Landscapes of the Month: A Feature for Every Season - The Edge from the National Association of Landscape Professionals

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Landscapes of the Month: A Feature for Every Season

Photo: Chad Hatcher

This Flower Mound, Texas, home has almost every outdoor feature you can imagine, like a putting green, pool, and cabana. Before this vision came to life, the owners dreamed of having a backyard destination they could enjoy with friends and family. To make their dream a reality, they worked with Complete Landsculpture, based in Dallas, to design and create this unique landscape. Their efforts led to a 2023 Gold Award of Excellence.

As the project began, early planning was crucial for addressing potential risks, like weather delays and other projects on the property. Plans were being made to add a septic system and fence around the site, so the team had to be diligent in their timing for large equipment. Because they planned ahead, they were able to use their equipment when needed. Soil conditions also influenced their early planning needs.

Photo: Chad Hatcher

With so many features in the design, the team wanted to keep a cohesive look throughout the property. But the grades posed a challenge. As the design came together, they placed the pool and cabana between the house and the retaining wall to create a smooth look.

The cabana is elevated several feet to blend in with the adjacent retaining walls and provide a clear vantage point to the pool. Areas near the retaining walls have beds of perennials and shrubs that soften the space while adding texture and color. Around the pool, large planters sit on either side of the waterfall.

The homeowners had an extensive wish list, starting with concrete pads. As you step into the backyard, these pads make it easy to access seating areas and the pool. Between the pads, strips of artificial grass add a natural touch to the space without the need for maintenance.

The pool resides in the middle of the yard, along with a waterfall and hot tub. When large groups are present, they can spread out among the multiple sitting areas along the pool’s edge and other parts of the backyard. Once evening arrives, guests can spread out among several fire pits on the patios. While the cabana offers a larger fireplace.

Photo: Chad Hatcher

Another highlight is the elevated space with the cabana. Next to the cabana, you’ll find another patio with seating. The angle and elevation create a nice view of the backyard, while the stairs provide easy access to the cabana. Inside the cabana, you’ll find an outdoor kitchen with a dining area.

A TV is mounted on the wall over the fireplace for sports fans. Like other parts of the yard, the cabana has concrete stepping pads. However, these pads have stone between them, not grass. The family also wanted space for recreation, so the team installed an artificial lawn and putting green.

As work got underway, Complete Landsculpture faced several challenges with the supply chain. Labor and materials were hard to source, and the effects of COVID-19 caused setbacks at various times in those two years. Despite these unexpected issues, the team managed each challenge and delivered the right outcome.

Interested in participating in the Awards of Excellence? Be sure to enter your projects when entries open in early 2025.

Want to learn more? Join NALP for exclusive training, mentoring, and resources to grow your landscaping business.

Matt Olson

Matt Olson is a freelancer for the National Association of Landscape Professionals.