The owner of this home, a respected home builder, completely renovated the property — inside and out. Given his trade, the client wanted to maintain focus on the updated house itself. The Van Zelst team extended the new feel of the home into the landscape with carefully chosen hardscape elements and thoughtful plantings that provide pockets of color and visually frame the home.

New hardscape additions make an immediate impact. A dilapidated asphalt drive was removed and replaced with clay pavers, installed by the Van Zelst in-house masonry team. A dated flagstone walk gave way to carefully laid bluestone slabs that complement the red brick and will last a lifetime. These more appropriately reflect the level of polish evident throughout the home.

Behind the house, a concrete pool deck was also replaced with bluestone, a brick wall helps delineate front and back living areas, and a Lannon stone wall provides a visual and functional transition to the expansive back yard. By combining various types of stone, the finished look is interesting, layered and unique, while enhancing the flow of the overall environment.

Like many Winnetka homes, this one was plagued by drainage issues. To eliminate future problems, the Van Zelst team designed a new underground drainage system to move water away from the low-lying backyard and pump it to the storm sewer at the front of the house. Best of all, the system is almost fully concealed.

Moving forward, Van Zelst maintenance professionals ensure that the hardscape and plantings remain healthy and ready for the family to enjoy throughout the year.