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Featured Article

Everyday Escape

Exploring the Possibilities for Creating a Personalized Family Retreat

Article by Jill Clark

Photography by Matthew J. Capps

Originally published in Loveland Lifestyle

You might be satisfied with your patch of grass, but are you open to exploring ways to maximize your yard’s full potential? Think (dream!) about how much more that space could be—now, are you ready for some tempting ideas?

If so, Donnie Powell of Finer Lawn & Landscaping is in the business of delivering stunning outdoor transformations that set the stage for making family memories. Over the last 23 years, services have grown to include everything from in-ground pools, fireplaces and firepits to outdoor kitchens, seating areas, landscaping, and even concrete services like sidewalks and patios.

For homeowner Amy J., her overall desire for a more appealing outdoor space for family fun proved the perfect blank canvas for Finer Lawn’s creativity. Donnie and his team are currently showing off their range of skills and talent, turning Amy’s yard into a refreshing outdoor escape, one project at a time (with still more to come soon!). 

The process? Donnie describes it step by step. “We ask the questions, help clients envision the options with 3D renderings of their home with the improvements, and then work on the design until they absolutely love it. Best of all, we can plan to work through a project in phases to fit within a budget, which is what we’re doing with Amy.” 

This outdoor space is still a work in progress, but Amy and her kids are already thoroughly enjoying the parts of the project that are complete. Follow along here to explore the possibilities for your own yard (along with a few inspiring ideas?).

Pergola & Swings
When this customer requested a place for the kids to hang out, Donnie’s crew delivered in spades. Now Amy and her kids can do that, literally—in three swings suspended from a gorgeous custom-built pergola. Strategically positioned with a view of the in-ground pool, the cushy round hanging swings invite the family to nestle in for lounging, reading or alfresco dining. 

In-ground Pool
Hello, summer! The custom 18'x36' heated saltwater pool features a unique curved design. Decorative pavers surround the single-depth pool, and colorful LED lighting keeps it festive and fun well into the night. An impressive waterfall feature is in the plans, but the family is already happy. “We love it. With all the fun the kids have, plus relaxing on a float after a long day at work, it truly is our own little paradise.”

Fountain
A three-tiered fountain blends nicely with the updated landscaping and paver driveway. Beyond visual appeal, it provides another way to enjoy the yard. The attention-grabbing water feature has quickly become the perfect place for special occasion photo ops. Amy’s favorite part of this new addition? Enjoying a coffee on weekend mornings while listening to the fountain and watching the kids play in the yard.

Driveway
No more cracked and settling concrete here! The 200-foot driveway now provides sophisticated curb appeal that welcomes the family home and provides an inviting entry for guests. Their all-paver drive—starting with the apron and including the landing—seamlessly ties into the front walkway. Now it’s a stunning feature that complements the entire home and updated landscaping. 

Landscaping
Magnolias, arborvitaes and maples are just part of the fresh features selected based on Amy’s preferences and needs. With an artful blend of 30–40 varieties of plants, trees and shrubs, there's always something beautiful in bloom. Even in winter, evergreens and plants with berries show off their brilliant color. The gorgeous natural elements are a perfect backdrop to the ongoing improvements of this property’s outdoor spaces.

FinerLawn.com | 513.260.6466

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