Garden Styles That Add Value

Landscaping is as important to the exterior of a home as interior design is to the rooms within. A well-designed garden enhances the home's architectural style. It also provides an appealing outdoor living area for family and friends to enjoy.

The dramatic stone accents on this contemporary home inspired a stunning back yard rock garden, complete with a waterfall and pond.

The home's straight lines and squared windows are contrasted by a curved patio and the undulating edges of the water garden. The rock work is both aesthetically pleasing and functional -- the sloped back yard is retained by a rock wall, eliminating the need for a fence.

Planting space around the pond was created by building a second low stone wall approximately three feet from the edge of the pond itself. Perennials are the ideal plantings here, as they provide visual interest throughout the seasons. In late spring, annuals may be added to fill any empty spaces.

On the patio, a hot tub is protected by a wood lattice screen on one side and by a fabric panel hung from a curtain rod on the other. The lattice screen is topped by an overhead trellis, perfect for supporting climbing plants. In summer, hanging baskets and patio flower pots make colorful additions to these permanent garden structures.

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