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Design Tips

Must-Have Features That Elevate Any Yard

MATERIAL SELECTION MATTERS

If you want your backyard to look and feel lavish, material selection is essential. And, the good news is, you don’t need to splurge on the most expensive materials to make your space look like it’s filled with high-end finishes.

Large-Scale Tiles

Cutting down on grout lines looks luxurious without breaking your budget.

Be thoughtful in your choice of tiles. When we have a client with a tight budget, we recommend they choose large-scale tile. Utilizing these slabs will cut down on grout lines and give a space an overall elevated look when compared to some other tile options. And, depending on the finish, it’s a great way to achieve the look of granite without the added cost. 

Consider Colors

Carefully considered color can elevate your entire space.

You can add so much dimension and interest to your outdoor space by carefully considering your use of color. We often use color to create areas of focus and make certain features stand out.  

For example, in this design, we chose to give the spa a sleek, dark finish that pops against the blue of the pool and the rest of the outdoor space. For other clients, we utilize color as a way to give the illusion of space, texture, or dimension.

There are so many ways to play with color and when done right, your palette can amplify your entire backyard design. 
n grout lines and give a space an overall elevated look when compared to some other tile options. And, depending on the finish, it’s a great way to achieve the look of granite without the added cost. 

Shimmer & Shine

Playing with texture makes any finish look high-end.

Another way to incorporate color into your space in a way that will take your yard from boring to 5-star status is by adding metallic, pearlescent, or textured elements. Adding Abalone Shell to the bottom of a spa gives it a subtle shimmer and glow that makes the entire space feel luxurious. And, you can consider adding these little details throughout your backyard to amp up your design.

LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE

Even the most high-end features don’t look luxurious if they’re weathered, damaged, or dirty. One way to ensure your outdoor areas look as elevated as possible, is to keep long-term maintenance in mind during the design phase.

Turf Alternative

Instead of high-maintenance grass, turf your yard.

Real grass might be your dream, but the upkeep will add to your overall budget and can end up costing much more than choosing a low-maintenance material like turf. Plus, turf can be used in tight spaces to give the illusion that you have a lush yard, when it wouldn’t otherwise be possible in your small yard.

Durability is Key

Choose long-lasting materials that will look incredible for years to come.

Additionally, it’s important to select hardy materials that will wear well with time, especially if you live somewhere with a colder winter climate and 4 seasons. We are careful in selecting materials we know will work well for our clients, based on where they’re located, and the way that they will be utilizing their backyard on a daily basis.

And, nothing is worse than an all-white palette that’s stained and dirty only a few years after installation—or a patio that’s in desperate need of refinishing when you want your yard to look luxe. Choosing low-to-no-maintenance materials will help prevent aging and weather from changing the look of your exterior design.

CAMOUFLAGED MECHANICS

One way to instantly elevate your outdoor space is by hiding all the unsightly things you don’t want in your yard. This can include mechanics, drainage areas, and all the things required for your yard to function—but that aren’t aesthetic to look at.

In this space, we hid a lot of the ‘inner workings’ under turf, but there are endless ways to hide or disguise these features in your yard.

Integrated Heating

Hidden infrared heating? Yes, please.

Another example of this is the infrared heating we integrated right into the ceiling of the covered seating area. It’s a sleek, almost undetectable way to make sure you and your guests stay cozy, even on those crisp evenings, without having to add a large heater to your space.

Scale & Positioning

Furniture placement and scale is something to pay attention to.

Consider your space and the way that you will actually be using it. You can instantly tell the difference between a well-planned design and something without much consideration when you start to host and spend time outside.

For example, we see lots of designs that have seating several feet away from a fire feature. This might look nice, but when it comes to actually sitting around a fire, you’re not going to feel much warmth when you’re that far away.

And, in this design, we made sure to figure out exactly how much space we’d need between the swing and the nearby water wall—because no one wants to get soaked when they’re swinging in this space.

MATERIAL SELECTION MATTERS

If you want your backyard to look and feel lavish, material selection is essential. And, the good news is, you don’t need to splurge on the most expensive materials to make your space look like it’s filled with high-end finishes.

Large-Scale Tiles

Be thoughtful in your choice of tiles. When we have a client with a tight budget, we recommend they choose large-scale tile. Utilizing these slabs will cut down on grout lines and give a space an overall elevated look when compared to some other tile options. And, depending on the finish, it’s a great way to achieve the look of granite without the added cost.

Colors

You can add so much dimension and interest to your outdoor space by carefully considering your use of color. We often use color to create areas of focus and make certain features stand out.

For example, in this design, we chose to give the spa a sleek, dark finish that pops against the blue of the pool and the rest of the outdoor space. For other clients, we utilize color as a way to give the illusion of space, texture, or dimension. There are so many ways to play with color and when done right, your palette can amplify your entire backyard design.

Shimmer & Shine

Another way to incorporate color into your space in a way that will take your yard from boring to 5-star status is by adding metallic, pearlescent, or textured elements. Adding Abalone Shell to the bottom of a spa gives it a subtle shimmer and glow that makes the entire space feel luxurious. And, you can consider adding these little details throughout your backyard to amp up your design.

LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE

Even the most high-end features don’t look luxurious if they’re weathered, damaged, or dirty. One way to ensure your outdoor areas look as elevated as possible, is to keep long-term maintenance in mind during the design phase.

TURF ALTERNATIVE

Real grass might be your dream, but the upkeep will add to your overall budget and can end up costing much more than choosing a low-maintenance material like turf. Plus, turf can be used in tight spaces to give the illusion that you have a lush yard, when it wouldn’t otherwise be possible in your small yard.

DURABILITY IS KEY

Additionally, it’s important to select hardy materials that will wear well with time, especially if you live somewhere with a colder winter climate and 4 seasons. We are careful in selecting materials we know will work well for our clients, based on where they’re located, and the way that they will be utilizing their backyard on a daily basis.

And, nothing is worse than an all-white palette that’s stained and dirty only a few years after installation—or a patio that’s in desperate need of refinishing when you want your yard to look luxe. Choosing low-to-no-maintenance materials will help prevent aging and weather from changing the look of your exterior design.

CAMOUFLAGED MECHANICS

One way to instantly elevate your outdoor space is by hiding all the unsightly things you don’t want in your yard. This can include mechanics, drainage areas, and all the things required for your yard to function—but that aren’t aesthetic to look at.

In this space, we hid a lot of the ‘inner workings’ under turf, but there are endless ways to hide or disguise these features in your yard.

Integrated Heating

Another example of this is the infrared heating we integrated right into the ceiling of the covered seating area. It’s a sleek, almost undetectable way to make sure you and your guests stay cozy, even on those crisp evenings, without having to add a large heater to your space.

Scale & Positioning

Consider your space and the way that you will actually be using it. You can instantly tell the difference between a well-planned design and something without much consideration when you start to host and spend time outside.

For example, we see lots of designs that have seating several feet away from a fire feature. This might look nice, but when it comes to actually sitting around a fire, you’re not going to feel much warmth when you’re that far away.

And, in this design, we made sure to figure out exactly how much space we’d need between the swing and the nearby water wall—because no one wants to get soaked when they’re swinging in this space.

With these enviable upgrades, you can elevate your outdoor space into a private resort you’ll never want to leave. Ready to talk about transforming your yard? Click here to schedule a free consultation call.

Get on the list.

Sign up for the Foxterra Design newsletter for weekly design inspiration, the latest exterior trends, and resources to help you create a yard you never want to leave.

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Categories
Design Tips

New Year, New Yard

Imagine it’s August… 

→  The steak is already marinating.  

→  The veggies are ready for skewers.  

→  You’re having all your family and friends over for a BBQ. 

→  And you look out at your backyard and all you can think is ‘wow’.  

→  The pool floaties are blown up. 

→  The drinks are chilled. 

→  And, you know that as soon as the sun sets, you’ll be lounging around your firepit and enjoying your evening around the soft glow from the fire

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROJECT

Wishing For a New Yard in the New Year?

If you want your summer to be filled with pool parties that people will talk about for months, endless BBQs, and a vacation every time you step outside…now is the time to talk to our team about designing your exterior. 

It might be cold outside right now, but warmer weather isn’t all that far away. Plus, planning, design, and construction all take time. 


So, if you’ve been wishing for an updated outdoor space, 
click here to book a free consultation call with our Design Director to talk about getting your yard summer-ready with a Foxterra design.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Still Have Questions?

How long does it take to design and build a yard?   
The timeline for a project can vary based on many different factors, but you can expect the design portion of the process to take about 3 months—from our initial Discovery Call to the Design Finalization. 

If I want my yard done by summer, when do I need to sign?   
If you’re hoping to have your yard done in time to enjoy this summer, make sure you book at least 6-8 months in advance.  

Where can I find inspiration for my yard transformation? 
If you need some inspiration for your exterior, scroll through our Instagram feed, check out Foxterra Design on TikTok, watch some of our YouTube videos, look through the “Featured Resorts” on our website, or find us on Pinterest—where we have a ton of inspiration boards to help! 

What does the process look like?   
While you can expect a custom design that maximizes the potential in your yard, the process looks the same for all of our clients. Here is our six-step process: 

#1 Discovery Call to discuss everything you want in your new space 
#2 Proposal & Deposit to secure your spot so we can start designing 
#3 Base Model to map out your current space in 3D 
#4 Design Magic where we bring all our ideas together to maximize the potential in your yard 
#5 Design Reveal we take you on a 3D virtual tour of your new private resort 
#6 Design Finalization we make any tweaks and get your design ready to handoff to your contractor 

How do I know if I can find a contractor to actually build the design you create?  
We’re not just designers, we also have 15+ years of build experience as licensed contractors. We design every yard with construction in mind and have spent the last 15 years testing and building out our own designs to ensure that everything we design is possible. 

And, we have a network of contractor partners to recommend for your project, depending on where you’re located. If you live in an area outside our network of trusted builders, we will work with you to help you find a contractor in your area. We can advise you on what to look for and offer guidance as you choose the right team to bring your yard to life.  

Click the “Construction” tab on our website to learn more about Foxterra’s Certified Installer. 

I have a contractor / construction crew I want to work on my project. Do I have to work with one of Foxterra’s certified installers? 
If you have a contractor and/or team you know and trust, you can absolutely choose them to build your yard instead of selecting one of our recommended partners. We make the handoff process seamless and make sure your contractor has everything they need to build your design. 

