias and helianthus to attract pollinators and extend the blooming season, complementing these additions with a rustic wood gate for a sense of enclosure. To encourage outdoor living, she designed a dining area close to the house, shaded by a pergola adorned with grapevines and 'New Dawn' roses, ensuring a fragrant environment throughout the growing season. This area is further sheltered by 'Annabelle' hydrangeas and lilacs, contributing to both texture and aroma. The front entrance also received attention, with a dense interplay of ferns and creeping phlox, subtly edged with blue-eyed grass for a burst of purple flowers from spring to midsummer. Moreau's design philosophy culminates in dynamic, memorable landscapes that evolve over time and continuously engage the homeowners. The goal is to inspire residents to deeply connect with their outdoor environment, perhaps even to the point of removing their shoes and wading into the garden. The project details also highlight the involvement of Verdant View for landscape design services by Katherine Moreau and Fedele Landscaping for implementation, both operating out of Westchester County, New York, reinforcing the regional focus of the article. #LandscapeDesign #GardenImmersion #WestchesterGardens #NativePlants #OutdoorLiving #Horticulture #SensoryGardens #PerennialGardens #LakesideProperty

This article explores the transformation of urban rooftops into functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces, focusing on two distinct projects in Pittsburgh. It highlights how city dwellers, even with limited ground-level space, can create private havens through thoughtful design and landscaping. The first example features Nachum Golan and Steve Hough, who converted the purely functional roof of their Shadyside penthouse into a sophisticated garden oasis. Their approximately 900-square-foot rooftop is divided into two sections, offering both open-air dining and a shaded canopy with ample seating. Golan, drawing on his interior design background and experience with irrigation techniques from Israel, carefully curated a variety of annuals, including ivy topiaries and hydrangeas, alongside Japanese palm, pine trees, and miniature Alberta spruce trees. These plants not only contribute to the aesthetic but also help to mitigate street noise, creating a sense of seclusion. The couple emphasizes the importance of selecting plants suited to the available light and shade, and investing in durable all-weather furniture that can withstand various seasons. The second case study details Jon Withrow’s rooftop deck in the Mexican War Streets on the North Side. As an interior designer, Withrow recognized the potential of utilizing every available inch of his property. He replaced a dilapidated 1920s addition with a nearly 400-square-foot expansion that included an updated kitchen and dining room on the first floor, and a terrace off the second story. This new terrace became a vibrant entertaining space, complete with flowering potted plants, colorful pillows on waterproof Sunbrella furniture, a grill, and plumbing for a hot tub. The 15-foot elevation provides a unique view of the surrounding neighborhood, fostering a sense of “intimacy.” Withrow, initially planning a short-term project, developed a deep affection for the house and neighborhood, leading him to fully embrace the rooftop deck. He also transformed his small backyard into a private retreat featuring a large fish pond with a fountain, which not only adds to the ambiance but also helps to mask city noises. The patio floor incorporates salvaged bricks from the original addition, adding a historical touch. Both projects serve as examples of how creative design and a strategic approach can turn overlooked urban spaces into cherished outdoor living areas, demonstrating the practicality and joy of rooftop gardening and outdoor design in a city setting. #RooftopGardening #UrbanOasis #HomeDesignPittsburgh #OutdoorLivingSpaces #InteriorDesign #ContainerGardening #PatioDesign #SpaceMaximization

This blog post highlights a penthouse apartment located at 217 2nd Avenue in the East Village, which was recently put on the market for $2.8 million. The apartment is a full-floor condo that blends old-world New York charm with rustic design elements. This blend is evident in features such as wide plank pine floors, vintage oak cabinets, and a 'lovingly worn' marble sink. The entrance leads into an industrial-chic commercial-grade kitchen, which features a skylight and a spiral staircase. This kitchen area seamlessly transitions into a spacious dining area. The dining area is characterized by exposed brick walls and aged built-in storage, adding to the apartment's rustic appeal. Pocket doors with etched glass separate the dining room from the living room, which is distinguished by oversized windows, crown molding, and a marble-clad fireplace. The penthouse includes two bedrooms, with a clear distinction in size and amenities between them. The master bedroom offers a wall of closets, abundant natural light, and a second wood-burning fireplace, emphasizing comfort and luxury. Conveniently located just outside the master bedroom are a spa bath and a laundry room, enhancing its functionality. In contrast, the second bedroom is described as small and is situated on the opposite side of the apartment, adjacent to the living room and away from the home's second bathroom, suggesting a less private or less comfortable arrangement compared to the master. A unique feature of this penthouse is its rooftop garden, accessed via the spiral staircase in the kitchen. This rooftop space is described as lush, filled with mature plants, and notably includes a vegetable garden. The presence of a private outdoor space, especially a vegetable garden, is a significant amenity for an urban dwelling. The apartment's location is also highlighted, being only blocks away from Union Square, which offers a vibrant city experience with convenient access to various amenities and activities. This combination of traditional design, functional living spaces, and unique outdoor features positions the penthouse as a desirable property in the East Village market, offering a balance of urban convenience and a tranquil, green retreat. #EastVillagePenthouse #RooftopGarden #VegetableGarden #LuxuryRealEstate #NYCArchitecture #IndustrialChic #VintageDesign #Stribling #UnionSquareProximity

