With its world-class golf courses, scenic beauty and natural landscapes, and high degree of privacy and exclusivity, the small coastal residential community of Pebble Beach is a magnet for affluent homebuyers.
And said deep-pocketed buyers have more choices to pick from, as a meticulously renovated private estate — sitting on a generous 3.16-acre lot — has recently landed on the market.
Priced at a hefty $39,000,000, the Pebble Beach property is currently the most expensive active listing in the unincorporated community on the Monterey Peninsula. And it has all the attributes to back its sky-high asking price.
Owned by WeatherTech founder and CEO (and automotive accessories tycoon) David MacNeil, the Pebble Beach estate is as impressive as its price point would imply.
Built in 2000 and fully renovated in 2023, the property has nearly 7,500 interior square feet on a 3.16-acre lot and includes seven bedrooms, eight full bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms.
“I was fortunate to purchase this property at the beginning of the pandemic before the prices of properties had skyrocketed,” MacNeil says, before commenting on the property’s extensive renovation spearheaded by Monterey-based Holdren + Lietzke Architecture.
“This home has been modernized and opened up with more windows and access to the outside. It was renovated from top to bottom, both inside and outside with the finest finishes by Monterey-based Holdren + Lietzke Architecture,” MacNeil added.
Inside upgrades include the addition of a chef’s kitchen with custom cabinetry, three dishwashers and Wolf appliances, a 1,000-bottle temperature-controlled wine room, a laundry room with three sets of Miele commercial-grade washers and dryers, a billiards room, custom walnut and stone floors, and six fireplaces.
In addition, the property was updated with a copper roof, a backup battery system, a Lutron lighting system, an Axis security system, and geothermal heating and cooling systems.
The outdoor recreational areas have not been overlooked in the renovation process.
See also: You can buy the house Jennifer Aniston rented while filming ‘Friends’
Extensive landscape design completed in 2023 included adding a 30,000-gallon water collection and storage tank to reclaim water for landscaping use.
There’s also a built-in BBQ, dining and seating areas, hot tub, lower yard with putting green, tournament-ready bocce ball court with two firepits and built-in seating, and a pergola with solar panels.
Why would the WeatherTech founder part ways with his beautifully updated Pebble Beach house?
Talking about his decision to sell, MacNeal shares “Since I predominantly use another property in the vicinity when I spend time on the West Coast, I have made the difficult decision to put this property on the market for the next owners to thoroughly enjoy. The real estate market is lacking properties and I feel fortunate that I can pass this one on to someone else who can share it with their family and friends.
And he picked the best local realtor to find the right buyer.
The property’s real estate agent — Tim Allen of Tim Allen Properties Team, affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty — is no stranger to selling multi-million dollar homes in the area for record amounts.
With nearly four decades of real estate sales experience under his belt, Allen was the #2 individual Coldwell Banker agent for 2022 sales (out of approximately 100,000 agents worldwide) and helped close some of 2023’s biggest real estate sales for the area, including the $29 million sale of the Butterly House in Carmel-by-the-Sea and the $22 million sale of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s only oceanfront home in Carmel.
“The ultra-luxury market on the Peninsula remains strong, and we were fortunate to represent the buyers in two other iconic, historic local sales in 2023, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house and The Butterfly House, the latter of which was a record high for Carmel-by-the-Sea,” Allen says.
And he seems confident that the Pebble Beach house will also sell for top dollar.
“This architectural masterpiece provides a stunning setting for relaxation and magnificent views from its coastal Pebble Beach location. The house and property were completely reimagined and rebuilt to the highest quality, offering something unique and special to the market that had not been previously available,” the real estate agent adds.
Situated near the famous Pebble Beach Resorts, this property offers stunning views of Carmel Bay, Point Lobos, and the Pacific Ocean. Its location provides easy access to renowned golf courses, exclusive clubs, and the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
And just in case potential future owners need an extra reason to move to this idyllic area, we hear Brad Pitt lives nearby, in the historic DL James house (which also commanded a sale price somewhere around the $40 million mark).
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From 9 a.m. ET on December 22, 2023, to 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 15, 2024, fans have the opportunity to enter for a chance to win the 2024 HGTV Dream Home.
HGTV and FoodNetwork fans have the chance to win the 2024 HGTV Dream Home giveaway in Anastasia Island, Florida. The prize package, valued at over $2.2 Million, includes keys to the home, all furnishings, an all-new Mercedes-Benz E Class Sedan, and $100,000. Eligible fans can enter for a chance to win daily at HGTV.com/DreamHome and FoodNetwork.com/HGTVDreamHome, where they will also find full details of the official rules and additional home features.
The three-bedroom, four-bathroom home sits at approximately 3,300 square feet with views of the Matanzas River and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. The home combines classic coastal elegance with modern touches and layers of natural textures drenched in soothing blue and white hues. Upon entry, guests will instantly be taken away by the beautiful views of the waterfront. The front door leads to the great room with an open concept, including a living room with sleek sofas and a fireplace, a dining room with a beach-inspired distressed table, and a bright blue cabinet-filled kitchen. The laundry room and well-organized mudroom sit between the kitchen and an attached two-car garage. The main bedroom looks up to airy skylights and offers a private retreat from the rest of the home with a walk-in closet and main bathroom.
The house is perfect for entertaining, with two guest suites and a loft that provides a cosy space with a wet bar and a mini fridge. The spacious backyard is a dreamy getaway with an outdoor kitchen and high-top bar, two fire features, a pool, and multiple outdoor entertaining spaces, including a screened-in porch with lounge and dining and a pergola with conversation seating.
Architect Michael Stauffer designed the home, and local builder Glenn Layton Homes brought it to life. The interior design was done by Brian Patrick Flynn.
2024 HGTV Dream Home features overview:
3-bed, 4-bath home with 3,300 sq ft
Views of Matanzas River and St. Augustine Lighthouse
Classic coastal elegance meets modern touches
The front door opens to a great room with an open-plan concept
Main bedroom with walk-in closet and main bathroom
2 guest suites and loft with wet bar and mini fridge
Spacious backyard with outdoor kitchen, high-top bar, fire features, pool, and multiple entertaining spaces
The HGTV Dream Home inspires millions of HGTV fans who enter for a chance to win every year. With this year’s home, we are showcasing Anastasia Island, which offers something for everyone from historical sites to year-round outdoor adventures.
Loren Ruch, Head of Content, HGTV
Anastasia Island is located off the northeast Atlantic coast of Florida, just east of St. Augustine, considered the oldest city in America. The 14-mile island is connected to the city of St. Augustine by the Bridge of Lions, giving access to everything from the charming cobblestone streets and powder sand beaches to historical sites and a wide range of activities. With a rich architectural history, Anastasia Island sits atop layers of local coquina stone formed from seashells used to build the Castillo de San Marcos, a national monument and the oldest fort in the United States. Visitors can explore the St. Augustine Lighthouse, Anastasia State Park, Matanzas Inlet, St. Augustine Amphitheatre and many other local attractions. With endless water sports, scenic boat rides, campsites and majestic views, this seaside escape is the perfect dreamy getaway to call home.
Sponsors of the 2024 HGTV Dream Home include Belgard®, Cabinets To Go, Delta Faucet, James Hardie Building Products Inc., LL Flooring, Mercedes-Benz USA, The Sherwin-Williams Company, SimpliSafe Home Security, Sleep Number®, Trex Company LLC, VELUX® No Leak Skylights, Viva®, Wayfair® and KitchenAid, and Maytag by Whirlpool Corporation.
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Mihaela Lica Butler is senior partner at Pamil Visions PR. She is a widely cited authority on public relations issues, with an experience of over 25 years in online PR, marketing, and SEO.She covers startups, online marketing, social media, SEO, and other topics of interest for Realty Biz News.
