Winnetka (before 1/5)

North Shore drainage problems are well known, and this property required a reliable solution that would keep water from pooling at the rear of the lot.

In addition, the dilapidated asphalt drive and dated flagstone walk were in need of replacement, and an upgrade to complement the home’s new brick facade was in order. Beyond a few shrubs, plantings were virtually nonexistent, with turf commanding much of the views from the home and street. With a complete renovation of the house underway, it was time to reconsider plantings, hardscape and the homeowner’s overall goals for the landscape.

Winnetka (before 2/5)

Winnetka (before 3/5)

Winnetka (before 4/5)

Winnetka (before 5/5)

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.

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.

New Brick Paver Drive in Winnetka

Replacing concrete upgrades the whole property.

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.

Bluestone Pool Deck in Winnetka

A shady spot provides views of the plantings and pool.