Flowering trees significantly enhance a home's curb appeal, and for those seeking a vibrant purple hue, there are numerous attractive and manageable options. This article highlights 15 top choices for purple blooming trees and shrubs, detailing their characteristics, growing conditions, and unique attributes. Redbud trees, native to North America, are celebrated for their pinkish-purple flowers. Varieties like the eastern redbud grow 20 to 30 feet tall, while the 'lavender twist' weeping variety remains under 10 feet, making it suitable for smaller front yards. These trees are hardy in USDA Zones 4 to 9 and bloom from early to mid-spring, attracting various wildlife. Magnolias, particularly the 'Royal Purple' variety, offer deep purple flowers and support beetles and other pollinators. This smaller magnolia stays under 20 feet, has a narrow growth habit, is deer-resistant, and thrives in USDA Zones 6 to 9, blooming mid- to late spring. Lilacs, although technically shrubs, can be cultivated as mini trees, reaching up to 15 feet. Known for their fragrant spring blooms and cold hardiness, they require pruning immediately after flowering as they bloom on old wood. Lilacs are suitable for USDA Zones 3 to 7 and flower mid- to late spring. Jacaranda trees, if climate and space permit, are another excellent choice, producing fragrant purple flowers. These tropical trees prefer moist, slightly acidic soil but require careful placement due to their root systems potentially causing structural damage. They are best suited for USDA Zones 10 to 11 and bloom in spring and summer, growing 25 to 50 feet tall. 'Purple Prince' crabapples are charming trees with bronze leaves and fragrant, reddish-purple spring flowers. They yield edible fruit that can be used for jams or left for birds, growing 18 to 20 feet tall in USDA Zones 4 to 8. Chaste trees, or vitex, are easy to grow purple varieties that prefer sunny spots and well-draining soil but are not very cold hardy and can be invasive in some regions. They bloom from late spring to early fall and reach 8 to 20 feet in height in USDA Zones 7 to 8. Texas mountain laurel, hardy in zones 7 to 11, is a drought-tolerant native with wisteria-like purple flowers that emit a grape-like fragrance, attracting pollinators. It grows up to 20 feet and blooms in early to mid-spring. Korean lilac trees are a compact alternative to common lilacs, growing 6 to 10 feet tall with a rounded habit and greater pest resistance, offering fragrant purple flowers in mid- to late spring in USDA Zones 3 to 8. 'Purple Lily' magnolia, another magnolia variety, produces deep purple blooms with pink interiors early in the season, before leaves emerge. This deer-resistant plant attracts hummingbirds and is suitable for USDA Zones 5 to 8, growing 6 to 12 feet. Desert willow, native to the American Southwest, is highly heat and drought-tolerant. Its airy appearance, slender leaves, and pinkish-purple flowers attract pollinators, blooming mid- to late spring in USDA Zones 6 to 9, reaching 12 to 18 feet. Rose of Sharon, a cold-hardy deciduous hibiscus, can be pruned into a tree-like form, offering purple flowers with single or double frilly petals from summer to fall. It grows 8 to 12 feet in USDA Zones 5 to 8. Crepe myrtle, popular in southern gardens, features a long bloom time with various purple shades, distinctive peeling bark, and high pollution tolerance. It grows 6 to 25 feet and blooms from summer to early fall in USDA Zones 6 to 9. 'Royalty' crabapple, an alternative to 'Purple Prince', displays deep burgundy flowers and dark green leaves, thriving in full sun to partial shade. It is self-fertile, produces edible fruit, and grows 25 to 30 feet in USDA Zones 4 to 8, blooming mid- to late spring. Purple robe locust, a colorful cultivar of the black locust, tolerates some shade and dry soil, producing large, fragrant wisteria-like purple flowers that attract bees in late spring. It reaches 30 to 40 feet and is suitable for USDA Zones 4 to 8. Lastly, wisteria, a vining plant, can be trained on an arbor or trellis to create a tree-like appearance. While Asian varieties can be invasive, American wisteria is a native, non-invasive alternative that benefits wildlife, growing 10 to 25 feet long and blooming mid- to late spring in USDA Zones 5 to 9. #PurpleBloomingTrees #FloweringTrees #CurbAppeal #GardenLandscaping #RedbudTree #Magnolia #Lilac #Jacaranda #Crabapple #ChasteTree #TexasMountainLaurel #DesertWillow #RoseOfSharon #CrepeMyrtle #Wisteria