BACKYARD
There are no symmetrical elements of this contemporary patio, yet the components feel balanced thanks to the rectilinear design "blocks" aligned both perpendicularly and horizontally with the home's facade. The stepping-stone "carpet" and the section of oat grasses balance nicely with the solid concrete patio and the pool. These elements and textures are all the more exciting because of the asymmetrical arrangement.
This lovely spiral, rendered in flagstone, seems to vibrate with its own energy. The stones form a rhythmic motion as the spiral narrows, turns in on itself and terminates at a center firepit. Where most of the spaces between the stones are planted with soft, woolly thyme, note the contrasting crushed stone used in just a single band to further emphaisze the strong spiral line in this design.
A front yard gets a modern twist: The concrete patio and edgings divide the space into entryway, play area, and sitting spots, plus note the warm color and horizontal structure of the gates, the simplified plantings, the bright orange cushions and the contemporary table. The sunken feel of the space, reinforced by the wall with plantings above it, makes the entire space seem protected yet still open. There's room to relax and play, all in safety.
The pair of raised planters on either side of the wood corridor is a hybrid combining both symmetrical and asymmetrical aspects. They are certainly made from the same stone and feature the same square proportions. But there are different textures, shapes and colors of vegetation in each planter, infusing a touch of asymmetrical balance into the design.
Q