1/ BRING PAVING TO LIFE
Surrounding stepping stones with plant material cleverly blends a hardscape into the natural environment. In his plans for a two-acre Great Falls property, landscape architect Anthony Cusat of McHale Landscape Design installed slabs of weathered fieldstone on individual concrete pads with soil-filled joints, then planted a mix of Mazus, creeping Jenny and creeping thyme. “These low-growing, flowering ground covers weave a floral tapestry through the stonework,” he notes.
Cusat recommends selecting species that can handle moderate foot traffic and withstand radiant heat from stone in full sun. “Make joints wide enough to allow for plant growth, but comfortable for most stride lengths,” he adds. Proper drainage and irrigation are key to long-term plant health.

2/ LIGHT THE NIGHT
Subtle, ambient lighting enhances the beauty of a Vienna, Virginia, landscape. Ed Ball Designs implemented the three-acre project’s low-voltage system in collaboration with Lighthouse Outdoor Lighting and Audio. Uplights enhance mature trees and surrounding woods, while path and accent lights provide elegant wayfinding through beds and hardscape areas. “Outdoor lighting increases usability and safety, but also frames views, highlights textures and introduces depth,” says landscape architect Ed Ball. He recommends soft, layered lighting rather than overly harsh illumination. “Choose warm color temperatures for a natural glow,” he notes, “and keep fixtures discreet. The goal is to showcase the landscape—not the light fixtures themselves.”

3/ RUN A RIVER THROUGH IT
Great Falls residents tapped Pristine Acres to jettison a dated swimming pool in exchange for a custom water feature that would create a tranquil oasis on their five-acre property. Making the most of an existing slope, president Steve Waldron and landscape architect Kevin Kurdziolek conceived a tiered system of waterfalls that flows into a creek-like channel near a bed of river rocks. “Under the rocks,” details Waldron, “there is a reservoir with a pump that filters and recirculates water back to the top.”
To create a successful waterfall feature, they agree that understanding site topography is essential, as is having proper pumps and plumbing in place. Sourcing plenty of small boulders and plants imparts a natural feel—and even attracts wildlife, from dragonflies to frogs.

4/ FORGE NEW PATHWAYS
Splendid parterre gardens grace a 200-acre, Lutherville, Maryland, property designed by Fine Earth Landscape, Inc. Pea-gravel pathways traversing the beds serve as passages to a pavilion, pool and side lawn, as well as mini-destinations for contemplating a profusion of perennials, from late-spring peony and allium to Shasta daisy, hibiscus and coneflower come summer.
“The garden was designed to have certain color schemes throughout the seasons,” remarks president Joel Hafner. When choosing perennials, he says it’s crucial to consider plant height. “Taller plants should be centered, with lower plants surrounding them. Select species that provide long bloom seasons, thrive in our climate, are drought-tolerant and come back year after year.”

5/ REIMAGINE THE DETAILS
In their completion of a small Bethesda property, D. Blake Dunlevy and Tracy Meekins of D. A. Dunlevy conceived and crafted a custom cedar fence with a Moroccan motif. The homeowner, a belly dancing instructor, wanted to establish a private, tranquil space where she could gather with her family and practice dancing with friends. “Fences are generally regarded as necessary for security, privacy or safety,” says Dunlevy. “But in this case, we treated the fence like a wall in a home and adorned it with beauty.” When customizing millwork, he advises, “Know the style and aesthetic you’re going for and don’t overdo it. Provide the right amount of embellishment for the scale and prominence of the feature you’re creating.”

6/ PLAY WITH FIRE
A gas firepit clad in hand-cut Carderock veneer and mitered-granite slabs creates a modern focal point on the terrace of a McLean property designed by J. R. Peter of Colao & Peter. A fire feature, he explains, should harmonize with surrounding materials and be positioned 12 to 24 inches above the floor for a clear sightline. “We use durable, high-end materials that are heat- and weather-resistant,” Peter says.
It’s also important to consider wind direction and include space for fuel or wood storage. Finally, he advises, “Make sure to hire a plumber who specializes in natural gas and propane to guarantee proper installation and code compliance.
“Beyond standard firepits and fireplaces,” he continues, “sculptural fire bowls and fire lanterns can create a resort-like ambiance.”