In a city renowned for its glamor and extravagance, luxury living reaches new heights, enticing potential homebuyers with an array of exquisite features that redefine modern sophistication. If you’re thinking about moving to the city and you’re in the market to buy a luxury home in Los Angeles, you’ll find this city offers a wealth of luxurious properties that seamlessly blend elegance, comfort, and functionality.
But what are the most sought-after luxury home features in the Los Angeles housing market? From views of the iconic skyline to the seamless integration of smart technologies, the City of Angels boasts an array of luxury home features that elevate homes to unparalleled heights. In this Redfin article, we unveil the most coveted home features in Los Angeles, providing an exclusive glimpse into the world of high-end living that awaits.
Top neighborhoods with luxury home features in Los Angeles
While Los Angeles already has a high median sale price, coming in at nearly one million in June, almost $500K higher than the national median, there are several neighborhoods renowned for their luxury homes and exceptional features where homebuyers are willing to pay premium prices.
North of Montana tops the list with a median sale price of nearly five million in June 2023. With tree-lined streets and a serene atmosphere, these residences often feature traditional or Mediterranean-inspired designs, spacious interiors, upscale finishes, and well-manicured yards. The neighborhood offers a refined, upscale living experience in a prestigious enclave.
Venice saw a median sale price of over two million. Homes in Venice exude eclectic charm, ranging from beachside villas to contemporary designs, often featuring modern amenities, open layouts, and outdoor spaces. Artistic flair, diverse architecture, and a vibrant community atmosphere define Venice’s unique residential landscape.
Luxury homes in Ocean Park, epitomize coastal living, and with a median sale price of almost $1.9 million, these residences showcase a fusion of contemporary design and beachside charm. Expansive windows, high-end finishes, and proximity to the ocean create a harmonious blend of upscale comfort and the laid-back vibe of the neighborhood.
Mar Vista, known for its blend of modernity and neighborhood charm, showcases a blend of modern style and casual elegance. These residences often feature open layouts, high-end finishes, and inviting outdoor areas. Mar Vista’s neighborhood charm combined with upscale living creates a unique and appealing residential experience in the heart of Los Angeles. Homes in Mar Vista are also set at premium prices, with a median sale price of almost $1.8 million.
Lastly, with a median sale price of almost $1.6 million, Sunset Park offers upscale living in a laid-back coastal setting. Characterized by a mix of architectural styles, these residences boast modern amenities, stylish interiors, and inviting outdoor spaces.
1. Smart home technology
Luxury homes are typically equipped with smart home technology to enhance convenience, comfort, and security, and luxury homes in Los Angeles are no exception.
Luxury homes will usually have smart home features like Nest control, a dual-zone climate management adjustable via phone or central systems, showcasing a seamless blend of comfort and innovation. The incorporation of Cat 5 Ethernet connectivity ensures high-speed communication, meeting the demands of present-day digital requirements and enabling efficient data exchange, streaming, and connectivity. You’ll also find enhanced security solutions, such as SimpliSafe and Ring capabilities, to offer peace of mind for homeowners. These technologies create a futuristic, efficient, and comfortable living experience that redefines the way you interact with your home.
2. Modern and contemporary style
Modern and contemporary design is popular among luxury homes in Los Angeles as it offers a harmonious blend of form, function, and visual appeal.
Picture a home that seamlessly blends modern and contemporary styles. Its exterior showcases clean lines, with a mix of materials such as glass, metal, and wood creating a dynamic facade. As you step inside, you’re welcomed by an open floor plan, emphasizing spaciousness and fluidity. Neutral color palettes dominate, punctuated by vibrant accents. Large windows invite abundant natural light, and smart technology seamlessly integrates into the design. Throughout the space, you’ll find a mix of textures, from smooth surfaces to tactile fabrics. Sleek lines, recessed lighting, trendy materials like Quartz and LVP, and minimalist design create an ambiance of refined elegance.
3. Floor-to-ceiling windows
Floor-to-ceiling windows are a growing luxury trend, meeting the rising demand for ample natural light. Luxury residences commonly feature expansive glass windows and doors, welcoming ample sunlight, and offering captivating views, harmonizing with the surroundings by embracing nature’s beauty indoors.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this design element transforms living spaces into inviting spaces, fostering a connection with the outdoors. The interplay of sunlight and architectural design blurs indoor-outdoor boundaries, creating an environment that enhances the visual allure of interior spaces.
4. En-suite bathrooms
The desirability of en-suite bathrooms in most or all rooms reflects a premium standard of luxury living. This feature offers unparalleled privacy and convenience, catering to the personal needs and preferences of each occupant. Luxury homeowners value this feature for its capacity to enhance comfort and accommodate guests with an upscale experience akin to a private retreat.
Luxury homes in Los Angeles typically have elaborate glass showers or open areas near soaking tubs that provide a spa-like experience. You’ll also find high-end materials such as marble or granite countertops, exquisite tile work, and premium fixtures. Features such as spacious walk-in showers with multiple shower heads, soaking tubs, heated floors, and smart technology for lighting and temperature control are often included to enhance the experience.
5. Backyard oasis
In the bustling landscape of Los Angeles, homeowners prize the “backyard oasis” as an escape from the city’s energy. With features like artificial grass, a cabana, and a pristine pool and spa, homeowners and their guests can forget their daily stresses and relax. A pergola adds an inviting touch, while a dry sauna and ice bath elevates the wellness experience. With LA’s pleasant year-round climate, a backyard oasis is the perfect place for homeowners to create their own personal sanctuary within the privacy of their backyard.
6. Open floor concept
Open floor concept typically merges the kitchen, living room, and dining area into one expansive area. This layout enhances the sense of openness, encourages natural light to flow freely, and fosters a more social and interactive environment. Open floor plans are known for their versatility, enabling easy movement and facilitating communication between family members and guests. They have become popular due to their modern and spacious feel, allowing for creative interior design and adaptable use of space.
The allure of the open floor concept, complemented by expansive sliding glass cantina doors leading to the backyard, is a top luxury home feature in Los Angeles. This design blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, capitalizing on the city’s mild climate and creating an effortless connection with nature. The doors create an expansive, light-filled ambiance, while the fluid transition enhances the sense of space.
7. Garage conversion
Customizing a garage gives homeowners the opportunity to tailor the space to their desire, whether that’s creating a private gym, a home theater, an art studio, or an ADU. Repurposing the garage allows homeowners to optimize their property’s functionality and aesthetics, often adding unique features like custom cabinetry, high-end finishes, and integrated technology.
If you’re planning to buy a home in LA, a local Redfin Premier agent will provide invaluable insights into the market, including an in-depth understanding of the neighborhoods, pricing trends, and available luxury properties. Their expertise ensures you find a home with the perfect blend of desired amenities. Or, if you plan to list your luxury property, a Redfin agent can guide you in making informed decisions to maximize its appeal and value, tailoring it to attract the most discerning buyers.
Your backyard is an extension of your living space, offering endless opportunities for relaxation, entertainment, and family bonding. With the right home improvement tips, you can transform your backyard into an oasis that suits your lifestyle and enhances the value of your property. Whether you own a home in Houston, TX, or are renting a house in Sacramento, CA, Redfin has some backyard improvement ideas to inspire your next project.
1. Landscaping magic
Begin your backyard transformation with landscaping that complements your home’s architecture and blends with the natural surroundings. Incorporate lush plants, colorful flowers, and well-maintained lawns to create a serene and inviting ambiance. Consider adding pathways, decorative rocks, and seating areas for an enhanced outdoor experience. If your lawn is struggling, San Jose Tree Service recommends that you overseed, fertilize and repair any damaged irrigation components.