I don’t live in California, can I still get a design for my home?  
Yes! We design worldwide. Whether you’re in Abu Dhabi or Thailand, California or New York, Texas or Colorado, if you have the ability to video chat, we can design your exterior space.  

My design style is _______. Do you create yards with this aesthetic?    
Yes! No matter what your personal style is or what style your home is, we design all different types of exteriors based on the vision you have for your exterior space.   

What is included in my design package?  
✔︎ Recreation of your existing home’s exterior and property in 3D. 

✔︎ Conceptual drawings in 3D of your design and proposed space. 

✔︎ Revised designs based on your feedback from the original plan. 
✔︎ Contractor-ready design documents detailing all materials, dimensions, finishes, sizes, etc. 
✔︎ Furniture callouts/recommendations. 

Click here to read through the rest of our FAQ and to get in touch with our team. 

Ready to get started on your yard? Get in touch with our team. We’re here to help bring your backyard to life so that you can get the backyard you’ve always wanted in 2023. Click here to schedule a free consultation call.

Get on the list.

Sign up for the Foxterra Design newsletter for weekly design inspiration, the latest exterior trends, and resources to help you create a yard you never want to leave.

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Design trends

Year In Review—A Look Back At 2022

DESIGNING WORLDWIDE

In 2022 we took on even more clients around the globe—like in Thailand and in new areas of the country like Texas, Florida, and more.

THAILAND

We recently designed a concept for a hotel in Thailand—one of our biggest projects to date.

TEXAS

In 2022, we traveled to Texas for this build and it did not disappoint.

FLORIDA

This project is mid-construction, but it’s going to be absolutely incredible when it’s complete.

 

NEW & EXCITING SPACES

From designing small spaces to sprawling poolside resorts, we got to take on some incredible design challenges for some interesting spaces this year. Here are just some of the projects that stretched our creativity in 2022. 

ROOFTOP RENOVATION

For this rooftop project, we had incredibly limited space, but still managed to include everything you need for a private resort experience.  

LAKESIDE DESIGN

This property has an incredible lake view, but the challenge was figuring out how to create a backyard with all the features our clients wanted—that doesn’t block or detract from the view.

 

EXPLORING STYLES

In 2022, we worked with clients whose design styles couldn’t have been more different. We got to explore sleek, modern, and bold concepts, as well as understated, organic ideas, and everything in between. 

ORGANIC MODERN

We incorporated organic shapes and textured materials into this design to bring this backyard spa to life. 

 

UNDERSTATED MINIMALISM

We let the materials and scale of this space speak for itself and kept our design minimal, but bold in this yard.

 

NEW MATERIALS AND INCREDIBLE FEATURES

This year, we designed some of the biggest and most exciting features we’ve ever worked on before—like a breathtaking glass spa, the biggest pool we’ve ever seen in a backyard, putting greens, A Tulum-inspired backyard resort and more. 

GLASS SPA

This glass spa is one of our favorite features from 2022.

UNIQUE CHAIRS

You’d never guess these pipes are going to be chairs when they’re finished! 

 

PROJECTS WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE COMPLETED

Sometimes, it’s hard to wait for construction to be complete when we’re really excited about a design and we have so many exterior designs that we cannot wait to see come to life in 2023.  

AIRBNB

This backyard is going to be the ultimate getaway when it’s complete.

PRIVATE RESORT

This backyard resort is going to make weekend relaxing a breeze when construction is done.

AND SOME THAT FINISHED CONSTRUCTION

But, our patience has paid off and we were able to tour so many of our finished yards in 2022.

BACKYARD OASIS

This backyard has it all—and is perfect to spend time in day or night.

 

TEXAS GETAWAY

Now that this backyard is complete, it’s the envy of the neighborhood!

DESIGNING WORLDWIDE

In 2022 we took on even more clients around the globe—like in Thailand and in new areas of the country like Texas, Florida, and more. 

THAILAND

We recently designed a concept for a hotel in Thailand—one of our biggest projects to date. 

TEXAS

In 2022, we traveled to Texas for this build and it did not disappoint.  

FLORIDA

This project is mid-construction, but it’s going to be absolutely incredible when it’s complete.

NEW & EXCITING SPACES

From designing small spaces to sprawling poolside resorts, we got to take on some incredible design challenges for some interesting spaces this year. Here are just some of the projects that stretched our creativity in 2022.

ROOFTOP RENO

For this rooftop project, we had incredibly limited space, but still managed to include everything you need for a private resort experience.

LAKESIDE DESIGN

This property has an incredible lake view, but the challenge was figuring out how to create a backyard with all the features our clients wanted—that doesn’t block or detract from the view.

EXPLORING STYLES

In 2022, we worked with clients whose design styles couldn’t have been more different. We got to explore sleek, modern, and bold concepts, as well as understated, organic ideas, and everything in between. 

ORGANIC MODERN

We incorporated organic shapes and textured materials into this design to bring this backyard spa to life. 

UNDERSTATED MINIMALISM

We let the materials and scale of this space speak for itself and kept our design minimal, but bold in this yard. 

