City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More

Featured Article

Backyard Bliss

Outdoor Living Designed to Inspire the Whole Family

Article by Angi Burns

Photography by Joseph Rivers, Jay Sonata Photography

Originally published in Allen City Lifestyle

Nestled amidst nature's embrace lies a breathtaking backyard oasis, a sanctuary of peace and natural beauty. The landscape seamlessly blends artistry and serenity, perfect for joyous gatherings while equally offering a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. The centerpiece of this magnificent oasis is a crystal-clear, shimmering pool, its surface reflecting the azure sky above. Surrounded by lush, verdant foliage and vibrant bursts of flowers, the pool exudes a sense of calm and invites you to dip your toes into its refreshing waters. As you step onto the smooth flagstone patio, you are greeted by an array of comfortable lounge chairs and plush, inviting daybeds. These spaces beckon you to unwind, bask in the warm sunlight, and lose yourself in the pages of a captivating book or the melodies of your favorite tunes. The backdrop of the pool is a spacious covered entertaining space perfect for celebrations. Beneath its sheltering canopy, a stylish outdoor kitchen equipped with state-of-the-art appliances awaits, providing the perfect space for culinary adventures and al fresco dining experiences.

A gentle, meandering pathway leads you through a meticulously manicured garden, alive with a symphony of colors and fragrances. Trees sway gracefully in the breeze, casting dappled shadows on the emerald-green lawn. Cascading waterfalls provide a soothing soundtrack as they cascade into vast, stone-lined pond, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's grace. The oasis is adorned with an assortment of flowering plants that frame the space with bursts of pinks, purples, yellows, and whites. 

Nestled in one corner of this idyllic oasis, a cozy fire pit beckons with flickering flames, inviting you to gather around its warmth on cool evenings. The crackling fire dances in harmony with the dulcet sounds of nature, creating an intimate setting for storytelling and cherished conversations under the starlit sky. As you explore every nook and cranny of this backyard sanctuary, you stumble upon a charming pergola perfectly placed along a quaint path to the middle of the pond. A second fire-pit surrounded by luxurious swinging benches allows you to take in a 360 degree view of the backyard paradise.  

In this backyard oasis, nature's wonders blend harmoniously with human creativity, offering a space of respite and rejuvenation. With its enchanting aesthetics, soothing sounds, and captivating scents, this oasis is a sanctuary where time stands still, and one can reconnect with the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.

The backyard play area is a fun and inviting space designed for outdoor activities and adventure. It is a vibrant and engaging environment where children and even adults can enjoy various recreational pursuits. The space features a lush, well-maintained lawn that provides a soft and comfortable surface for running, jumping, and frolicking. Surrounding the lawn are vibrant flowerbeds filled with colorful blossoms, adding a touch of natural beauty to the space. At the center, there is a sturdy and safe playground structure featuring climbing frames, ropes, and ladders, encouraging physical activity and fostering excitement for all ages. The playground also includes a towering fort and adrenaline-pumping zip-line! A trampoline is another exciting feature of the backyard play area which is located in its own artistically painted concrete corner. 

Adjacent to the playground, there is a putting green. This meticulously maintained section of the yard dedicated to the art of putting is constructed using high-quality artificial turf specifically designed for golfing purposes. To add an element of friendly competition, a pickleball court has recently been added.  The family can practice their skills, engage in friendly matches, and experience the joy of the fastest growing sport in America. These elements provide further opportunities for active play, imagination, and skill development. Overall, the backyard play area is a vibrant, safe, and engaging space that offers a variety of activities to keep children entertained and active. It encourages outdoor play, creativity, and social interaction while providing a pleasant and enjoyable environment for both kids and adults alike.

This glorious backyard spans nearly two and a half acres and took almost two years to complete. Garden Design was responsible for the original landscaping, although it has been substantially updated over the years by the homeowners and their landscaper Joe Cummings. Southernwind Pools designed and installed the gorgeous pool. Patterned Concrete by Rey contributed the majority of the concrete work and installed the pickleball court, and Synthetic GreenScapes installed all of the artificial turf.

This suburban backyard oasis is a harmonious blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and serene relaxation. It is a sanctuary where one can escape the demands of everyday life and immerse themselves in a haven of tranquility. From lush green lawns and vibrant flowerbeds to captivating play areas and inviting seating spaces, every element is thoughtfully designed to create an oasis of joy and rejuvenation. Whether engaging in outdoor activities, hosting gatherings with loved ones, or simply unwinding in the embrace of nature, this perfect backyard is a cherished extension of the home, inspiring endless moments of happiness, connection, and contentment.

"We love hearing the sounds of the country even though we’re only a few miles from the city."