The transformation of this private residence in Winnetka, Illinois required that the landscape design be revamped as well. The new modernity of the renovated home demanded a similar modern sparseness and sleekness in the landscape, while simultaneously achieving a welcoming and comforting warmth.

McKay Landscape Architects, in collaboration with Xavier Vendrell Studio, utilized bluestone pavers to create a contemporary and cohesive design. All hard surfaces—the walkways, driveway, parking court, and terrace—are covered by the pavers and unified by the subtle tone of that elegant material. The linear nature of the pavers is mirrored by the horizontal wood slats of the fence; that effect is furthered by the shadows the fence casts on the landscape. Visual play was created by planting a colorful array of flowers in the garden’s interior while having only white flowers in the surrounding border. A sculptural geometric rain garden was created to deal with existing drainage issues, and to once more reiterate the crisp simplicity of the modern.