The Winners Are Here | Awards for Excellence in Landscape Design

Front Elevation Design
SILVER AWARD
Creative Environments

The landscape of the Hoffman at Adero Canyon harmonizes seamlessly with the home’s architecture, integrating contemporary elements that echo the patterns and geometry of the roof angles. Beyond its role in safety, the pool barrier fence cleverly doubles as a water feature, enriching the pool area’s ambiance. At the forefront, a mesmerizing negative-edge water feature captures attention, serving as a focal point and gracefully addressing the terrain challenge. Thoughtfully positioned steps and lounge areas skillfully navigate the three ft. to four ft. elevation gap from curb to door, crafting an engaging arrival experience. Deliberate plant selection in the front yard prioritizes species such as cacti and javelina-resistant plants, ensuring a balance of aesthetic allure and practicality.

GOLD AWARD
Desert Foothills Landscape

Various materials were masterfully blended to create the distinctive exterior of this Echo Canyon home. It is perfectly positioned on a hillside to capture the watchful eye of Camelback’s famous Praying Monk. Concrete stairs gently slope from the front entrance, providing easy access to the street 50 feet below. Custom-designed steel planter boxes flanking the stairs were welded and finished on site and are filled with White Agave, Golden Barrel Cactus and colorful Penstemon. Strategically placed under an opening in the roof, a black mosaic water fountain provides a soothing Zen-like influence as soon as you step out of the front door. Panels of one-inch steel tubing backed by steel mesh separate the front porch from the sidebar/patio area. The panels continue across the top of the nine-foot retaining wall, providing a subtle backdrop for a hedge of Hopseed and Bougainvillea.

TEAM

Designer: Jake Plocher.

Backyard Space for a Lot up to 10,000 SQ FT
SILVER AWARD
Creative Environments

The Aura embodies the essence of a modern desert landscape, seamlessly blending modern aesthetics with the unique allure of the arid environment. Intense water-jetted panels serve as screens and accent features, infusing the space with artistic allure. Beyond, a sleek modern swimming pool beckons, adorned with a striking water feature that dances in the sunlight, offering a refreshing oasis amidst the arid terrain. Adjacent, the spa aligns with the primary room, drawing the eye as a focal point of relaxation and luxury, inviting moments of respite in harmony with the desert surroundings.

GOLD AWARD
Creative Environments

A Spanish Modern courtyard and entryway greet visitors in the Neches, harmonizing effortlessly with the residence’s architectural style. The courtyard’s focal point is a water feature embellished with ornate tiles, welcoming guests with a sense of arrival and elegance. A pass-through fireplace commands attention from the great room, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces while anchoring the Tavern or outdoor entertaining area to the patio. Adding to the ambiance, a modern Spanish water feature becomes a captivating focal point in the water garden, visible from the Tavern, enhancing the overall atmosphere of relaxation and refinement.

ICONIC AWARD
Cameron Custom

The pool at Skyeview, perched above the actual home, reflects the ingenuity required to overcome its challenging location. At the top of the stairs, a life-sized sentinel-like sculpture by local artist Jennyfer Stratman welcomes visitors, its bronze figure bearing the artist’s fingerprints for a personal touch. Integrated Lunawood skirting around the steel pergola and seating areas harmonizes nature with modern design. Even the pergola is sculptural in its form, its white steel frame inspired by the ribs of a Saguaro. Amenities include a barrel sauna and cedar hot tub by Forrest Cooperage, offering luxurious retreats amidst the stunning Arizona skyline.

TEAM

Builder: Cameron Custom.
Architectural and Interior Design: Trent Hancock and Joel Contreras.
Pool and Landscape Design: Trent Hancock and Victor Parra.
Steel Fabrication: S&S Metal.

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Backyard Space for a Lot 10,000 to 20,000 SQ FT
SILVER AWARD
Creative Environments

Set against modern farm architecture, the Willow retreat features a raised swimming pool adorned with sleek decorative tiles, adding a touch of contemporary elegance to the classic farmhouse landscape. A floating deck, suspended above the water’s surface, provides the perfect spot for sunbathing and relaxation. Complementing the architectural style, a modern barn structure stands proudly, offering a seamless blend of rustic charm and contemporary design. Stretching beyond, an expansive turf area invites outdoor leisure activities. At the same time, a striking basalt water feature serves as a captivating backdrop, adding depth and tranquility to the scene.

ICONIC AWARD
Creative Environments

Inspired by the sleek lines and contemporary aesthetics of the home’s modern architecture, the Reserves effortlessly merges the indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a harmonious connection. Every aspect, from the towering Saguaro cactus to the strategically placed shade structure, is meticulously crafted to draw the gaze upward, offering glimpses of the majestic mountain backdrop. The fireplace, nestled beside the spa, serves as a seamless link between the outdoor dining area and the inviting pool, further enhancing the fluidity and cohesion of the overall design.

