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February 12, 2020

The Truth about Sustainable Landscaping

by Emily Thompson

Sustainable landscapes don’t have to be ugly.  A common misnomer is that, in order to be sustainable, a landscape must be full of native plants, sticks and weed-like wildflowers.  Don’t get me wrong, there are some incredible firms designing and installing beautiful sustainable landscapes, but I also see a lot of them in our area that look great for about a month in the spring and the fall; otherwise, they look to be a mess. 

The term “native” gets thrown around a lot in the landscape world, and depending where you live, it can mean different things.  In Texas, because our state is so large (and awesome), we have a lot of different native materials that work well in some areas and not in others.  What works in the high-desert of West Texas will not work in the Piney Woods of East Texas.  Not so long ago, the DFW metroplex was a black-land prairie, and as such, most of the native plants for our region are wildflowers, low grasses and some ornamental trees.  While it is lovely to drive past and admire a field full of wildflowers, we all know they are short-lived, and after the blooms, they will blend-in with the pasture.  A great look for a farm, but not a residential landscape.

The good news is, there are a lot of adapted plant materials that will thrive in our area. Native plants can look great when used in conjunction with other adapted plant material and will not require a lot of watering (this is key).  Too many times, we see high water bills and over-watered material; if a plant looks bad, adding water should not be our first response (it’s not a cure-all for plants!).  Check the soil a couple of inches below the surface, and if it is moist, we know watering is not the issue.  With the right design, a residential landscape will contain plant material that requires little water (1-2x per week) once it is established and looks great throughout the seasons.

Here are some examples of plants that would fit into this category of adapted plants for our area that look great year-round.

Shade Trees:

                -Burr oak

                -Live oak

                -Cedar elm

Ornamental Trees:

                -Texas Mountain Laurel

                -Desert Willow

Shrubs & Vines:

                -Dwarf Palmetto

                -Rosemary

                -Crossvine

                -Chinese Wisteria

Groundcover

                -Purple Wintercreeper

                -Grey Santolina

                -Frog Fruit

Ornamental Grasses:

                -Berkeley Sedge

                -Inland Sea Oats

                -Gulf Muhly

                -Dwarf Hameln Grass

  • Burr Oak
    Photo by: Harold Rau
  • Live Oak
  • TX Mountain Laurel
  • Smoketree
  • Desert Willow
  • Dwarf Palmetto
  • Rosemary
  • Inland Sea Oats
  • Dwarf Hameln Grass
  • Crossvine
  • Berkeley Sedge
  • Purple Wintercreeper
  • Chinese Wisteria
  • Frog Fruit
  • Grey Santolina
https://aquaterraoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/live_oak_1024x1024.jpg 770 1024 Emily Thompson https://aquaterra7111.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/logo-1.png Emily Thompson2020-02-12 14:27:052020-02-12 14:27:07The Truth about Sustainable Landscaping

January 30, 2020

Award Winning Front Yard Water Feature

by Emily Thompson

We are honored to announce that we recently won an award from the Southwest Pool & Spa show. Our very own Ross Burke won the Award of Merit for Hot Tub/Spa/Water Features. The project that he designed and AquaTerra built has a very unique feature that won the recognition.

Front yards and porches are historically simple. Landscaping and pavers usually round out the front displaying beautiful curb appeal. This project, however, surprises guests and onlookers. The homeowner wanted an outdoor space to serve as an extension of their formal dining room, as well as, a semi private front courtyard space to for the family to enjoy.  They wanted a space to enjoy their front yard and interact with neighbors, while feeling comfortable and not exposed to the street. The layered, overlapping elements of the design are intended to blend with architectural design of the home. Additionally, we wanted to continue the use of stucco, steel, and ipe wood as seen on the home’s façade.

We didn’t stop there with the creativity and scope of the project. The backyard design was intended to be a modern pool with outdoor fire pit space where the family could gather. The landscaping is kept minimal to allow room for young kids to play. Trees along the back fence screen the view of neighboring properties, and lime green Sunshine Ligustrum offer a pop of color. Synthetic turf was selected to provide a clean play surface for kids, while allowing evergreen color.

https://aquaterraoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/IMG_4240-scaled.jpg 2560 1920 Emily Thompson https://aquaterra7111.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/logo-1.png Emily Thompson2020-01-30 19:21:052020-02-20 16:55:34Award Winning Front Yard Water Feature

