Outdoor Designs That Won the Hearts of HGTV Fans

The HGTV audience has voted for their favorite outdoor designs from the 2018 Ultimate Outdoor Awards! See why they won over our HGTV fans.

The 2018 Ultimate Outdoor Awards feature some of the most stunning landscapes from all across the country. HGTV fans voted and selected their favorites in each of the 6 categories. Check out the award-winning designs and be prepared to be wowed!

People’s Pick: Gorgeous Gardens

custom waterfall

Waterfall Surrounded By Vibrant Flowers

Wanting to make full use of the lot's natural slope, the landscape architects created a custom waterfall that flows right into the koi pond. Flowers color the setting and make it feel even more enchanting.

Photo by: Morgan Howarth Photography

Morgan Howarth Photography

Surrounds Landscape Architecture + Construction in Sterling, Virginia designed this fairytale garden that is the perfect place to escape and enjoy the lush vegetation either under the pavilion or on the patio overlooking the koi pond. This space also has a custom waterfall flowing into the koi pond, creating a simply enchanting garden space.

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People’s Pick: Stunning Structures

wood pavilion with reflecting pond

Pavilion Encourages Quiet Reflection

Made from northern white-cedar and bamboo, this quiet pavilion beautifully complements its woodland surroundings. A small reflecting pond and lush vegetation all around ensure that the owners will want to sit and enjoy this space for hours.

Photo by: Jerry Finley Photography

Jerry Finley Photography

This pavilion, designed by South Carolina's J. Dabney Peeples Design Associates, beautifully accents its natural surroundings and provides the perfect spot for relaxation and meditation. The structure was designed with an Asian aesthetic that perfectly complements the colorful surrounding landscaping.

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People’s Pick: Outdoor Oasis

brick patio with trellis

Brick Path Allows for Evening Stroll

After dinner, guests can follow the brick path to an adjacent sitting area. Along the way, they'll enjoy views of fresh flowers and lovely greenery.

Photo by: Mark Pinkerton, vi360

Mark Pinkerton, vi360

The skilled team at Saratoga, California's Casa Smith Designs created this charming outdoor oasis that includes multiple spaces for entertaining. The stunning arbor provides a focal point for the outdoor retreat, while the numerous flowers seen throughout the space, enhance the garden's natural beauty.

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People’s Pick: Curb Appeal

modern home with stone and wood exterior

Modern Home in the Mountains

A polished concrete driveway sets the tone for this mountain home, striking a beautiful balance between modern design and raw natural materials. As guests follow the limestone walkway to the front of the house, they'll spy fresh greenery, stone retaining walls and a chic wood exterior.

Photo by: Grey Giraffe Photography

Grey Giraffe Photography

This home, designed by Salt Lake City's Landform Design Group, won over both HGTV Editors and our audience and it’s easy to see why. The balance between the modern architecture and natural materials is simply extraordinary. This home is not only visually beautiful, but also has elements that insure the homeowners will get out and enjoy the outdoor space.

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People’s Pick: Picturesque Landscapes

This contemporary gas fire pit is perfect to enjoy a fire and views.

Contemporary Gas Fire Pit with Stunning Views

Earth, wind and fire. We should all be so lucky to have a patio overlooking these stunning views. This contemporary gas fire pit is perfectly situated for guests to enjoy a relaxing fire on a cool night.

Photo by: Mark Scott

Mark Scott

Mark Scott Associates designed this backyard space to take in the spectacular California coast views – and that it does. Whether you are relaxing by the fire pit or taking a dip in the infinity edge swimming pool, the views are out of this world – especially at sunset.

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People’s Pick: Waterside Paradise

contemporary backyard

Cool, Multi-Level Patio Design

Tiered patios become an eye-catching design element in this backyard, creating different levels for swimming, sunbathing and catching up with friends. At the same time, soft lights illuminate the pool at night and allow the blue Pebble Sheen interior finish to really shine.

Photo by: Morgan Howarth Photography

Morgan Howarth Photography

This tranquil backyard oasis comes complete with waterfalls, a firepit and cozy seating area - perfect for summertime gatherings. This backyard getaway, designed by Surrounds Landscape Architecture + Construction, is the perfect spot for entertaining or spending a little alone time unwinding with a good read.

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Next Up

HGTV Obsessed Episode 37: John Gidding

John Gidding, host of HGTV’s new/reboot show Curb Appeal Xtreme talks about ways to update exterior spaces. Then his co-host, Rachel Taylor, shares her favorite low-cost, high-impact outdoor upgrades.

How to Paint and Replant Concrete Planters

Spring, summer, winter or fall — the easiest way to majorly boost your curb appeal (without splashing major cash) is to give your front porch planters a makeover. Follow our tips to prep the surface for paint, then plant each pot with an eye-catching combo of thriller, spiller and filler.

How to Build a Retractable Canopy

Control the shade by making your own retractable canopy. Open it up to create a shady retreat or close it to let the sun in.

How to Make a Wood Planter Box With House Numbers

Up your curb appeal with this stylish planter featuring modern house numbers and a bold color.

How to Install a Porch Railing

The right front porch railing can add a lot of curb appeal to your home and help define your home's style. Learn how to install new railing on your porch.

Outdoor Natural Gas Fire Pits

Learn all you need to know about outdoor natural gas fire pits, from design options to safety tips.

How to Build a Mandala-Style In-Ground Fire Pit

We made an in-ground fire pit, then decorate it with colored river rocks and sand to give it a mandala-inspired look.

How to Make a Raised Planter With a Trellis

Learn how to build a mobile planter box with a built-in trellis. It's perfect for a small deck or patio, and once your plants grow big and tall, the trellis can also serve as a privacy screen.

Meditation Garden Plan

Use this landscape plan to create a private garden retreat that's perfect for a little quiet time, away from the stress of daily life. We've included one simple plan with eight distinct plant lists tailored to your specific region and climate.

Propane vs. Natural Gas for a Fire Pit

Get all the info you need on propane vs. natural gas for a fire pit.

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