Backyard Space for a Lot more than 20,000 SQ FT
SILVER AWARD
Creative Environments

Nestled within the Sunburst, a captivating negative-edge pool adorned with leek black custom tiles refracts the sun’s rays, offering a serene focal point for relaxation. Adjacent to this aquatic haven stands the Grand Cabana, a gracefully cantilevered outdoor pavilion inviting guests to indulge in shaded tranquility during gatherings. Tucked away in the side yard, a chef’s outdoor kitchen boasts a charming water feature by its side and imitates the slatted structure of the Grand Cabana. In the heart of the landscape, the Patio de Fuego, a sunken fire lounge, beckons intimate conversations amidst the tranquil waters. Meanwhile, the Jardin de Agua, a private spa oasis, allures with its opulent features, including a custom gold tiled water wall and a negative-edge spa. At the same time, louver windows ensure both luxury and privacy.

GOLD AWARD
Refined Gardens

This residence’s landscape boasts lush Mediterranean-style plantings and custom-carved limestone water features. At the heart of the sanctuary lies a tranquil pool adorned with a wall water feature cascading into the water below. Furniture painted in yellow hues offers vibrant pops of color against the earthy tones of the surroundings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

TEAM

Contractor: Brimley Development.

ICONIC AWARD
Creative Environments

Embodying a contemporary aesthetic, the landscape design embraces clean geometry, evoking a sense of modern elegance. Each element is meticulously chosen, from the carefully curated planting selection to the precise sizes of the specimens, creating a harmonious and visually appealing composition. The atmosphere exudes serenity and tranquility, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a calming oasis. Paying homage to the desert’s inherent beauty, the design serves as an ode to its rugged yet captivating landscape, blending seamlessly into its surroundings while offering a sanctuary of modern sophistication.

Courtyard
SILVER AWARD
Creative Environments

Infusing a contemporary flair into the classic Spanish aesthetic, the Hastings at Sterling Grove showcases inventive approaches to integrating deco tiles and various materials into its design. Within its courtyard, a striking TV plant wall stands alongside a rectangular fire pit, both adorned with intricate patterned tiles that infuse character and charm into the space, transforming what could have been a simple gathering area into a vibrant focal point of the home.

GOLD AWARD
Esther Boivin Interiors

The client tasked the designer with designing an outdoor space between the new casita and the garage. Challenges posed by the proximity to the road, visibility of the neighboring house and adjacency to parking areas were solved by the designer. The space is characterized by its clean lines and monochromatic color scheme, primarily utilizing shades of gray that evoke a sense of calm and sophistication. The large, 10×16 ft. abstract art wall that anchors the courtyard is a bold statement. Flanking this wall are custom-designed metal fence elevations of various heights in a gunmetal finish. The ground in front of the wall boasts an intricate tile layout, combining polished black granite and iridescent black deco tiles for a striking effect. A central, elegant pathway, bordered by artificial grass on both sides, guides visitors through the space.

ICONIC AWARD
Creative Environments

The Signature courtyard design seamlessly harmonizes with the modern architecture of the home. Balancing functionality and aesthetics, the bridge is adorned with a thoughtfully designed railing, ensuring the safety of users without compromising on style. A contemporary reflecting pond mirrors the swimming pool at the rear of the house, creating the illusion of the entry parlor floating as one approaches the entrance. Providing a cozy gathering spot, a covered fire lounge area invites relaxation and conversation. Outside the sliding doors, garden patio nooks offer secluded retreats for enjoyment of the outdoors. The planting scheme is carefully curated with a “less is more” approach, featuring a selection of desert and specimen plants that add texture and interest to the surroundings while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.

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Pool
SILVER AWARD
Creative Environments

Characterized by sleek modernity, the Sunburst features a striking negative edge pool with a Lautner edge, exuding sophistication and style. The interior is adorned with custom black tiles, creating a bold contrast against the water’s surface and emphasizing the contemporary aesthetic. Cascading seamlessly, the water flows into a surrounding basin, framing the sunken fire lounge with a tranquil oasis. This seamless integration of elements creates a serene and clean ambiance, inviting relaxation and enjoyment of the sleek, modern landscape design.

GOLD AWARD
Cameron Custom

Reimagining a 40-year-old pool with challenging access, located uniquely above the home, required a vision of creativity and ingenuity. The goal was to transform this space into a private day spa, making the most of its exceptional setting. This elevated oasis now features a pristine pool, a cedar barrel jacuzzi, a sauna, an outdoor tub, and an outdoor shower. Designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, it also includes a Hestan BBQ and refrigerator, making it perfect for unwinding and entertaining. The team used Lunawood material for built-in seating and cladding for the pergola to integrate this spa-like retreat with the main home. Painted entirely white, this pergola hovers like a crown over the pool area, casting intriguing shadows and adding a dynamic visual element.