NEW MATERIALS & INCREDIBLE FEATURES

This year, we designed some of the biggest and most exciting features we’ve ever worked on before—like a breathtaking glass spa, the biggest pool we’ve ever seen in a backyard, putting greens, A Tulum-inspired backyard resort and more. 

GLASS SPA

This glass spa is one of our favorite features from 2022.

UNIQUE CHAIRS

You’d never guess these pipes are going to be chairs when they’re finished! 

PROJECTS IN PROGRESS

Sometimes, it’s hard to wait for construction to be complete when we’re really excited about a design and we have so many exterior designs that we cannot wait to see come to life in 2023.  

AIRBNB

This backyard is going to be the ultimate getaway when it’s complete. 

PRIVATE RESORT

This backyard resort is going to make weekend relaxing a breeze when construction is done.

COMPLETED CONSTRUCTION

But, our patience has paid off and we were able to tour so many incredible finished yard in 2022.

BACKYARD OASIS

This backyard has it all—and is perfect to spend time in day or night. 

TEXAS GETAWAY

Now that this backyard is complete, it’s the envy of the neighborhood! 

Ready to get started on your yard? Get in touch with our team! We’re here to help bring your backyard to life so that you don’t spend another year wishing you had a private resort in your own yard. Click here to schedule a free consultation call.

Get on the list.

Sign up for the Foxterra Design newsletter for weekly design inspiration, the latest exterior trends, and resources to help you create a yard you never want to leave.

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Design Inspo

Design Essentials To Bring Your Dream Marrakech-Inspired Yard To Life

Marrakech is brimming with lush colors, intricate architecture, and bustling excitement, so it’s no wonder the city has long been a sought-after travel destination. Often called “the red city,” Marrakech is filled with clay-covered buildings that line the streets and meet at the city’s center— a vibrant marketplace where you can find any number of items from spices and local cuisine to tapestries, textiles, and more.  

The city is nestled in a valley surrounded by a palm grove and the regal High Atlas Mountains, with the desert nearby. It’s a unique intersection of history and natural beauty that designers and travelers alike love. Here’s what your exterior design needs to transport you to your own private Moroccan-inspired resort.  

VIBRANT COLORS

Infuse your space with color everywhere or select some accents to add color to your yard.

INTRICATE TILEWORK

Nothing says ‘Morocco’ quite like an intricate mosaic and patterned tile.

FOUNTAIN FEATURE

We added dimension & depth to the space with multiple levels.Elaborate fountains sit at the center of many Moroccan courtyards. Incorporate one into your space. 

 

ELABORATE ENTRYWAY

Set the tone for your space with an arched, grand entryway.

 

ORNATE SHAPES

Think beyond boxy or geometric and include unexpected shapes, instead. 

 

MIXED MATERIALS

Blend smooth stucco with rustic wood, and shimmering tiles to achieve a charming Marrakech style.

TEXTURES & TEXTILES

Layer tapestries, pillows, poufs and other textured pieces into your space.  

 

 

LANTERN LIGHTING

Hang lanterns around your yard and moody lighting to call to mind Marrakech in your yard. 

 

COURTYARDS

Create the illusion of a courtyard by adding a covered patio to your yard and adding pillars to define your space. 

 

 

LAYERED LOOK

Create depth and layers by adding levels to your space. Think sunken spas and raised patios.

 

VIBRANT COLORS

Infuse your space with color everywhere or select some accents to add color to your yard. 

INTRICATE TILEWORK

Nothing says ‘Morocco’ quite like an intricate mosaic and patterned tile.

FOUNTAIN FEATURE

Elaborate fountains sit at the center of many Moroccan courtyards. Incorporate one into your space.

ELABORATE ENTRYWAY

Set the tone for your space with an arched, grand entryway. 

ORNATE SHAPES

Think beyond boxy or geometric and select accents with unexpected shapes, instead.

MIXED MATERIALS

Blend smooth stucco with rustic wood, and shimmering tiles to achieve a charming Marrakech style.

TEXTURES & TEXTILES

Layer tapestries, pillows, poufs and other textured pieces into your space.

LANTERN LIGHTING

Hang lanterns around your yard and moody lighting to call to mind Marrakech in your yard.

COURTYARD

Create the illusion of a courtyard by adding a covered patio to your yard and adding pillars to define your space. 

LAYERED LOOK

Create depth and layers by adding levels to your space. Think sunken spas and raised patios. 

Ready to talk about your project? Get in touch with our team to set up a free consultation call. We’re here to help you escape to Marrakech every time you step outside into your yard. Click here to schedule a free consultation call.

Get on the list.

Sign up for the Foxterra Design newsletter for weekly design inspiration, the latest exterior trends, and resources to help you create a yard you never want to leave.

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Design Inspo

3 Before & After Backyard Transformations That Will Motivate You To Create An At-Home Resort Of Your Own

Whether it’s a rooftop spa, or a sprawling multi-acre space with a massive pool, we’ve crafted our process to make sure our designs maximize the potential of any space, and these are some projects that showcase the power of design and the transformations that are possible. Keep reading to get inspired to build your own at-home resort.  

The Skyline Resort is a modern meets classic design that takes advantage of every bit of space in this backyard. The sprawling design wraps around the house and despite the proximity to neighbors and a busy street below, manages to feel like a private oasis for our clients. 