2. Create defined spaces
Optimizing your backyard involves a strategic approach, one that involves dividing the outdoor expanse into distinct functional zones, ensuring you maximize every inch of available space. Consider crafting dedicated domains for various activities, such as al fresco dining, serene lounging, vibrant gardening, and playful recreation. Enhance your backyard by incorporating elements like low walls, charming fences, or lush shrubbery.
3. Outdoor kitchen
Enhance your outdoor living space by incorporating a sophisticated outdoor kitchen, creating an environment that takes your culinary adventures to new heights. The addition of a fully equipped grill, spacious countertops, a functional sink, and ample storage space ensures a seamless outdoor cooking and dining experience. Notably, the thoughtful integration of an outdoor kitchen not only offers unparalleled convenience but also brings about a substantial enhancement in the overall value of your home, promising lasting enjoyment and a smart investment for the future.
4. Add a splash of color to your backyard
“Think outside the box when it comes to sprucing up your yard by placing spots of bright color in your living space, and then continuing the color out into your yard,” says Beckie from Hall Landscape Design.
“You can do that by adding things like bright-colored pots with beautiful plantings, bright yard art such as float balls, a glass birdbath, a colorful statue, etc.a bench with a bright pillow, or add a little stone pathway to those areas as well – have fun with your spaces. This will make your yard inviting, and it will naturally draw your eye out so you can enjoy the entire yard.”
5. Fire Pit
A fire pit stands as a captivating addition that not only introduces warmth but also infuses a charming ambiance into the cool evenings, thereby solidifying its position as a highly sought-after backyard element. Whether you opt for the rustic simplicity of a basic fire pit or the more sophisticated allure of a carefully designed built-in masterpiece, this cozy extension creates a welcoming environment for social gatherings with friends and family.
6. Utilize water features
Enhance the tranquility of your backyard with a water feature, such as a fountain, pond, or waterfall. The soothing sound of flowing water creates a serene atmosphere, inviting you to unwind and escape the stresses of everyday life.
7. Install a pergola
Enhance the ambiance of your backyard by incorporating a charming pergola or arbor, which not only offers shade but also introduces some elegance to the outdoor space. The addition of climbing plants like ivy can artfully adorn the structure, turning it into a lush and picturesque focal point.
8. Outdoor lighting
Enhance the functionality and charm of your backyard well into the evening hours by strategically incorporating a thoughtfully designed outdoor lighting scheme. Use a selection of gentle, inviting lights to cast a warm and enchanting glow that effortlessly transforms your outdoor space. In addition to improving the aesthetics of your backyard, outdoor lighting can also be a safety feature.
9. Playful elements for kids
If you have children, consider incorporating playful elements like a swing set, sandbox, or treehouse into your backyard design. These additions provide endless fun and foster creativity for younger family members.
10. Add eco-friendly touches
Enhance the environmental integrity of your backyard design by integrating a range of sustainable features. Embrace the concept of responsible living with components like advanced rainwater harvesting systems, thoughtfully curated native plantings that thrive in your region’s climate, and the utilization of eco-friendly materials in your landscaping projects. By making these eco-conscious choices, you not only contribute positively to the health of the planet but also reap the rewards of diminished long-term maintenance expenses.
11. Comfortable seating and outdoor furniture
Invest in quality outdoor furniture to make your backyard a comfortable and inviting retreat. Choose weather-resistant materials like rattan, teak, or metal to withstand the elements and ensure durability for years to come.
A final note on backyard home improvement projects
With these backyard home improvement tips, you can transform your outdoor space into a captivating oasis of relaxation and entertainment. Whether you opt for lush landscaping, an outdoor kitchen, a cozy fire pit, or a water feature, each enhancement adds value and beauty to your property. Create your dream backyard and enjoy the perfect sanctuary for memorable moments with family and friends.
Lawns are symbols of Los Angeles’ past. In this series, we spotlight yards with alternative, low-water landscaping built for the future.
On a closely packed street in Inglewood, where single-family home after single-family home overlooks a manicured lawn, a spectacular garden filled with California native plants reaches to the sky and spills onto the sidewalk.
In Brian Bautista’s yard, upright showy penstemon, aromatic hummingbird sage, hardy toyon trees, and two types of milkweed — dramatic plants requiring little water — attract birds, butterflies and bees and flourish amid the Bermuda grass lawns.
“I tore out both my front and back yards because they provided little value to the house,” Bautista said of the former patchwork of weeds and grass. “I had to mow it; it never looked good. And I had to keep spending money watering it and maintaining it.”
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Soon after Bautista and his wife, Debora Lee, purchased their first home in 2020 and the pandemic closed down the economy, the 38-year-old visual effects editor embarked on a do-it-yourself gardening overhaul despite having no previous gardening experience.
“All of a sudden, I had more spare time than I knew what to do with since I was no longer going into an office in Hollywood for 60 hours a week to work on movies,” he said. “It was time for an upgrade. I decided to do it myself because we had just bought a house and had no money.”
Living in drought-stricken California, the self-described “millennial with climate change anxiety” decided to remove his lawns and plant a drought-tolerant landscape filled with California native plants.
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To get a handle on how to proceed, he enrolled in the Department of Water and Power’s free hands-on “Lawn Be Gone” workshop conducted by the district’s contractor, the G3 Green Gardens Group.
In a two-day workshop held over two weekends, Bautista learned about garden design, turf removal, soil-building, rainwater capture, plant selection, planting and irrigation, and dry garden maintenance.
“They showed us how to use a sod cutter; we installed irrigation and dug a swale,” he said of the project site. “Everyone planted something.”
Armed with eight hours of instruction and a litany of Waterwise Community Youtube videos, Bautista removed the backyard first, “in case it didn’t work out,” he said with a laugh.
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Working over six months, he removed the hardscape and bricks and ripped out the old metal irrigation pipes, which were leaking. He then proceeded to sheet mulch the lawn using empty cardboard boxes left over from the couple’s move and a truckload of compost and mulch from U.S. Rock Corp. (In sheet mulching, cardboard or newspaper is placed on a close-cropped lawn to block the sun and prevent growth. The cardboard is then topped with compost and mulch; eventually, the “lasagna” layers decompose to create healthy soil without chemicals or pesticides.)
“It’s a magical process,” he said of sheet mulching. “It didn’t take long at all.”
Once the compost and mulch had been laid, Bautista started planting, and the garden began to take shape: Bright lemon-yellow Palmer’s Indian mallow, tall spikes of Pozo Blue sage and De La Mina verbena, pink flowering heuchera (Martha Roderick and Canyon Duet) and three types of dudleya (Giant Chalk dudleya, Green Form, Fingertips).
He also added gutters and underground pipes to move the gutter water to a new swale (a stormwater retention feature is required to receive a turf removal rebate) that now infiltrates rainwater into the groundwater basin and feeds a 30-year-old guava tree.
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“A swale is cheap and affordable and can handle much more water than a rain barrel,” Bautista said. During this year’s record rainfall, Bautista was delighted to see that the swale he installed handled the overflow water “like a champ.”
Regarding landscape design and plant selection, Bautista relied on the California Native Plant Society’s Calscape website and the Waterwise Garden Planner for Southern California as guides. Most plants came from Theodore Payne Nursery in Sun Valley and Artemisia Nursery in El Sereno.
“I wanted a low-water, colorful, smell-good garden that works for Inglewood, and those two websites helped me tremendously,” Bautista said. “The site will tell you the plants that naturally grow in your neighborhood. You can research sun exposure, plant type and water needs.”
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Before he installed the plants, he applied for a turf removal rebate from the city by scanning a sheet of graph paper into his computer and using Photoshop. (The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s turf replacement rebates fluctuate and are currently $2 a square foot for a maximum of 5,000 square feet per year, but some water agencies may offer additional incentives.)