TEAM

Builder: Cameron Custom.
Design: Trent Hancock and Joel Contreras.
Pool and Landscape Design: Victor Parra and Trent Hancock.

ICONIC AWARD
Creative Environments

Functional Garden
ICONIC AWARD
Berghoff Design Group

Embark on a journey through a hidden gem that could rival Arizona’s scenic trails. But this trail isn’t open to the public—it’s an exclusive retreat born from a passion for nature and reflective walks. As you tread the path, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant display of wildflowers, painting the landscape with bursts of color. This picturesque scene sets the stage for what lies ahead. Follow the trail as it winds to a remarkable sight: a handcrafted stone labyrinth steeped in more than 3,000 years of history. This ancient structure serves as a powerful tool for meditation, inviting you to center your thoughts amidst the beauty of nature. With each step through the labyrinth, it’s a moment of quiet reflection—a chance to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. In this serene setting, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, you’ll discover a newfound sense of peace and clarity. This isn’t just a walk—it’s a transformative journey inward.

Secialty Garden

Indulge in an unforgettable restaurant setting at this Valley icon, where a versatile patio seamlessly integrates with the stunning vistas. Lush desert landscaping envelops the patio, creating a serene backdrop that complements the rugged beauty of the Valley. Native plants and succulents thrive in the arid climate, adding vibrant greenery to the outdoor space. The patio extends the breathtaking views, offering an oasis of tranquility amidst the rugged terrain. Each evening, as the sun sets over the Valley, the patio comes alive with the aroma of freshly picked rosemary, delicate lavender accents, and the citrusy zest of ripe oranges—all carefully integrated into your dining experience. Sleek metal planters, brimming with verdant foliage and cacti, not only divide tables but also enhance the ambiance, creating intimate alcoves that promise a one-of-a-kind alfresco dining adventure.

Fountain Or Water Feature
SILVER AWARD
Cameron Custom

The water feature at Skyeview was born out of necessity. The team was tasked with concealing a hole dug into the ground and the bedrock below that house. This tunnel initially served as an entrance into the home for guests parking on the street below, but it was abandoned during the remodel in favor of a much easier entrance to the home. Due to the terracing nature of the stairwell, the team decided to conceal it by making it look like a water feature cascading down the stairs and seemingly disappearing from view below the home. The team wanted to create a monolithic sculpture that would tie into the wood cladding of the home and the many Saguaros and organ pipe cacti found around the house. To accomplish this, they used leftover sheets of Lunawood and flipped them inwards to create a form into which concrete was poured.

TEAM

Builder: Cameron Custom.
Architectural and Interior Design: Trent Hancock and Joel Contreras.Pool and Landscape Design: Trent Hancock and Steve Vollmer.

GOLD AWARD
Creative Environments

Navigating more than 10 feet of elevation change, the Hoffman ingeniously incorporates a terracing water feature, seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. The design gracefully descends through runnel-like trenches across the terracing pads, beginning with a striking basalt water wall at the summit. Converging at the base, the cascading water transforms into a captivating fountain wall, creating a focal point of tranquility and beauty. Intertwined with lush grass steps and a welcoming fire lounge area, the design directs one’s gaze toward the breathtaking Fountain Hill surroundings, offering a harmonious blend of natural serenity and architectural elegance.

ICONIC AWARD
Berghoff Design Group

With its decorative raised edge and European-inspired shape, this custom in-ground fountain seamlessly blends timeless sophistication with sleek modern design. A true statement of enduring style, this fountain exudes a sense of timelessness that transcends fleeting trends. Its graceful form and sleek lines ensure that it will always remain a captivating focal point as it greets guests to this estate, adding a touch of refinement to any setting. As the water gently cascades, it mimics the marbled pattern of the surrounding tiles, creating a mesmerizing visual symphony that delights the senses. The soothing sound of bubbling water adds an extra layer of tranquility, inviting you to pause, unwind, and embrace the serenity of this esteemed estate.

Specialty Structure
SILVER AWARD
Cameron Custom

The team transformed what used to be a simple side yard access into a statement entry. This small passageway has been elevated into an opportunity for artistic flair and architectural sophistication. To create a sense of privacy for the home at the entryway, an 8-ft. concrete wall was constructed, extending from the mountainside to the frame of the steel portal door. Using scraps of Lunawood material turned inward, a form was created for this wall, giving the concrete a texture and look that echoes the home’s design. The gate is fabricated from solid steel, yet it opens effortlessly thanks to the FritsJurgens pivot system. Above the gate, a double-sheet metal canopy was fabricated with a laser-cut reverse image of the Skyeview logo. This innovative design creates a shade structure where the logo, made of sunlight, moves and floats across the door and its surroundings throughout the day. This dynamic play of light and shadow adds a unique artistic element to the entryway.

