This beautiful new-build in Barton Hills by architect Paul Lamb used exquisite materials, including a traditional stone with a stucco finish and a roof of Italian green tile. To complement these choices, we created both a front and back yard that felt private, lush, and distinct in their own ways.

In the large, sloping front-facing yard, a traditional lawn is eschewed for a landscape of soft, ornamental grasses along the street front. A native Mexican olive with long blooming cycles anchors the space alongside a Monterey Oak.

Bridging the front and back spaces are paths and landings of salvaged Chicago brick, while a mermaid rose-covered arbor, inspired by one in the courtyard block of the Judd Foundation, frames a large front enclosure. The entire landscape is a nice study in materials and texture.

The back yard is serene, anchored by heritage live oaks and enclosed by a twelve foot trellis screen fence covered in Star Jasmine, Virginia Creeper, and Passionflower to add privacy and year round interest. A fully mature Tamukeyama Japanese Maple accents the lounge area by the pool, while Live Oaks, River Ferns, Oak Leaf Hydrangea, and globes of English Boxwood make the space feel verdant and lush.