Discover the stunning transformation of a backyard into a luxurious paradise. Story by Ann Butenas    |    Photography by Matt Kocourek In the picturesque enclave of The Canyons subdivision in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Scott and Barb Eckley found themselves at the threshold of a dream. Two years ago, they acquired a property rich in promise, nestled amidst the verdant landscapes. Barb, with her penchant for envisioning beauty, saw beyond the thickets of backyard trees that enveloped their newfound haven. Her dreams danced with the notion of a secret garden, a sanctuary of tra ..read more

Luxury emanates from each detail in this Loch Lloyd pool design. Story by Judy Goppert      |      Photography by Matt Kocourek Creating a backyard retreat is a dreamy task, and these homeowners contacted Maverick Pickering, Maverick Landscaping Porch and Patio, to knock it out of the park! Maverick has an eye for beauty and what it takes to envision outdoor spaces that are unique and welcoming. He has seen that more and more people are looking to create a space in their own backyard rather than travel long distances. Maverick noted, “The homeowners had a wooded ..read more

A beautiful garden takes shape over many years and with the expertise of one local master gardener.  Story by Michelle Mastro    |    Photography by Matt Kocourek Beautiful gardens take time to cultivate, especially if you want a nice balance of native blooms, perennials, and evergreen shrubs. Landscape Architect, Bob Lindeblad, has been gardening for years, and he knows a thing or two about creating award winning gardens. Last year, his home’s immense garden was on the International Master Gardener’s Tour held by the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Maste ..read more

Sara Antin isn’t Mother Nature but she’s sure close.  Story by Gloria Gale    |    Photography by Matt Kocourek Landscape designer Sara Antin’s is at her best when her hands are deep in the soil.   For the past 22 years, Sara has demonstrated an affinity for the natural world.  “I quickly realized I loved working outdoors giving the same attention to a plot of ground that I would to interior  spaces. As a result her expressive gardening can be seen in properties throughout he city.   Sitting down with the owner of Outside-Interiors, it’s apparent t ..read more

Elevate your garden’s aesthetics and privacy with the allure of natural walls. Story by Ann Butenas    |    Photos courtesy of Michael Ashley Landscape Architecture In an era where urbanization and modernity often dictate the landscape, the allure of natural elements in our surroundings remains undeniable. As homeowners seek solace and privacy within the confines of their yards, the age-old concept of natural walls, comprised of stone structures, lush trees, and dense bushes, has emerged as a timeless solution. These earthy barriers provide seclusion and security and bestow ..read more

A new outdoor space makes for perfect autumn days and crisp nights. Story by Michelle Mastro    |    Photography by Matt Kocourek What’s the advantage of having a great outdoor space when you have little to no sun protection? This was the conundrum Richard Clayton Barrett and his wife Catherine faced. Their ample backyard had a paved hardtop, perfect for grilling and entertaining, but without adequate shelter from the summer sun, it felt like they and their guests were the ones baking in the heat.  “Our previous outdoor space featured just a pergola,” explains Barrett ..read more

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Prepare to journey through the enchanting tale of a lovely pool house and adjoining pool, meticulously designed with timeless charm. Story by Ann Butenas    |    Photography by Sherpa Media Nestled in the heart of a meticulously landscaped English garden, this charming pool house and surrounding spaces stand as a testament to timeless elegance and tranquility. Inspired by traditional English Tudor architecture, the pool house serves as a resplendent oasis, merging classical design with modern luxury. Open air doorways on either side offer a tranquil invitation, opening up t ..read more

This gorgeous backyard pool and outdoor kitchen space combines both beauty and functionality. Story by Ann Butenas       |       Photography by Matt Kocourek Imagine stepping into a breathtaking sanctuary right in your own backyard — a place where elegance and comfort merge to create a haven of relaxation and entertainment. A stunning backyard pool paired with a meticulously designed outdoor kitchen is the epitome of luxury and style. This captivating combination in Overland Park, Kansas, transforms this outdoor space into a paradise that not only captivates the e ..read more

Fill your outdoor space with an inviting glow Layla Moroccan Floor Lamp, 3 sizes $160+   ~    littlelightbazaar.com Kooper Flickering Flame Solar Floor Lamp $44.99   ~   wayfair.com Glitzhome Metal Mesh Solar Lantern on Stand $55.99   ~   walmart.com Taza Moroccan Solar Lantern $54.99   ~   lights4fun.com Desert Steel Pine Cone Luminary $62.99   ~   gardeners.com Grand Patio Rattan Outdoor Lamp $99.99   ~   amazon.com Exhart LED Bronze Pineapple Lantern $69.99   ~   qvc.com Vintiquewise Rattan Designed Bamboo LE ..read more