TEAM

Builder: Cameron Custom.
Design: Trent Hancock and Joel Contreras.

GOLD AWARD
Berghoff Design Group

Every detail is crafted to elevate your al fresco dining experience. Adorned with a state-of-the-art pizza oven and a built-in grill, this outdoor haven is a testament to the art of outdoor cooking. At the heart of the design is a spacious, seamless island that beckons hosts and guests alike. With ample room for food preparation and entertaining, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any outdoor gathering. A built-in beverage nook provides a convenient spot for guests to store their drinks, ensuring they stay cool and bug-free while they mingle and indulge. Meanwhile, built-in shelves offer ample storage for all your outdoor cooking essentials, keeping everything within reach and organized. When the sun sets and the evening chill sets in, gather around the matching fire pit, where comfortable seating invites you to linger and savor the warmth of the flames. This is more than just an outdoor kitchen; it’s a culinary sanctuary designed to inspire and delight at every turn.

ICONIC AWARD
Cameron Custom

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Reimagining a 40-year-old pool with challenging access, located uniquely above the home, required a vision of creativity and ingenuity. The goal was to transform this space into a private day spa, seamlessly blending luxury and functionality while making the most of its exceptional setting.This elevated oasis now features a pristine pool, a cedar barrel jacuzzi, a sauna, an outdoor tub, and an outdoor shower. Designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, it also includes a Hestan BBQ and refrigerator, making it perfect for unwinding and entertaining.

The pergola itself presented an opportunity for creative expression. The team envisioned a structure that would provide shade and serve as a sculptural element. Inspired by the ribs of a Saguaro cactus, the team designed a series of frames supported by a steel base that disappears into the floor, creating the illusion of floating frames.

TEAM

Builder: Cameron Custom.
Design: Trent Hancock and Joel Contreras.

Innovative Materials
ICONIC AWARD
Cameron Custom

The decision to clad both the exterior and interior of Skyeview in Lunawood speaks to a deep reverence for the environment and a commitment to sustainable design. By harnessing the inherent warmth and organic texture of thermally modified wood, Skyeview seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, blurring the boundaries between inside and out. Each surface tells a story of craftsmanship and connection, echoing the rugged beauty of the desert landscape.

TEAM

Builder: Cameron Custom.
Architectural and Interior Design: Trent Hancock and Joel Contreras.

On-The-Boards for a Lot 10,000 to 20,000 SQ FT
ICONIC AWARD
Berghoff Design Group

Step into a world where family fun knows no bounds! Our visionary project redefines leisure for all ages, beckoning families and the young at heart to indulge in a symphony of joy and adventure. Nestled within, discover the allure of in-ground trampolines, a vibrant playground, exhilarating water slides, and a captivating skate bowl – each crafted to ignite the spirit of play and exploration. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Engage in friendly competition on the sports court or retreat to private patios designed with grown-ups in mind, where relaxation meets sophistication. Amidst sprawling lawns, every member has ample space to thrive, fostering moments of connection, activity, and personal growth.

On-The-Boards for a Lot more than 20,000 SQ FT
SILVER AWARD
Creative Environments

Set in the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, The Travisso boasts a multi-level pool that embodies luxury and innovation. With an impressive elevation difference of approximately 20 feet, the design incorporates terraced lawns and gardens, creating a dynamic and visually captivating landscape. At the heart of the design, a raised negative-edge party spa displays a unique bar feature, offering a stylish and entertaining focal point for gatherings and relaxation. This harmonious blend of elevated design elements and lush greenery epitomizes the perfect balance of sophistication and natural beauty, creating an oasis of leisure and enjoyment in the heart of Texas.

GOLD AWARD
Berghoff Design Group

Behold this mountainside marvel, a fusion of nature’s grandeur and human innovation. This sprawling estate offers an array of delights, from a shimmering pool and spacious entertainment areas to a soothing hot tub with a cascading water feature. Take a leisurely stroll along winding paths that lead to serene ponds and inviting sports courts. With its breathtaking views and modern design, this custom estate celebrates the art of outdoor living, making it hard to resist the call of the great outdoors.

ICONIC AWARD
Berghoff Design Group

This oceanside masterpiece evokes the luxurious charm of a contemporary spa retreat and the timeless elegance of a cliffside golf resort. Meandering through the verdant lawns, each step reveals a new, breathtaking tableau, more stunning than the last. You encounter another exquisite vignette with every turn, where sleek architectural lines and lush botanical artistry converge. Modernity and tranquility are in perfect harmony, creating an oasis that captivates the senses and soothes the soul.