When finished, he received a rebate of $3,309 for removing 1,100 square feet of turf. (He spent $10,993 before the rebate.)
Because applicants can only receive one turf removal rebate per fiscal year, Bautista tackled his front yard a year later. Once again, Bautista started by digging up the first inch of Bermuda grass in the front yard by hand and then sheet mulched the lawn.
This time, the process was quicker. “It took me two months end to end,” Bautista said, including gutters, hardscape, edging and building a trench to the swale in the backyard. “I knew what I was doing this time. I knew the order of operations, and it was much less complicated. My mantra was ‘Demo, dig, go!’” Bautista received $2,995 for removing 765 square feet of turf in the front yard after spending $8,480 on the transformation.
Three years later, Bautista has fallen in love with gardening and California native plants. “I would love to walk down the street and see more gardens like this,” Bautista said as he pointed out a ruby-throated hummingbird nibbling on one of his sage plants. “It’s like a symphony. Hopefully, we can help nature reclaim some space and provide more habitat for our birds, butterflies and bees and get some precious rainwater into the ground instead of down the street and into the storm drains.”
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When he first installed the garden, he watered the plants every day by hand to make sure they were well-hydrated. Down the road, he watered them once a week for a month. Then, it was once a month for a year. A year later, he started using drip irrigation in the front yard. Now that the backyard is 3 years old, he hasn’t watered it since it rained. “I’m still watering the front yard once a month,” he added. “Soon, I’ll stop watering the plants in the spring.”
Not one to sit still, Bautista recently added a laundry-to-landscape greywater system that he says was relatively easy to install. “It was a lot of digging,” Bautista said. “I dug a trench, and it was pretty easy because it didn’t have to be super deep. The mulch absorbs the water, and that water seeps into the ground and feeds the roots. It’s super cool because I am a plant nerd, so it lets me plant high-water plants that grow near a creek. Now when we wash our clothes, we’re watering them.”
While any visitor can appreciate Bautista’s gorgeous landscape, he is determined to help friends and family who want to tear out their lawns and plant drought-tolerant landscapes.
Francis Mekhail, a neighbor, met Bautista when he was redoing his front yard and plans to install a micro-forest in his backyard with Bautista in the fall.
“Brian is endlessly optimistic and enthusiastic about California natives,” Mekhail said in an email. “He is on an incredible mission to help convert at least an acre of land into native California plants. My wife and I didn’t know where to start, so Brian was an invaluable resource and a tremendous help. We assumed Brian would passively make a few plant suggestions. Still, we ended up getting a spreadsheet with general garden info, soil test results, construction schedule, materials (with links), plant design, irrigation design (with purchase list), a blooming schedule, plant list (with links) and to round things out a list of preferred vendors. He also helped us build the irrigation system and was with us on planting day.”
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Like many native plant fanatics concerned with conserving water, Bautista can’t contain his enthusiasm for creating an environment that supports California’s climate.
“This is a climate solution that I can do every day,” Bautista said. “I feel like I’m doing something for tomorrow.”
Here, Brian Bautista shares his plant list.
Front yard
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Palmer’s Indian mallow
Desert globe mallow (Louis Hamilton Pink Variety)
Showy penstemon
Red buckwheat
Hummingbird sage
Davis Gold toyon tree
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Heuchera (Island alumroot and “Wendy” varieties)
California fuchsia
Bush anemone (St. Elizabeth variety)
Narrowleaf milkweed
Woolypod milkweed
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Side yard
Dudleya (Green Form, Fingertips)
Cliff maids
Bush anemone (St. Elizabeth variety)
Woodland strawberry
Heuchera (Island alumroot, Wendy and Santa Ana Cardinal varieties)
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California coffeeberry
Giant chain fern
Backyard
Palmer’s Indian mallow
Desert globe mallow (Apricot variety)
Desert Grape (Roger’s Red and Regular variety)
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Red buckwheat
Pozo Blue sage
Verbena De La Mina
Howard McMinn manzanita
California Sagebrush (Canyon Grey and Regular variety)
Margarita ‘BOP’ penstemon
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Sulphur buckwheat
Davis Gold toyon tree
Evergreen currant
Heuchera (Martha Roderick and Canyon Duet)
Dudleya (Giant Chalk dudleya, Green Form, Fingertips)
Soak up the sun in The Mile High City by finding an apartment with ample outdoor space.
There’s no shortage of reasons to make Denver your home, but once you decide to live there, you’ve got to find the right apartment. From the location to the amenities, the best places to live are subjective to your own wants and needs.
Whether a sparkling pool tops your list or you’re seeking a stunning rooftop, don’t forget to look out for a serene outdoor garden as part of your Denver apartment. This is where you’ll congregate with friends, or even hang out on your own, all without having to leave home.
To make it easier to begin your search, check out these 10 excellent apartments with fantastic courtyards and gardens in Denver.
Source Rent. / TriVista on Speer
Giving you a fully stocked courtyard, TriVista on Speer knows how to pack a lot of amenities into a single space. Here, you’ll find a great dining area with multiple four-top tables, a cool lounge with outdoor carpet to add a homey feel and even a bocce ball court. A mixture of hardscape and oversized planters surround the space, while string lights crisscross above for some added ambiance.
When you’re looking to live in the “coolest” corner of the city center, you want to head to Central Denver. This neighborhood is a combination of downtown and a few suburban areas full of tree-lined streets, parks and lakes. Living here gives you a wide sample of what makes Denver such a great place to call home.
Source: Rent. / Whisper Sky
In a city like Denver, having an on-site garden is ideal. At Whisper Sky, this tranquil space includes a combination of taller trees, low bushes and grassy spots to enjoy. There are two benches so it’s easy to sit and soak in the nice day. For those who want to stay out once the sun goes down, the garden area extends into a nearby outdoor lounge, complete with a fire pit.
Within one of Denver’s many lush suburbs, this Dayton Triangle community sits in a quiet, smaller neighborhood popular with locals. A good restaurant scene and plenty of shopping make this area fun enough that you don’t need to head into Denver proper to have a good time.
Source: Rent. / The Quincy
To fully enjoy any outdoor dining experience at home, head to The Quincy. Here, the courtyard is the best place to grab a meal whether you’re sitting at the long bar-height table, grabbing a seat at a circular four-top or going casual in the patio chairs. Some of the area is covered, making it convenient regardless of weather. The space also has great raised beds of greenery and tall planters to enhance the natural beauty in this urban area.
Another action-filled spot, the Denver Central Business District is a lively place to call home. The financial center of the city, it’s also a cultural hub. The Denver Performing Arts Complex has 10 different venues for plays, dance and music. There are also a variety of museums. When it’s time to stroll through the neighborhood, head to the 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian strip full of restaurants and shops.
Source: Rent. / Mile 44
Combining all the best amenities into one central spot, Mile 44 does its courtyard space right. Pictured above is only one section of the expansive space, but here you’ll find two large gas grills, an umbrella-covered table for eating and a cute lounge space under a pergola, with another under the open sky. This is also where the hot tub is located. There are a few extra chairs for sunbathing and plenty of potted plants and mature trees as well.
To the southeast of the city center, in Hunter’s Run, the big attractions here are the Denver Tech Center and Cherry Creek State Park. You may head to the DTC by day for work, then visit the park and reservoir on the weekends. Cherry Creek State Park has different natural environments to explore as well as an 880-acre reservoir where boating and fishing are always an option.
Source: Rent. / Camber
Being able to grow your own herbs when you rent is a definite bonus. There’s often not enough space, but Camber takes special care of its green thumbed residents. Providing a little plot all your own to plant, the community garden lets you have the freshest ingredients possible for the nights you cook at home.
