The landscape surrounding this Glenview home, located in a recently built subdivision, was designed to accommodate the needs of a young family that likes to entertain and relax outdoors. Thoughtful attention to these various needs for children’s play, food preparation and gardening has resulted in a space that can comfortably change with the passage of time.

Built overlooking a small lake, the house enjoys views of the water but privacy from neighboring houses. A large central lawn, raised and leveled to enhance the play area for the children, was then encircled by an attractive white picket fence, which contributes to the all-American feel of the
setting. A large mixed border of shrubs, perennials, annuals and bulbs was developed on both sides of the fence where it follows the lake.

Large flagstone steps lead from the lawn down to a dock just large enough for fishing, reading or swan-watching. In spring, the steps are flanked by the vibrant blooms of creeping phlox cascading down the slope. Later, tall purple alliums, followed by coneflowers, hydrangeas and daylilies, add to the border’s cheerful colors.

Near the house, a small formal herb garden
provides handy harvests for the summer’s
frequent barbecues, usually enjoyed on the large bluestone patio that’s the perfect warm-weather hangout, day or night.