POOL

This sprawling pool wraps around the side of the space to maximize the yard.

COVERED PATIO

This massive outdoor dining area has it all and is the perfect place for a BBQ.

SPA

The spa is made even cozier thanks to the fire pits on either side of it.

We transformed The Obsidian into the ultimate backyard oasis—complete with a minimal, elegant design that’s multi-dimensional and anything but boring. It brings the ‘wow’ factor to this space and includes everything a backyard needs to be a true escape.  

COVERED PATIO

This cozy covered patio has a massive lounge and fireplace to enjoy during the day or at night.  

LEVELS

We elevated the design by adding layers and levels to the yard.

OUTDOOR SHOWER

We added an outdoor shower with plenty of privacy.

This rooftop with an ocean view might be small, but we managed to pack a ton of incredible features into the space. The customized spa sits as the focal point of the rooftop and is accented by a cozy seating area, colorful lighting and a twinkling light-up tree that adds a little magic element to the space.

FIREPIT

This cozy corner is the perfect place to enjoy a fire.

SPA

For this spa, we inset a custom light that adds interest and takes the design to the next level. 

LIGHTING

In addition to the lighting accents around the yard, we included this twinkling tree that’s part natural part magical. 

The Skyline Resort is a modern meets classic design that takes advantage of every bit of space in this backyard. The sprawling design wraps around the house and despite the proximity to neighbors and a busy street below, manages to feel like a private oasis for our clients.

POOL

This sprawling pool wraps around the side of the space to maximize the yard. 

COVERED PATIO

This massive outdoor dining area has it all and is the perfect place for a BBQ. 

SPA

The spa is made even cozier thanks to the fire pits on either side of it. 

We transformed The Obsidian into the ultimate backyard oasis—complete with a minimal, elegant design that’s multi-dimensional and anything but boring. It brings the ‘wow’ factor to this space and includes everything a backyard needs to be a true escape.

COVERED PATIO

This cozy covered patio has a massive lounge and fireplace to enjoy during the day or at night.

LEVELS

We elevated the design by adding layers and levels to the yard.

OUTDOOR SHOWER

We added an outdoor shower with plenty of privacy. 

This rooftop with an ocean view might be small, but we managed to pack a ton of incredible features into the space. The customized spa sits as the focal point of the rooftop and is accented by a cozy seating area, colorful lighting and a twinkling light-up tree that adds a little magic element to the space.

FIREPIT

This cozy corner is the perfect place to enjoy a fire.

SPA

For this spa, we inset a custom light that adds interest and takes the design to the next level.

LIGHTING

In addition to the lighting accents around the yard, we included this twinkling tree that’s part natural part magical. 

Ready for a transformation of your own?  Get in touch with our team! We’re here to help turn your backyard ‘before’ into a space you never want to leave ‘after’. Click here to schedule a free consultation call. 

Get on the list.

Sign up for the Foxterra Design newsletter for weekly design inspiration, the latest exterior trends, and resources to help you create a yard you never want to leave.

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Design Inspo

Ever Wonder What A $500k Design Looks Like?

ENTRANCE

We upgraded this home’s entrance with landscaping and elements that complement its existing exterior.

TRANSFORMATION

We completely transformed this yard and added plenty of areas for dining, lounging, and swimming.

MULTI-LEVELS

We added dimension & depth to the space with multiple levels.

 

 

POOL & SPA

We installed a massive glass-sided pool and sunken spa.

 

 

COVERED PATIO

We designed this covered patio so our client can barbeque and dine outside.

 

LOUNGE AREAS

There are multiple places to lounge and take full advantage of this backyard, including here by the fire.

SWIM-UP BAR

Is there anything better than enjoying a cocktail, poolside?

 

 

 

OUTDOOR DINING

We created space for outdoor dining—no matter what type of weather there is.

 

FIREPLACE

We made sure to include a cozy area to curl up in front of a fire.

 

 

 

LUSH LAWN

We added turf to accent the neutral tones of the tile.

 

 

LIGHTING

This yard looks as incredible at night as it does during the day.

 

 

 

ENTRANCE

We upgraded this home’s entrance with landscaping and elements that complement its existing exterior.

TRANSFORMATION

We completely transformed this yard and added plenty of areas for dining, lounging, and swimming.

MULTI-LEVELS

We added dimension & depth to the space with multiple levels.

POOL & SPA

We installed a massive glass-sided pool and sunken spa.

COVERED PATIO

We designed this covered patio so our client can barbeque and dine outside.

LOUNGE AREAS

There are multiple places to lounge and take full advantage of this backyard, including here by the fire.

SWIM-UP BAR

Is there anything better than enjoying a cocktail, poolside?

OUTDOOR DINING

We created space for outdoor dining—no matter what type of weather there is.

FIREPLACE

We made sure to include a cozy area to curl up in front of a fire.

LUSH LAWN

We added turf to accent the neutral tones of the tile.

LIGHTING

This yard looks as incredible at night as it does during the day.

Ready to get started on your yard? Get in touch with our team! We’re here to help bring your backyard to life so that you can be the talk of the Holidays and the best yard in the neighborhood. Click here to schedule a free consultation call.

Get on the list.

