Evoke is an award-winning, Boulder-based landscape design studio known for creating lush, modern gardens that seamlessly blend creativity and functionality. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, the studio works hand-in-hand with the region's most celebrated architects, interior designers, builders, suppliers, and, most importantly, their clients to bring exceptional outdoor spaces to life.
A luminous example of Evoke’s work is the Seventh Street project, a unique fusion of artful landscape design and thoughtful architecture. Located in Boulder, Colorado, this family-friendly landscape harmonizes natural beauty with modern elements, creating a perfect environment for the homeowners and their young family to thrive outdoors.
At the helm of Evoke is Ashley Ingraham, principal and owner, who has been designing award-winning gardens across Colorado’s Front Range for more than 14 years. Her work is defined by a unique combination of fine arts and landscape design and a background that fuels her creativity and passion for turning small sparks of inspiration into stunning outdoor environments.
Ashley explains how her artistic sensibilities significantly shaped Evoke’s design approach for the Seventh Street property. “Our approach to garden making is artful in that we always try to utilize a variety of materials such as concrete, oxidized steel, and wood in a bespoke way. Hardscape elements hold space for the abundant and ever-changing plantings,” Ashley says. The front yard of the property was a central focus, where Evoke aimed to create a space that not only offered intimate moments but also showcased the incredible views of the Flatirons.
"We wanted to create a cozy front yard space that beckoned you out of the house," Ashley explains. The thoughtful combination of elements—such as a custom-built steel wall with a cedar bench, an oxidized steel retaining wall, and low-water plantings—transformed the front yard into a functional yet aesthetic retreat. Evoke’s design incorporated a fire pit, an unconventional choice for a front yard but one that was essential for the homeowners' desire to connect with their surroundings.
Another standout feature of Evoke’s Seventh Street project is the sculptural steel fence that surrounds the property. "We needed to fence the front yard for the homeowner’s adorable Frenchie and children but didn’t want it to read as a ‘fence,’ so we used round bar steel, set vertically, as a sculptural element that seemingly disappears into the plantings,” Ashley elaborates. This fence not only provided the necessary security but also enhanced the visual appeal of the garden, blending function and beauty seamlessly and highlighting how the natural and man-made elements intertwine in the design.
Evoke’s design for this project was a deeply collaborative effort, reflecting a belief in the importance of teamwork. “Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. We worked closely with the homeowner, the builder, and the architect to ensure a seamless indoor-outdoor experience,” Ashley emphasizes. The house, which underwent a significant renovation, was reimagined by architectural firm BLDG Collective and executed by Buildwell to create a cohesive flow between the interior and exterior spaces.
“Ashley maximized the property's potential,” says Maurie Raphaely, the homeowner. “The bifold doors in the living room and the front patio that she designed really allow for seamless indoor/outdoor living.” In addition to the role of homeowner, Maurie took on all the interior design aspects as owner of Bespoke Interiors, which also added to the collaborative process. “Ashley was able to capture the mood and design I crafted for the interiors and develop a complementary aesthetic to apply to the landscape,” says Maurie.
Another key aspect of the project was Evoke’s use of xeriscape plantings, which provide vibrant color throughout the year while requiring minimal water. "I love the abundance of low-water, flowering plantings in the front, juxtaposed against a modern patio and walkway,” Ashley says. Evoke’s approach reflects a growing trend where water conservation is a priority, and their expertise in using low-water plantings aligns with their clients' needs and environmental goals.
The importance of 3D modeling brings Evoke’s projects to life. "That really allows us to explore different options for the front yard and layouts, so the homeowner can really see the vision,” Ashley recalls. This process also helped with the custom steel fence installation, as the model allowed the team to communicate effectively with the welder to achieve the unique design.
The Seventh Street project exemplifies Evoke's expertise in designing landscapes that go beyond simply fulfilling basic needs. The project not only serves the practical requirements of the family but also enhances their quality of life, inviting them to make lasting memories in a space that reflects their unique style. Through thoughtful design and close collaboration, Evoke continues to push the boundaries of what outdoor spaces can achieve, transforming them into places of inspiration and everyday enjoyment.
EvokeLifeOutside.com
Project Credits:
Landscape Design: Evoke
Architect: BLDG Collective
General Contractor: Buildwell
Styling: Natalie Warady
Homeowner: Maurie Raphaely, principal + owner at Bespoke Interiors