Date: September 3, 2020 | Story: Tiffany Adams | Photography: Rett Peek | Styling: Lauren Cerrato |
Backyard Oasis: Better Lawns & Gardens transforms a blank-slate backyard into an inviting escape
The owners of this west Little Rock home fell in love with its peaceful setting the first time they laid eyes on it. Wooded areas, space to roam, and a backyard with lots of potential drew them in; however, they were eager to put their own touch on the space. “The property was absolutely beautiful, and I could envision making the backyard a resort just for us,” one of the homeowners says.
Following a friend’s recommendation, the couple brought in David Munsey, III, of Better Lawns & Gardens to bring the vision to life. “My husband and I ended up meeting with David separately, but he listened to both of us—which is so important—and understood what we wanted,” she says. Their wish list included turning a grassy open space into a pool and lounge area while updating and expanding the outdoor kitchen. “They wanted to be able to take full advantage of everything the property has to offer,” David says, noting they created other satellite areas outside of this main space to allow the couple to take in all of its beauty in different seasons.
The homeowner also notes she and her husband desired a highly functional space where every zone would be fully used. “The entire backyard was designed to have different areas to entertain, and we are certainly enjoying every part each day,” she says. “It has been especially great timing with the pandemic, as we’re home now more than ever to take advantage of it,” she adds. “If you have a vision, don’t be afraid to go for it. Find the right person to help you, and make it a reality. Completing this project really made the house our home.”
POOL CHIC
One of the biggest additions to this west Little Rock home’s backyard was the pool, which the owners use for exercise almost seven months of the year. Because of the sloped nature of the grounds, a retaining wall was installed to divert drainage. Its brick basket-weave design plays off the ipe wood panels seen around the pool’s perimeter.
KITCHEN COMPLEMENT
With a grill, griddle, and beverage storage, the outdoor kitchen has all the amenities needed to cook a quiet dinner for two or to entertain larger groups. Modern influence can be seen at the bar counter where the natural stone has a clean-lined edge. Additional guests can be accommodated at the nearby dining table or in one of several conversation areas surrounding the pool.
Design Resources
Contractor and landscape, outdoor living, and pool design Better Lawns & Gardens Appliances, pavers, and pool coping Antique Brick Outdoors Countertops Affordable Granite & More Paint Sherwin-Williams Pool (installation) Brooks Pool Company