Sign up for the Foxterra Design newsletter for weekly design inspiration, the latest exterior trends, and resources to help you create a yard you never want to leave.

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Design Inspo

The Ultimate Outdoor Dining Area Design

DINING IN STYLE

A dining space is key for hosting guests over the holiday season and one of our favorite dining areas we’ve ever designed was for a client in Colorado. We were able to utilize the existing trees and landscape that made this yard incredible to create an area where you can eat under a natural canopy of greens. It truly embodies the idea of connecting with nature, but still being able to enjoy all the amenities of a high-quality dining experience.

Plus, we managed to fit not one, but two, massive dining tables in the yard. The dueling tables are the perfect place to host Thanksgiving dinner, holiday brunch, or a New Year’s celebration. They seat so many people, our client never needs to worry about having enough seating for all their guests. We also made sure to incorporate cafe tables, bench seating, and additional areas to enjoy a meal into the space, so no matter what kind of gathering our client wants to host, they have ample dining areas to utilize with their loved ones.

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR SPACE:
Think about how you can utilize the natural features in your own yard to make an outdoor dining experience that’s unique to your space. And, keep variety in mind by incorporating multiple seating areas or multi-purpose dining spaces where you can host different types of gatherings.

INCORPORATING COZY ZONES

When hosting—especially if it’s over the holidays—keeping guests comfortable and cozy is important. In this yard, where winter in Colorado brings cold temperatures and snow, we made sure to give our client and all of their guests plenty of areas where they can stay warm. We added an oversized fireplace with big lounge chairs that are just begging for you to curl up and warm up in.

And, because this client lives in Colorado and we knew that guests would need ample areas to get warm, we added another seating area with a fire pit and plush couches and lounges to enjoy. It’s nestled into the center of the yard and is a great place to entertain and keep cozy.

We also incorporated a massive spa into the space because there’s nothing quite like soaking in a heated pool to keep you warm, even when it’s the middle of winter. There’s space for our client to host plenty of people in this spa and it warms up the entire yard.

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR SPACE:
Consider how to add cozy elements to your space when you’re hosting guests this holiday season, and remember, details make all the difference. Whether you decide to build a fire pit, add a spa, or simply add some cozy accessories to your existing space, there are countless ways to warm up your yard.

JUST THE RIGHT LIGHTING

In this yard, we were able to take the existing trees and make them a focal point in the design—both by providing natural shade to the dining area and by hanging lanterns throughout the branches. It’s an almost magical feeling when you’re eating under twinkling lantern lights and it’s something that makes this yard incredibly special.

But, the lanterns aren’t the only lighting we added to this space. We made sure our clients could host after-hours parties by incorporating soft lighting throughout the ground and around the landscaping. The effect adds a subtle glow to the space and ensures that our client can use their yard to entertain—day or night.

We even included areas where our clients can set the tone and choose the lighting colors they want, depending on who they are hosting and for what occasion. We love when our clients are able to change the space depending on how they plan to use it with their guests.

INSPIRATION FOR YOUR SPACE:
Adding lighting to your yard is a simple way to make it more magical, especially during the holiday season. Think about incorporating hanging lanterns, twinkle lights, or color-changing elements into your yard this year.

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Design Inspo

Travel-Inspired Design: How To Escape To Santorini In Your Own Space

A Little Bit About Santorini

Santorini is a travel destination celebrated for its stunning geographic location combined with its architectural style that’s instantly recognizable. Santorini sits on the Aegean Sea and is actually made up of a small cluster of islands. Though, when most people think of Santorini, it’s the main island Thera they’re envisioning. 

Surrounded by stunningly blue waters, the architecture in Santorini stands out in stark contrast thanks to its creamy white stucco homes and blue domed roofs. It’s a place unlike any other, so it’s no surprise that so many people want to recreate a Santorini-inspired space in their own yards.

Santorini-Inspired Design

With a rich history in architecture, sparkling waters on every side, and a bold color palette that’s instantly recognizable, its distinctive style is something many of our clients want to recreate for their own homes. 

So, how can you incorporate Santorini-inspired design in your yard? Let’s break down some of the details that will bring Santorini to life in your space.

A MUTED COLOR PALETTE

One way to embody a Santorini-inspired look is to go neutral. Stick with white and cream hues, which will instantly call to mind the buildings in Greece. So many of the structures both on the Santorini islands and throughout the Mediterranean are neutral white in color, so this is essential if you want to achieve that design style in your space at home.

A TOUCH OF BLUE

It’s hard to miss one of the most distinct features that make Santorini so special—and that’s all the blue accents. Blue domed buildings stand out amongst white stucco and perfectly complement the ocean nearby. If you want to bring Santorini home to your yard, having blue accents is a sure way to instantly set the tone for your space.

 

Whether you opt for a bold blue like the color you see topping so many of the buildings in Santorini, or a more subtle blue reminiscent of the Aegean Sea, this accent color is essential to any design that’s inspired by Santorini. We love incorporating mosaic blue tile into our designs and a matte finish also helps.

CURVED CORNERS & DECORATIVE WALLS

Aside from the incredible surroundings and beautiful weather, one of the main reasons Santorini continues to be one of the world’s most-visited islands is thanks to its unique architecture. Nowhere else will you find buildings that so seamlessly fit into the landscape and that look quite like they do in Greece.

