Aligning Landscape with Lifestyle—A Winning Combination for HGTV “Landscapers’ Challenge”

Neil and Susan Locke asked HGTV’s “Landscapers’ Challenge” to help transform their mundane yard into a beautiful, serene space for entertaining and enjoying the outdoors. After competing with several other top landscapers, Hursthouse won the chance to do the job.

Hursthouse designed a series of “outdoor rooms” perfect for the Lockes’ lifestyle. Outside the back door, ruddy bricks divide a stunning bluestone terrace into four areas. A raised planter marks off a stylized foyer next to a central fountain accented with flower-filled urns. On one side, a large table invites al fresco dining; on the other, comfortable seating suggests coffee or cocktails. Boxwood and hydrangea accent the terrace retaining walls. A stroll down the terrace stairs leads to additional destinations: a sun-warmed hammock tucked amidst soft shrubbery for Neil’s afternoon naps, a trampoline for the girls surrounded by arborvitae, and a bench nestled in front of a lovely shade garden. At the back of the property, a grape- and rose-covered pergola embraces a raised firepit.

Spending time outdoors has now become a favorite pastime for the Lockes and their friends. “This yard is really great,” says Neil. “I don’t know why we’d ever want to be inside.”