Close to the airport and plenty of open green spaces, living in Northeast Denver is great for those who travel a lot and those who love the outdoors. While there are plenty of shops and places to eat, it’s the variety of natural resources that really stand out in this neighborhood. Start at Central Park, where you can play sports in the summer and sled in the winter. Then, check out Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge and see bison out in the wild.
Source: Rent. / Veranda Highpointe
The courtyard at Veranda Highpointe has a very special feature, a heated lazy river. Among all the nicely designed spaces, you can hop in an inner tube and slowly float through until your heart’s content.
Parks, parks and more parks surround you when you call Hampden home. For walking and biking, hit the trails at Babi Yar Memorial Park, where the paths create the Star of David. These two parks are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to green space in this laid-back neighborhood. You’ll also find decent shopping and a variety of places to eat.
Source: Rent. / The Den
The layout of the courtyard at The Den really does impress. Two large, rectangular green spaces make up a pair of lawns perfect for entertaining. One swath of grass has two cornhole setups, with bar seating at both ends. Two tall trees in planters separate the lawns, while the other is open for whatever use comes to mind.
Occupying Denver’s southeastern border, the Southmoor Park neighborhood is on the rise. Top restaurants and high-end shopping are nearby. The area also shares green space with other area neighborhoods including Cherry Creek Reservoir. It’s an all-in-one place to call home for sure.
Source: Rent. / Camden RiNo
You’ll find multiple courtyards at Camden RiNo. One sits poolside, where you can hang out and relax after swimming laps or wading in the water. There’s a variety of seating and TVs for taking in an outside movie or show. The other is a sculpture courtyard with pockets of comfy chairs, nice landscaping patches and a giant rhino sculpture to draw the eye.
While the central piece to the city’s Ballpark neighborhood is Coors Field, there’s more to this area than baseball. It’s full of fun and lively places to eat, great rooftop bars and chill clubs. Views are amazing from just about anywhere, and green space is in solid supply. There’s even a skate park nearby for those that prefer a concrete jungle to a mountain forest.
Source: Rent. / Ava RiNo
There’s a lot to see in the courtyard at Ava RiNo. From the tiles on the eat-in bar by the grills to the bright yellow chairs and funky string lights, each piece of furniture and decor was hand selected for this sweet hangout spot. Even the hammocks look a little more funky than usual in black and red. Ceramic planters hang overhead and the rest of the landscaping is thoughtfully done as well.
One of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods, Five Points is a cultural gold mine. It’s home to relaxed cafes, great pubs and a variety of clubs and theaters. You’ll find the Black American West Museum here as well as Mestizo-Curtis Park.
Source: Rent. / Mosaic Apartments
The garden path through the on-site park at Mosaic Apartments is a great place to catch your breath and clear your head. Whether walking to or from your apartment, the close-clipped grass, tall trees and line of planters on the path create a serene atmosphere. It’s just the right amount of greenery to help you find your center.
Quiet and full of tree-lined streets, Goldsmith is another excellent suburban neighborhood in Denver that delivers everything and anything you could want. You’re not far from the DTC and the downtown area for work, green spaces like High Line Canal for outdoor recreation and Tiffany Plaza and University Hills for shopping, dining and entertainment. You can easily plan out an entire day and do a little of everything, Denver has to offer from this central location.
Enjoy an apartment with one of the best gardens in Denver
It’s no secret that Denver is a great place to live. To really enjoy the best the city has to offer, you need the right apartment. Whether it’s a lot of square footage, the perfect location or the proper collection of amenities, don’t forget that courtyards and gardens in Denver add something special. They’ll help transform your Denver apartment from a place to live into a fun and lively home.
Featured Image Source: Rent. / Whisper Sky
Lesly Gregory has over 15 years of marketing experience, ranging from community management to blogging to creating marketing collateral for a variety of industries. A graduate of Boston University, Lesly holds a B.S. in Journalism. She currently lives in Atlanta with her husband, two young children, three cats and assorted fish.
You know a design style is truly a classic when it inspires incredible, new work for decades beyond its origin.
That’s exactly what Los Angeles restaurateur Beau Laughlin and his actress wife, Lindsey Gort, achieved in Palm Springs. The pair built a brand-new, midcentury modern-style masterpiece from the ground up, with the help of prominent Palm Springs architect Sean Lockyer, of Studio AR+D.
After entering the market in early June for $5.1 million, the five-bedroom, five-bath home caught a buyer’s eye and is in contingent sale status.
Desert modern design
The home features the traditional single-story, clean lines, and organic materials prescribed by the original masters of classic desert modernism. But this beauty also boasts the most current technology for a thoroughly modern dwelling.
Laughlin and Gort employed a timeless design technique before building began—they spent hours on the property, observing where the best light fell at different times of day and considering the views from each room.
They situated the structure on the nearly half-acre lot, so the sweeping mountain and desert vistas could be enjoyed at all times.
One example of the view-centric design includes Fleetwood glass, pocket sliders that face the iconic San Jacinto Mountains.
The guest suite, dubbed “The Mountain Room,” faces a small mountain where the famous Palm Springs bighorn sheep can occasionally be seen.
To maximize the landscape views, the building team constructed the home with two wings connected to the main living space by a double-sided, glass breezeway. This striking feature overlooks the pool, surrounding desert, and outdoor entertainment spaces.
The home is built primarily of durable and sustainable materials, including concrete, wood, stone, and steel. Natural stone is particularly prominent in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Built with ecology in mind, the home is kept cool in the summer and warm in the winter by high-density, eco-spray, foam insulation. In addition, solar panels offset approximately 80% of the home’s energy needs. Tankless water heaters also conserve one of the desert’s most precious elements.
Luxe outdoor amenities include a resort-sized pool and spa, a fully outfitted outdoor kitchen, a conversation area surrounding a fire pit, tasteful desert landscaping, wood decking, and a cantilevered pergola.
Ideal for the privacy-minded buyer, the 4,185-square-foot home is situated on a corner lot in the upscale Parc Andreas neighborhood and has just one adjacent neighbor. A six-foot privacy wall surrounds the property, and a double gate opens to the front motor court.
Laughlin designed and served as general contractor on a number of award-winning Los Angeles restaurants, including The Hudson, The Churchill, Clover, and Fifty Seven.
Gort is perhaps best known for playing Samantha Jones in “The Carrie Diaries” but has also had prominent roles in TV series such as “Impastor” and “All Rise.”
There’s so much to look for in an ideal Austin apartment. Luxury amenities like high-end pools and rooftops full of cushy lounge chairs are where a lot of people start, but there’s more to the perfect apartment than those flashy features.
To many, the only essential amenity for their Austin apartment is a proper outdoor grill setup. From poolside parties to rooftop culinary creations, the apartment grills on this list are second to none in Texas’ capital city.
To find the best apartments with grills in Austin, look no further than the hand-selected standouts below.
Source: Rent. / Austin City Lights
Detailed stonework and bright pops of color combine to create an interesting grilling area at Austin City Lights. Two gas grills and a stunning fireplace are both accented by stone. Fenced off by a black gate, this area sets a mood that’s equal parts classic and cool.
Located in scenic Sweetbriar, you’ll find bright colors all around this meticulously maintained community. Yellow umbrellas lead you to the pool plaza where a small waterfall separates two swimming areas.
Source: Rent. / Sonterra
Full of rustic charm and modern convenience, the grilling and outdoor dining space at Sonterra uses classic design to set a classy tone around the propane grills. There are also two four-top tables, which sit under a wooded pergola with thick pillars. The whole space has a European air to it, which means you’ll enjoy your outdoor meal with a little extra charm.
Just beyond the grilling space, the rustic vibes continue into the pool area thanks to a darker palette for the lounge chairs and the dense border of mature trees encircling the space. You’ll feel like you’re in another place as you float in the pool of this Northwest Austin community.
