Clay Pavers and a Bluestone Walk in Winnetka

Clay pavers and a bluestone walk suit the new exterior.

Extreme Home Makeover

Winnetka, Illinois

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.

Northbrook Shade Garden

Wooded areas were underplanted to add color and texture.

A Shady Seat in a Glenview Landscape

A built-in seatwall is perfect for admiring summer blooms.

Experimenting with Color

Glenview, Illinois

Every year for more than two decades, the Van Zelst team has counted on a new challenge from this long-term client. A lover of color, she has been continually excited about trying new palettes and plant combinations, often based on her whatever might be catching her eye this year.

The mutual trust that developed over this enduring relationship led to many beautiful landscapes. Occasionally, our team would take on a major renovation or upgrade, such as raising the rear beds to make them easier for her to reach or replacing overgrown evergreens, but most years were focused on adding to the already spectacular color with new annuals, perennials and shrubs.

In addition, the Van Zelst maintenance team has been responsible for keeping the landscape healthy and lush, as well as repairing and maintaining hardscape elements.

Knowing that there isn’t a plant this homeowner didn’t like, the Van Zelst team has delighted in creating colorful, texture-rich environments that evolve from May through November.

Inviting Blues

The bluestone pool deck is welcoming yet refined.

Extreme Home Makeover

Winnetka, Illinois

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.

Gathering Hot Spot

Lannon stone, bluestone and gravel surround the fire pit.

Pink, Blue and White Blooms

Hydrangeas, hostas, vinca and impatiens thrive in the shade.

A Private Retreat

Mounds of foliage, shrubs and perennials help the spa blend in.

Interplay of Hardscape

Bluestone pavers pair well with Lannon stone walls.

A Weathered Waterfall in Northbrook

The pool and seatwall appear aged to match existing stone.

Maximizing a Glenview Patio

An elevated bluestone deck offers sweeping views.