January 17, 2020

Tal Thevenot and AJ Kumaran Q&A

by Emily Thompson
Read more
https://aquaterraoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/5631-Caladium-Drive_HR-1116.jpg 5055 7474 Emily Thompson https://aquaterra7111.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/logo-1.png Emily Thompson2020-01-17 19:20:192020-02-18 19:26:42Tal Thevenot and AJ Kumaran Q&A

November 13, 2019

Trending Now: Luxury Pools + CEO Tal Thevenot

by Emily Thompson

If you’ve ever traveled and experienced that “I never want to leave” feeling, then you will understand why so many people are requesting backyards that reflect certain resorts. We were recently featured in a Luxury Pools’ article about what is trending now. Our principle designer and CEO, Tal Thevenot, discusses that when clients bring resort photos as the inspiration for their backyard, he realizes that they are craving the resort lifestyle and feeling. That is then what the designers are challenged with when creating new designs for each client. A few of the photos below are from past projects that have had a sure theme of a specific resort and how they were brought to reality for the client.

As always, it is an honor to have our work noticed and featured, and we are thankful to have been recognized in this publication!

Looking for a resort feel only feet away from your living room? Check out more of our work here, and call us today to get your dream backyard started!

https://aquaterraoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/D_D_6317.jpg 1798 2500 Emily Thompson https://aquaterra7111.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/logo-1.png Emily Thompson2019-11-13 14:05:252020-02-20 16:56:43Trending Now: Luxury Pools + CEO Tal Thevenot

September 20, 2019

Landscaping During the Texas Fall

by Emily Thompson

Written by: Emma Bishop

The temperatures are finally cooling down enough for us to get outside and enjoy our patios and decks. The autumn weather is also perfect for sprucing up the landscape. Now’s the time to install that firepit or outdoor kitchen you’ve always wanted.

Fall is also the ideal time to plant trees in Texas. New trees do well when the soil temperature is above 40 degrees, which is year-round in much of the state. The root systems of balled and burlapped trees can recover from transplanting in the fall. They also have time to develop roots before beginning growth in the spring.

But there are some things you should consider before heading to the nursery. The most important consideration is where you intend to plant your tree. On a residential lot, trees should be planted at least 10 feet from any foundation to allow the trunks and root systems to grow. Be aware of any overhead obstructions, such as utility lines and the boughs of other trees.

Next, consider what kind of tree you want — shade, fruit-bearing, or ornamental.

For shade trees, the live oak is bough and branches above all others. It is the most commonly planted tree in Texas because it grows well virtually anywhere in the state. But live oaks need a lot of space. They can grow up to 40 feet tall and spread their branches 75 feet.

Other Native Shade Trees

  • Cedar elm. This is a very hardy tree that tolerates drought well and thrives in nearly any soil.
  • Texas ash. Because this is a rather small tree, it’s ideal for small properties or side yards. It delivers brilliant colors in autumn.
  • Black cherry. This native is a medium-sized tree, which makes it a good candidate for suburban yards. It produces fragrant white blossoms.

Fruit Bearing Trees

  • Pecan. This is the official state tree because it thrives in most areas, produces abundant shade, and drops tasty, nutritious nuts in the fall.
  • Persimmon. These are native across Texas, but many homeowners choose the Japanese varieties from nurseries. The tree is insect and disease resistant.
  • Peaches, nectarines, and plums. These so-called “stone” trees can produce abundant fruit when properly cared for. The chief enemy of a good crop is a late freeze.

Ornamentals for Texas

  • Crepe Myrtle. These tough, durable ornamentals can be kept at shrub-size or grown to 20 feet tall. Their blooms come in a variety of colors and often blossom twice a year.
  • Redbud. You can find a variety that will thrive in any part of Texas. These trees are early bloomers in spring and do so in brilliant bursts of red.
  • Rusty Blackhaw Viburnum. This native does well in most parts of Texas and only grows to about 18 feet, making it ideal for home landscaping. It delivers large clusters of blossoms in spring.

Know your needs before you buy. Is the area where you intend to plant shady or sunny? What kind of soil do you have? Any well-established, reputable nursery will have people who can help you make the right choice of tree. And nearly every Texas county has an Extension Service office.

When You’re Ready to Plant

  • Handle your tree only by the root ball, never the trunk.
  • Dig a hole that gives the root ball 6 inches of clearance on all sides and is only as deep as the root ball.
  • Backfill the hole with the same soil you took out — never substitute soil.
  • Water thoroughly.
  • Do not use fertilizer until early spring or you risk burning the tree.
  • Mulch around the base to preserve moisture.
  • Water thoroughly every seven to 10 days. Overwatering can damage your tree.