 

Soft, curving structures are at the forefront of this design style, so to recreate this in your own space, opt for rounded edges and regal features. One way we bring this architectural style to life for our clients is by integrating pillars and decorative walls into our designs. We make sure there aren’t any stark corners or sharp accents, and make soft, curved accents a focal point.

CLASSIC LANDSCAPING

Because of its unique climate, plants native to Greece aren’t found elsewhere in the world. When we’re working with a client to create a Santorini-inspired space, we make sure to add landscape elements that you’d actually see if you were in Greece. This means, sprinkling the space with Mediterranean greenery, planting plenty of olive trees, and adding white pebbles as accents wherever possible.

THE RIGHT LIGHTING

Walking through the streets of Santorini at night, the lighting you’ll see is almost magical. Twinkling lights, hanging lanterns, and the soft glow of candles are everywhere. When we’re bringing this style home to a client’s yard, we always take time to add the perfect lighting, because it instantly alters the atmosphere and sets the tone for a Santorini-inspired space. We achieve this by adding large groups of candles and hanging lanterns from olive trees.

LAYERS AND LEVELS

Another one of the things that makes Santorini so special is that all the buildings are built into the islands’ hillside. The landscape is full of layers and levels that make every space feel interesting and full of depth. When we’re recreating Santorini for our clients, we take this to heart and make sure that we’re adding dimension to our designs with lots of layering to achieve this same effect.

Ready to talk about your project? Get in touch with our team to set up a free consultation call. We’re here to bring Santorini to your yard. Click here to contact us.

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Design Inspo

Day-To-Night Design Essentials

DAYTIME ESSENTIALS

When we’re designing a yard, we try to always make sure there’s a main focal point from the living spaces. This way, there’s always a beautiful view—even when the yard isn’t being used. These are some of the other daytime essentials we incorporate into the spaces we create:

 

Lounge Around

We have added swings of all kinds to our client’s yards. For some spaces, they take the form of a hanging bed—perfect for lounging by the pool. In other yards, we’ve added classic porch-style swings to our patios. And in some yards, we include rope swings that not only add rustic, natural material to the space, but are also tons of fun to enjoy. There are endless ways to add swings to a backyard space, and they are one of our all-time favorite elements to incorporate into a landscape design.

 

 Privacy, Please

During peak daylight hours, privacy is more of an issue than in the evening. If you’re planning to enjoy an afternoon poolside, or your morning coffee on the patio, considering how to promote privacy in your space is essential. The good news is, there are endless ways to make a space feel more secluded and to block out the view of your neighbors. We love helping our clients prioritize privacy in our designs. You can use greenery and shrubs to create lush walls that give you total privacy from your next-door neighbor. You can install a water wall or other feature that separates your space from the next lot. Or, you can add canopies and other barriers to your deck areas and feel like you’re completely in your own world, even if you have neighbors nearby.

 Shaded Spaces

One of the best ways to gain daytime functionality is to make sure there are enough shaded areas for whatever weather may come. Even in full, intense sun, on a rainy day, or when the weather is just not cooperating, you can make use of your exterior space. We’ve imported massive trees to provide natural cover from the sun. We’ve added seating nooks under covered patios. And, we’ve incorporated fully covered, outdoor living areas into our client’s designs for this very reason. Even if you don’t live in a sunny climate, making your space weather-ready with lots of covered areas is so important to utilize your yard day or night.

NIGHTTIME NEEDS

As the sun starts to set, you don’t need to head indoors if your yard is designed to light up the night. We want our clients to be able to use their space and transition from afternoon barbeques to dinner parties and late-night swims, which is why we make sure that every design emphasizes lighting. We incorporate a variety of different types of light that highlight all the yard’s focal features—so they can be fully appreciated in the evening.

Some of our favorite concepts to include are underwater lights, unexpected shapes and placement, colors, floating globes, twinkling accents, and lights that add depth and dimension to the space. Here are some of the other things that make a space perfect for evening entertaining:

 

Ample Entertainment

Evening is the perfect time to make use of an action-packed backyard. For many of our clients, we try to incorporate as many entertainment spaces as possible. This often includes sports courts, game tables, turf areas for lawn games, and more. Many of our clients also want to make space for low-key lunging after dark with areas to entertain friends and family for movie night or to watch their favorite team on TV. Some of our favorite yards that are incredible in the day and at night feature outdoor family rooms, massive TVs, or projector screens that allow our clients to have everyone over for a cozy evening under the stars.

Light A Fire

To keep warm in the evening, a fire pit is key. They’re one of our most requested features and a staple in any space you plan to spend time in after dark. And, the incredible thing about adding fire features to a backyard design, is that there are so many ways to bring them to light. We’ve designed small fire pits that make for cozy conversation areas, massive sunken fire pit lounges, and fire-focused elements that add shadow and depth to a yard. Fire elements, in some capacity, are a must to utilize yards after dark.

FOXTERRA’S FAVORITE DAY-TO-NIGHT DESIGNS

One design that truly embodies the day-to-night lifestyle we try to achieve for our clients is a project we’ve been working on that embodies everything you’d want in a backyard resort during the day as well as everything that brings it to life at night.

We have had so much fun coming up with creative ways to utilize the space and got to incorporate everything we mentioned above—and more.