Source: Rent. / Bridge at Southpark Meadows
Indoor-outdoor convenience permeates the grilling station at Bridge at Southpark Meadows. While not totally enclosed, there is a roof above the grills and prep area, making a sort of barbecue pavilion. With a four-top table alongside the space, it’s easy to go from cooking to eating without traveling far.
Form and function combine in most of the common spaces throughout this Southwest Austin community. In the lounge, you’ll find plenty of plush seating with cool chevron designs running up a section of the wood-paneled accent wall. For the game room, it’s a classic pool table with a red felt top and a modern light fixture that make for an interesting aesthetic and a great spot to entertain.
Source: Rent. / Moonlight
At Moonlight, what impresses most is the poolside outdoor cooking area. You’ve got a sink with running water and a mini fridge. You can clean as you grill and keep those beverages ice cold. Adding these extra features turns this space into a mini kitchen that’s ideal for outdoor cooking and entertaining.
Situated in Southeast Austin, outdoor amenities abound at Moonlight. There’s a great playground for the kids, with two slides and monkey bars. The pool area, which sits right next to the grilling space, is huge. There are more than enough lounge chairs as well as an in-pool sunbathing shelf for those who like to keep their feet wet when working on their tan.
Source: Rent. / Camden Amber Oaks
There are two propane grills at Camden Amber Oaks. This pair of grills in Northwest Austin sit under their own pergola, with two separate prep stations and two four-top, umbrella-covered tables.
With four grills spread out around a huge and luxurious pool, you’ve got the makings for a perfect, relaxing kind of day, and it’s all without leaving home.
Source: Rent. / Tides at South Lamar
The grill setup is sweet at Tides at South Lamar. Two gas grills sit within a wooden plank stand, giving it a retro look. The green picnic table to the side enhances this feel as well. What makes this area even better, though, is the extra seating right off the grilling patio. Under a patch of soaring palm trees, there’s a long wooden picnic table, extra benches and Adirondack chairs.
The park feel of this South Lamar community pops up in other spots around the property as well. The outdoor garden, with raised beds for residents to use, lives in the middle of a great lawn. More trees line up around the beds and a gravel path takes you right to them. And, while the pool area takes a more minimalist approach to its decor, there’s plenty more greenery throughout the property to enjoy at every turn.
Source: Rent. / Grace Woods
Set up to feel more like an outdoor cafe than an apartment grilling area, this space at Grace Woods has all the right touches. There’s also no shortage of seating, whether you’re under a green umbrella at a table or eating on a lounge chair while you soak up more Texas sun.
If you’re dining alfresco with a big group of friends, you can walk your plates over to the outdoor lounge and really get cozy. The space in this Parker Lane community has two long couches and two chairs.
Source: Rent. / The Bridge at Northwest Hills
Taking it back a little old school, the grilling stations around The Bridge at Northwest Hills rely on charcoal for cooking, rather than propane. You’ll see these pill-shaped grills throughout the community, always sectioned off with some kind of unique flooring, and a small picnic table, the kind with attached seats. One grill has a gravel floor, with a stone paver pathway, while the other is all about the stonework.
Cooking up something with a lot of flavor is easy in this Northwest Austin apartment grill, but what makes this space even better is its proximity to the Greenbelt. While there are great on-property amenities, like a big pool, spacious deck and state-of-art fitness center.
Source: Rent. / Camden Shadow Brook
The best apartments with grills in Austin take into account the need for prep space. At Camden Shadow Brook, an entirely separate bar counter for getting those burgers and dogs ready for the grill meets this need with ease. It’s also a great surface to serve food from, letting friends make their own plates. With two gas grills right behind the prep space, you won’t have any issue going from cooktop to counter thanks to this smart setup.
Another great place in Southwest Austin to call home, the grills sit right beside the massive pool. It’s so big, it’s actually broken up into two separate spaces, three if you count the hot tub. Each section curves into a unique shape, with two stone islands in the middle.
Source: Rent. / Foxwood
A grill that comes with its own porch? Yes, please. At Foxwood, you get a great hangout space alongside the charcoal grill. Covered by a pergola, this patio slab looks out onto the beautiful green space within the community. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a quiet meal al fresco.
The green space in this Southeast Austin community is a true hidden gem. From your lookout by the grill, you’ll see a long bridge. This crosses over a small creek, with gnarled tree branches hanging gracefully overhead. Two rows of lamp posts keep the area bright even after dark. Overall, this entire space makes it feel like you’re living in a park.
Find the right apartments with grills in Austin
Now that you know what’s out there and are more familiar with the grill setups that really pop, it’s time to find your next apartment in Austin. Lock down a place with a great grill, a good location and all the other amenities on your ‘must have’ list, and you’ll enjoy living in Austin that much more.
Featured Image Source: Rent. / Camden Amber Oaks
Lesly Gregory has over 15 years of marketing experience, ranging from community management to blogging to creating marketing collateral for a variety of industries. A graduate of Boston University, Lesly holds a B.S. in Journalism. She currently lives in Atlanta with her husband, two young children, three cats and assorted fish.
Hiring a landscaper can remove a major headache from both ongoing lawn maintenance and one-time makeover projects in your yard. Depending on your budget and schedule (not to mention your definition of a fun weekend), it may be worth outsourcing some, or all, of your yard projects.
At my house, my husband and I typically outsource mowing and weed whacking because it’s a fairly low-cost service compared to the amount of free time we gain back each week. On the other hand, I love gardening, and we regularly tackle projects that involve growing flowers and vegetables without the help of a professional.
If you’re considering getting professional help with your landscaping, think about the types of projects you plan to undertake, plus the time, tools, and skill level involved. Here’s a breakdown of both ongoing and one-time landscape projects, plus how to determine if professional help is worth the cost.
What’s Ahead:
Average landscaping costs: an overview
Service
Average cost
Lawn mowing
$49 to $218
Bedding plants (selection and installation)
$1,366 to $5,641
Disease and insect control
Less than $100
Tree trimming
$460
Landscape design
$1,954 to $6,971
Deck construction
$7,300
Exterior light installation (10 lights)
$2,000 and $2,500
Drip irrigation system (per acre)
$2,150
Sprinkler system
$2,500
Ongoing services
Having consistent professional help can keep your yard clean and healthy. A well-maintained yard is good for wildlife and also motivates you to get outside more often and enjoy it, so it is a big deal!
Lawn maintenance
Ongoing lawn maintenance involves mowing your grass and weed whacking the edges of any hardscaping, like the sidewalk, driveway, and flower beds. The lawn maintenance company provides their own equipment, as well as any products that may be needed. In the fall, you can also add leaf removal services and have the collected leaves taken off-site by your maintenance crew.
Costs vary depending on the size of your lawn and how intricate any weed whacking may be. According to HomeAdvisor, average prices range between $49 and $218. Depending on your weather, you may opt for weekly or bi-weekly service. The rainier it is in your area, the more frequent mowing may be needed.
Pros of hiring a landscaper:
Seasonal expense in many areas. During cooler-weather months you may not need to pay for lawn maintenance.
Get on a schedule. Avoid tall grass by scheduling recurring services from your maintenance crew.
Avoid paying for and maintaining lawn equipment. Upfront and ongoing maintenance costs for lawn mowers and weed whackers can quickly add up, especially compared to the relatively low cost of professional lawn maintenance.
Cons of hiring a landscaper:
Extra cost added to your monthly budget. Go the DIY path if your budget is already tight or you’re focused on important financial goals like debt payoff.
A fixed schedule may not meet your lawn’s needs. Low rain could mean you’re paying for service even without tall grass. On the flip side, your lawn may be ready for a trim after heavy rain, days before your next mowing is scheduled.
Bedding plants and installation
Spending time in a yard filled with beautiful plants can give you countless hours of joy throughout the year. Plus, you’ll create a haven for all types of important insects, including pollinators.
