Asian-Inspired Retreat

Before

Bill and Michele Garber purchased their 1959 ranch-style home five years ago. Instead of being scared off by the home's dated look, the couple welcomed the need to remodel as an opportunity to add their personal style. Finally satisfied with the interior of their home, they are now ready to focus their attention on the exterior. The Garbers would like to create a visually appealing, comfortable family backyard to enjoy with their two-year-old son.

After

Bill and Michele feel that the neighborhood is an ideal place to raise their son, Max. Now that Max is getting bigger, they want to change the layout of the yard to better serve their needs. Three landscape designers — Jonathan Sidy, Gayle Martin and Amit Reichman — are ready to take on the challenge. Sidy proposes a complete makeover. Martin suggests creating a backyard oasis using natural stone and low-maintenance plants. Reichman's concept divides the yard into four distinct areas to form one comfortable, outdoor living space.

Before

After a week of reviewing the plans, the Garbers select Amit Reichman to convert their large, multi-sectioned backyard into the functional, Asian-inspired garden they desire. The jumble of disjointed spaces is now tied together into a single, uncluttered landscape with plenty of room for children to play and adults to relax.

After

Reichman has brought a sense of proportion and an exotic touch to Bill and Michelle's backyard. Now they can just sit back and enjoy the view.