In the heart of Waconia, you’ll find Picture Perfect Landscapes & Designs, a company committed to making your backyard dreams come true. Landscape design is about so much more than a pretty space. While a stylish outdoor living area may be a priority, you might also want a timeless aesthetic, flowers, and plants that add to the experience, and perhaps some functional additions to maximize the space.
A recent project in Excelsior is an excellent example of what Don Washburn and his team do at Picture Perfect Landscapes & Design: transform ordinary to extraordinary. It is now an oasis of luxury and convenience, where this family can simply be no matter the occasion.
The driving force behind the redesign was the desire for more leisurely living and less maintenance. This family wanted an outdoor space that allowed them to unwind and entertain effortlessly. A spot for middle-aged kids to play and gather, the backyard now exudes a sense of calm and serenity. It integrates many of today’s trends – elements that prioritize function, minimize maintenance, and aid in creating a timeless outdoor experience.
Trend #1: Pools
Pools experienced a boom during COVID and continue to be popular, as families seek to create private sanctuaries. This project features a stunning pool and hot tub, seamlessly blending them with the surrounding hardscapes, for hours of endless fun.
Trend #2: More convenience, less maintenance
“One of the most prominent trends I see is the rising popularity of artificial turf,” shares Don. “For this home, we included a putting green in the heart of the backyard, which adds a touch of elegance while providing a low-maintenance yet lush green space for enjoyment.”
This synthetic grass trend has gained traction due to its environmental benefits and the year-round pristine appearance it lends. As summers get hotter and rain less frequent, artificial turf provides the desired aesthetic without any maintenance or attention.
Trend #3: Planning for function
With an eye on the future, this design was laid out with an outdoor kitchen in mind. The family knows they would like one, but plan to wait a couple of years before installing, so Don and his team took the necessary steps to plan accordingly. This meant laying a foundation that currently serves as a paved area but will eventually become the heart of the family's culinary adventures.
The design also has the potential for a screened-in porch underneath the deck of this walk-out home. The deck provides much-needed protection from the elements, making it ideal for all-weather entertainment. The use of automated screens that can easily be raised or lowered adds versatility and comfort to the area.
Trend #4: Splashes of color
As plants are essential elements in any outdoor design, clients continually ask for more color and Don suggests some new varieties of hydrangeas and peonies for that request. The careful selection of plants also ensures that the backyard remains a vibrant and ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
This project is the very essence of upgraded outdoor living, where style, comfort, and functionality converge. From the increased popularity of pools and artificial turf to the elegant use of pavers and the growing interest in outdoor kitchens, sometimes the trends are your best guide to a timeless and elevated living space. With Picture Perfect Landscapes & Design, a backyard becomes an extension of one’s home and therefore, their lifestyle – a space to create cherished memories and savor the art of living.
“One of the most prominent trends I see is the rising popularity of artificial turf,” shares Don.