A professional landscaper can pick out plants that thrive in your area and in specific spots in your yard. You can also get advice on plants that work best for your preferred level of care, whether you want to invest the time to water and weed, pay to outsource those tasks, or focus entirely on low-maintenance plants in your landscape.
The cost of getting a landscaper to choose and install plants ranges from $1,366 and $5,641. If your landscaped beds have become extremely overgrown, this expense may be worth the cost, but if you simply need to pop in some annuals to fill up space, this might be a better DIY project.
Pros of hiring a landscaper:
Create year-round interest. A landscaper’s expertise ensures your flower beds aren’t dull three out of the four seasons of the year.
Choose the right plants based on water and sunlight needs. Avoid killing plants and wasting money by picking the right options for your yard’s conditions.
Pick colors and textures that complement each other. A landscaper creates an overall theme, whereas a DIY approach may create competing colors, heights, and textures.
Cons of hiring a landscaper:
Can be costly. The expertise of a landscaper definitely comes at a price.
You have less control over designs and colors. A DIY approach may be better if you have a very specific aesthetic you want to achieve in your yard.
Disease and insect control
Insects are a natural part of the garden’s ecosystem, but some bugs and diseases can actually harm your plants. There are many ways to mitigate these issues on your own, like promoting healthy soil and encouraging beneficial bugs that prey on the damaging types. For instance, ladybugs eat aphids, an insect that can cause major damage to vegetables, fruit, roses, and other flowers.
But if you need help, a professional landscaper can manage these issues as well. Just be sure to ask about the products they use and the ingredients, especially if you grow edibles in your garden. Non-organic ingredients can be harmful to you, your plants, and beneficial insects. A standard pest treatment typically costs under $100, according to Thumbtack.
Pros of hiring a landscaper:
Fast and easy service. Outsource the work rather than trying to figure out what products and treatment you need.
The expertise of specific disease and pest issues. Make sure you’re treating the right problem, so you don’t waste money on DIY “solutions” that just don’t work.
Cons of hiring a landscaper:
May use harmful ingredients. Ask what products the landscaper uses and check to see if the ingredients align with your needs, especially if you grow an organic garden or have outdoor pets.
Less control over products and processes used. You need to trust the professional you hire.
Tree services
It’s important to regularly care for any trees near your house since they can cause damage to your home as they grow larger. The biggest issues are trees extending over your roofline and dead trees eventually falling. Regular tree maintenance includes pruning your trees to keep them disease-free and trimming away dead branches. Your trees will stay healthy, and you don’t have to worry about branches falling and hurting someone or something on your property.
You can certainly buy the tools needed to care for your trees and take a DIY route, but you also need to learn about how pruning affects each tree and what time of year is best for curbing tree growth. Hiring a landscaper to do the job could very well keep your trees in better shape, not to mention help you avoid the risk of injuring yourself. Just be sure your tree service landscaper is licensed and insured in case they sustain an injury while on the job.
The cost of having tree work done is dependent on how many trees are on your property, their size, and whether or not they need to be felled.
Pros of hiring a landscaper:
Trees safely pruned. Landscapers have the knowledge and experience to keep people safe.
Avoid damage to surrounding property. Falling trees can cause damage to nearby houses, cars, or fences. A professional knows how to cut strategically so the tree lands where it should.
Pick the best season for pruning. Pruning in some seasons spurs new growth, while other seasons are best for managing size.
Utilize the right equipment for hard-to-reach places. Tall trees could require heavy equipment, like a cherry picker or scissor lift.
Cons of hiring a landscaper:
Can be costly for tall trees. Tree trimming is important but will take a pretty big bite out of your budget.
Unlicensed landscapers could be an insurance liability. An uninsured contractor who gets injured on your property could require you to file a claim with your homeowners insurance policy.
One-time landscaping services
In addition to ongoing lawn care, weigh the pros and cons of hiring a landscaper for one-time landscaping projects.
Hardscape design and installation
No matter what size your yard may be, a professional landscaper can help you design hardscaping to maximize its usability. This could be with decking, a stone patio, pergola, or other hardscape features. The design and installation are typically two different services. A professional landscape design for your outdoor space could range from $1,954 to $6,971. For the actual labor and materials, your costs vary greatly depending on the size, scope, and materials.
These projects are typically better left to the professionals instead of a weekend warrior project, unless you have above-average DIY skills. For a homeowner with limited experience, you run the risk of unlevel patio stones or structurally unsound hardscaping if you attempt large-scale projects on your own. Plus, projects like decking typically require city or county permits and approvals.
Pros of hiring a landscaper:
Quality craftsmanship. Avoid the DIY “look” by using a detail-oriented landscaper.
Faster results. Get your project completed all at once, rather than fitting it into your own busy schedule here and there.
Cons of hiring a landscaper:
Expensive costs. Expect to spend several thousand dollars for hardscaping projects.
Potential need to manage multiple professionals. You may have to manage the landscape designer and installer separately.
Landscape lighting
Incorporating lighting into your landscape can add a magical nighttime ambiance to your yard. There are different levels of service depending on the property features you want to highlight in the evening. You could add uplighting towards the home to draw attention to unique architectural features or illuminate walking paths to see where you’re going in the dark. String lights for garden parties are also a popular upgrade when it comes to landscape lighting.
Some of these projects are fairly simple to DIY and if you opt for solar-powered lights, you can especially save money since you won’t have to plan on an electrician having to wire anything. For bigger projects that do require re-wiring, you may want to hire a professional so you don’t hurt yourself. Electricity is not something that you should play around with.
Costs vary on the type of lighting and how far your cables need to go from existing electric lines.
Pros of hiring a landscaper:
Safer than DIY. This is especially true if new electric cables are involved. You don’t want to set yourself up for a fire hazard.
Cons of hiring a landscaper:
Solar projects may be easier. In some cases, DIY projects may be simple if no new electrical cables are needed.
Lawn and garden bed irrigation
If your summers are marked by dry conditions or inconsistent rain, you might consider installing a sprinkler system for your grass and irrigation lines for your garden beds. Irrigation can keep your plants healthy all year long.
If you’ve already invested in lawn seed and garden plants, this could be an important project. Plus, while the average drip irrigation system costs upwards of $2,000 for an entire acre, there are plenty of online DIY tutorials that can help you spend even less. In fact, if you’re willing to do some digging and connect some PVC pipes and soaker hoses, you could knock out this project for around $100 (depending on your garden size).
A new sprinkler system might be pricy, but you can purchase a DIY kit if you feel confident in marking zones and digging trenches throughout your entire yard. Based on the mechanics involved, this would definitely be a project for more seasoned DIYers.
Pros of hiring a landscaper:
A quick process with limited mistakes. A landscaper can quickly get irrigation or sprinklers in place without digging into buried power lines or pipes.
Minimal disruption to grass and other plants. Landscapers have tools to limit the disruption to your lawn, especially compared to you digging trenches by hand with a spade.
Cons of hiring a landscaper:
Small irrigation projects may be simple and inexpensive. You could certainly DIY raised bed irrigation or other areas that aren’t intrusive.
Saving with a DIY approach
When deciding which projects to complete on your own, start by evaluating your safety and skills. Selecting and planting plants takes a little research, that way you can make sure that you are planting them in the right place. That said, it can be a fun experience and much less expensive to tackle by yourself. Consult the staff at your local garden center to get ideas of what plants perform well in your area. If you make mistakes, you can always plant something new.
For projects that have an element of danger involved, like trimming trees or building a deck, consider shelling out the money for the professional. You don’t want to risk building a faulty structure or mistakenly estimating where a tree could fall.