For this client, entertainment is essential, so there’s space to play. We designed sport courts, a putting green, and as many outdoor activity areas as we could fit on this lot. We made sure to include plenty of shaded patio space, covered daybeds, and extensive patio structures so our clients can cool off when it’s too hot and still enjoy their space if it’s raining. And, we were even able to make space for a flower and vegetable garden, where our clients can spend time enjoying the natural beauty of their yard.

There’s a plunge pool that can be utilized day or night, thanks to the lighting, a sunken fire pit that’s perfect to warm things up on a crisp evening, an outdoor shower space to rinse off after taking a dip, and more.

Whether you want your yard to include it all—like the one we’ve been working on for our clients, or you just want to incorporate a few of these day-to-night essential features in your space, we’re here to help. Click here to book a free consultation call to talk about your project.

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Design trends

4 Reasons Our Clients Never Leave Their Backyards

How exactly do we bring that resort style, home?

It’s all about the design choices—and certain features instantly call to mind luxury, relaxation, and an at-home escape. Here are some of our most-requested design elements that have our clients spending as much time outside in their at-home resorts as possible.

SWINGS

There is nothing more relaxing than curling up under the warm summer sky and gently swaying on a porch swing. And that’s why one of our most frequent requests is to incorporate swings into our designs. For many of our clients, swings are nostalgic and instantly bring them back to a time in their lives when they moved at a slower pace and genuinely got to enjoy relaxing on the porch with friends and family. Swings are connected to so many of our childhood memories, it’s like an instant flashback whenever we utilize them in our designs. They’re one feature we make space for—no matter what the design style of the yard is. 

 

HOW WE USE SWINGS IN OUR DESIGNS: 

 

We have added swings of all kinds to our client’s yards. For some spaces, they take the form of a hanging bed—perfect for lounging by the pool. In other yards, we’ve added classic porch-style swings to our patios. And in some yards, we include rope swings that not only add rustic, natural material to the space, but are also tons of fun to enjoy. There are endless ways to add swings to a backyard space, and they are one of our all-time favorite elements to incorporate into a landscape design.

 

FIREPITS

For many of our clients, their firepit is the most loved design element in their outdoor space. It doesn’t matter if they have a massive pool, a gorgeous spa, water features, dining areas, and every other resort feature you can think of, it’s the firepit they utilize the most. 

 

There’s something so mesmerizing about gathering around a fire and soaking in the late-night glow. It’s no surprise that our clients can’t live without firepits in their designs and why fire features are another one of our most-requested design features.

 

HOW WE USE FIREPITS IN OUR DESIGNS: 

 

There are so many ways to incorporate fire into a backyard design and we always enjoy exploring new ways to add a firepit to a space. Take “The Mirage,” for example. We wanted to make a firepit that looks like it’s floating on water and brought it to life by adding a glass-sided pool to the design. We’ve also played with scale—making absolutely massive fire areas, and small ones that spout water, as well. When our clients tell us they want a firepit, we are always excited about all the different ways we can make a fire feature the centerpiece of a space.

WATER WALLS

Water walls are the ultimate tranquil accent to any zen design. There’s no doubt that waterfalls, fountains, and other amazing water features can take a space to a luxurious dimension. But, it’s often this subtle water feature—a water wall—that our clients request most. It’s not overpowering but adds movement and relaxation to any design. The soft trickling sound of water is so calming and a water wall is a perfect way to turn any yard into a backyard spa.

 

HOW WE USE WATER WALLS IN OUR DESIGNS: 

Water walls aren’t as flashy as some other water features, but they instantly set the mood in a space, which is why so many of our clients love them. If relaxation is the ultimate goal for a client’s space, water walls are an element we instantly think of adding to the design. Plus, they’re perfect for small spaces. Unlike fountains or waterfalls, you can create a water wall in even the most minimal yards.

OUTDOOR SHOWERS

Outdoor showers are something our clients have been requesting more and more—especially when the design prioritizes privacy. When we are thinking about how to design a space, we always want our clients to feel like they are in their own private world and that their yard is a getaway. Having an outdoor shower makes you feel like you’re staying at a private bungalow or that you have your own private beach in the backyard. They allow our clients to rinse off after a dip or enjoy a full-on, luxurious outdoor shower experience where they can reconnect with nature.

 

HOW WE USE OUTDOOR SHOWERS IN OUR DESIGNS: 

 

One of the reasons our clients are asking for outdoor showers is because they’re practical. There are countless times when having a place to rinse off comes in handy. But, beyond that, we have been adding outdoor showers to our yards because they’re the ultimate way to bring the indoors—out—and really expand our clients’ living space into their yards. It might be as simple as adding a shower spigot and privacy area to the side of a patio, or it could be as luxurious as installing a fully tiled, enclosed shower with every added amenity. When it comes to outdoor showers, anything that’s possible indoors can be brought to life outdoors, as well.

These are just some of the elements that our clients can’t get enough of in their yards. They are the reason our clients never want to leave their outdoor areas and they are some of the things we love adding to our designs the most.

Which features excite you the most? Let us know by leaving a comment below. Or, head to our Instagram @foxterradesign to send us a DM, so we know exactly which exterior design details you would add to your space.

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