Project
DIY cost
Professional cost
Planting
Cost of plants
$1,366 to $5,641
Lawn maintenance
Average cost of lawn mower: $363 for push mower; $2,450 for rider mower Plus gas and maintenance costs
$49 to $218 per visit
Deck construction
$8 to $10 per square foot
~$25 per square foot
Summary
Some landscaping projects are easy to do by yourself over the course of a few hours, but others take a lot of time, effort, and skill. For some homeowners, it isn’t worth it to take the DIY route.
At a minimum, hire out landscaping projects that may seem dangerous without the right tools or talent. From there, you can gauge how each project cost compares to your budget and timeline to find out if hiring a landscaper is, in fact, worth it for you.
While the views in Nashville may be one reason that attracts you to certain apartments, you really need a full list of ‘must have’ amenities to ensure you find the right place. This can include features like stunning pools, a clubhouse or a high-end fitness center.
What’s also important for that list is a good outdoor space or on-site garden area. Nashville apartments that provide you with a space to hang out with friends, or just take a moment to yourself, are essential. They make it easy to be outside, enjoying life, without having to leave home.
To find some of the best courtyards and gardens in Nashville, look no further. We hand-selected 10 of the best for this article.
Source: Rent / MAA Bellevue
Living in the busy city makes it necessary to have a small garden or green area to retreat to when in need of a break. At MAA Bellevue, you’ve got a tranquil spot that’s perfect. Giving off zen vibes, this tiny garden has a Japanese maple at its center with shapely bushes and bright flowers on the fringes. A curved pergola provides a little shade and completes this garden escape.
Minutes from Warner Park Nature Center, you can keep the chill vibes going by visiting this starting point into the 2,684 acres of Percy Warner and Edwin Warner Parks. This massive space features picnic areas, hiking trails, mountain bike routes, an equestrian center and golf courses. It’s truly a catch-all for outdoor fun.
Source: Rent. / Station 40
Fun, funky and modern furniture twist and turn in the outdoor lounge of the courtyard at Station 40. While a few more traditional pieces of patio furniture also sit in this grassy spot, the closer you get to the see-through fireplace, the cooler things get. Separated by a low brick wall, this gathering space lets you hang out casually while staying close to the action in the rest of the courtyard.
Within arms reach of upscale retail, dining and entertainment, this West Nashville community sits within a peaceful spot of the city, that’s still full of character. You’ll find grand estates and Antebellum architecture among plenty of malls and independent shops. For outdoor recreation, of which there’s plenty, you’ll find more than just rolling hills and trails. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, for example, contains 55 acres of botanical garden in addition to a Georgian mansion.
Source: Rent. / MAA Acklen
This cool courtyard is for gamers. Alongside a funky lounge space, with wall-mounted flat screens, you’ll find all the best outdoor games at MAA Acklen. A long, gravel bocce court awaits the fiercest competitors, while a rectangular patch of lawn stays reserved for corn hole players. Combined, this is an ideal spot for playing and hanging with friends.
It’s easy to enjoy the outdoors when you call any community in West End Park home. That’s thanks to Centennial Park being less than a mile away. Centennial Park is a special gem in the city, hosting the Nashville Shakespeare Festival in the summer as well as offering free concerts in the park. At 132 acres, there’s also a one-mile walking trail, a replica of the Parthenon and a lake.
Source: Rent. / Pine Street Flats
Having a courtyard with a fountain makes it that much better of a find as you apartment hunt in Nashville. At Pine Street Flats, this expansive space has a double-ringed fountain with water shooting up and trickling from the top tier to the bottom. This is quite a statement piece, setting a tranquil tone throughout.
Situated within The Gulch, a dynamic Nashville neighborhood that’s right on the edge of the city’s busy business district, this area is a lot of fun. It’s an eclectic mix of big shops, lively music venues and locally owned businesses, with no shortage of places to eat and entertain.
Source: Rent. / Village Green Hills
There are a variety of outdoor spaces that shine throughout Village Green Hills. From excellent picnic spaces to woodsy spots full of mature trees. Taking a little of all the good pieces from nature, the courtyard lounge gives you the very best of the area. You get a nice view into the park-like portion of the community, along with shapely pine trees that line the space in raised beds. A neutral color palette keeps things earthy even as you grab a seat on one of the oversized couches.
More upscale, Green Hills is one of the most popular areas in town to call home. With a suburban feel, you’ll find great shops and boutiques among restaurants and cafes, the most famous of which is Bluebird Cafe. This particular eatery has attracted songwriters of all levels of fame for years.
Source: Rent. / Abberly Foundry
Another courtyard with a top-notch gaming area, Abberly Foundry puts its corn hole game on a tidy patch of green. Set among a more rustic area, there’s a lot of brick decor here. From the ground to the fire pit to the bar near the grilling area, it’s a rustic mix of brickwork and chic outdoor furniture.
A smaller neighborhood overall, the entirety of Watkins Park only takes up about one square mile. This makes for a cozy little spot, right in the center of Nashville. Living here, you’re not far from Vanderbilt University, either.
Source: Rent. / The Lakes Bellevue
At The Lakes Bellevue, it’s easy to settle into this little lounge that overlooks the extensive garden. A cluster of tightly packed trees hides the outside world so you can truly take a break from it all. Sit in one of the cozy chairs or along the bench connected to the raised planter and just relax.
Although The Lakes Bellevue is about 20 minutes from Nashville’s busy city center, living in this quieter neighborhood doesn’t detract from all the fun. You’re still close to restaurants, entertainment and shopping. On-property, you’ve also got three pools, picnic areas, a lake and a walking trail to keep you busy.
Source: Rent. / Hickory Creek
More than a garden, you’ve got a whole park to enjoy at Hickory Creek. This wide swath of green is expertly maintained with close-clipped grass and shapely shrubbery. The mature trees send limbs of leafy green out in all directions. The bridge that extends into the apartment buildings adds a little character to the space as well.
Only minutes into the city, you’re never far from a Nashville adventure when living here, but you’re also close to plenty of natural beauty. Long Hunter State Parkis closest. Composed of 2,600 acres, this park is home to J. Percy Priest Lake, campsites and more than 20 miles of pristine hiking trails.
Source: Rent. / Olympus Midtown
With so many buildings making up Olympus Midtown, the courtyard stretches and bends into a funky, eye-catching shape. One part houses the outdoor lounge, with a cool tabletop fire pit lit up by blue fire rocks. A little hardscape and some bursts of greenery border the space as well.
A significant center for Nashville’s nightlife, the Green Hills – Midtown neighborhood is full of honky-tonks, clubs, bars and even late-night cafes, making it easy to bounce around all night long. During the day, you’ll find the area full of some of the city’s best historical and cultural landmarks, including the infamous Music Row.
Source: Rent. / One Metrocenter
Stroll through the intimate zen garden at One Metrocenter and allow the space to let you detox from a long day. The pergola-covered bridge is the perfect place to pause and soak in the scenery. The assortment of grasses, trees and bushes helps seal you into this tranquil place without having to wander away from home.
Cool and hip are the two best words to describe the North Nashville area whether you’re shopping or grabbing a craft beer and a slice of pizza. Metrocenter specifically is within walking distance of boutiques and restaurants, while a quick bike ride will get you over to Lower Broadway’s honky-tonks and concert venues.
Find a great garden in Nashville
There’s so much to know about Nashville, it could take a lifetime of living here to discover all its secrets. Best to find a perfect apartment as your home base, which means a Nashville spot that checks all the boxes on your amenity list. Does that include a fab outdoor space? It certainly should.
Featured Image Source: Rent. / Village Green Hills
Lesly Gregory has over 15 years of marketing experience, ranging from community management to blogging to creating marketing collateral for a variety of industries. A graduate of Boston University, Lesly holds a B.S. in Journalism. She currently lives in Atlanta with her husband, two young children, three cats and assorted fish.