You should also be aware of what trees to avoid. The black walnut tree secretes a toxin that will kill nearby plants and flowers. It’s also incredibly messy. Other messy trees that will drop leaves and junk all over your hardscapes? Cottonwoods and mimosas. Both of these are also brittle with weak root systems.

The right trees are a long-term investment that can enhance the beauty and value of your home. Care for them wisely, and they will return your investment many times over.

Need some help with your landscape design? Here at AquaTerra we strive to be a single source solution for our client’s outdoor needs. Contact us, we’re here to help you have the most beautiful landscape on the block.

Emma Bishop is a lifestyle and design writer, and mother of two beautiful girls. She is a social butterfly and loves to entertain guests at home with beautifully decorated spaces for any occasion.


https://aquaterraoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/fall-tree.jpg 624 832 Emily Thompson https://aquaterra7111.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/logo-1.png Emily Thompson2019-09-20 13:02:262019-09-20 13:02:28Landscaping During the Texas Fall
Midcentury modern style water feature custom pool and rain curtain design by Randy Angell built by AquaTerra Outdoors

April 4, 2018

Collaborative Outdoor Design Brings Recognition

by Heather Bloem

Often times, many designers struggle working together, but for Randy Angell of Randy Angell Designs and Tal Thevenot, CEO and designer here at AquaTerra, it couldn’t be a better working relationship. The Dallas-based outdoor design executives have more than made a name for themselves working solo in the industry. Thriving on high expectations and innovative design, Randy and Tal challenge each other in a fun, healthy way. As you can see, together they continue to make waves and the final results are nothing short of breathtaking!

Midcentury modern style outdoor design water feature custom pool and rain curtain design by Randy Angell built by AquaTerra Outdoors

Designed by Randy Angell Designs, built by AquaTerra Outdoors, photograph by Wade Griffith.

The Vision Behind the Design

Tal managed AquaTerra’s flawless buildout of Randy’s innovative design for this McKinney estate. Working side by side, the vision was to create a family paradise with minimal boundaries from the indoors out! The modern outdoor design includes a large pool with a lap lane, spa and water features, an outdoor living room with fireplace and tv, and an outdoor kitchen and bar with surrounding seating terraces. When designing the space, RAD was strategic in showcasing the home’s spanning greenbelt views. The stunning 6ft tall rain curtain further marries the two spaces by anchoring the surrounding structure and framing the landscape.

Midcentury modern style outdoor design water feature custom pool and rain curtain design by Randy Angell built by AquaTerra Outdoors

Photograph by Wade Griffith. design by Randy Angell, build by AquaTerra Outdoors, as featured in Pool and Spa Magazine.

 

What’s Next for the Outdoor Design Team

Attention to design and quality is what earned this project the cover of Pool and Spa News, and is a promise delivered upon with every project we embark on. Congratulations on a well-deserved cover feature, Randy and Tal! We’re counting down the days to share the outdoor design duo’s latest project currently underway in the North Dallas suburb, Lakes on Legacy. Follow us on Instagram to catch a glimpse of this upcoming modern beauty’s progress and final reveal! Read the full PSN story, here.

Midcentury modern style outdoor design water feature custom pool and rain curtain design by Randy Angell built by AquaTerra Outdoors

Modern outdoor environment designed by Randy Angell Designs, built by AquaTerra Outdoors. Photograph by Wade Griffith.

https://aquaterraoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/6445-Lost-Pines_HR-33-2.jpg 1179 1766 Heather Bloem https://aquaterra7111.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/logo-1.png Heather Bloem2018-04-04 12:28:532019-05-06 15:17:47Collaborative Outdoor Design Brings Recognition

January 8, 2018

Benefits of Selecting a Design + Build + Management Firm

by Heather Bloem

Why should you select a Design + Build + Management firm?

With nearly 20 years of experience in Design + Build + Management, AquaTerra passionately believes that a team who covers all three bases is the best and most effective choice for any project. Here are our top 6 reasons why selecting a one-stop shop is a great way to go.

  1. TEAMWORK: When all aspects of a project are managed by AquaTerra, everyone has the same goal.  Our entire team is fully informed on what success looks like in terms of meeting and exceeding client expectations.  The reality of a large scale project is that a hiccup or two is likely to occur. However, when everyone is on the same page, solution’s occur in real time and results happen faster.

design + build management team

  1. ACCOUNTABILITY: AquaTerra is accountable for EVERYTHING from soup to nuts.  When the same team designs and builds the project, there is no question of who is accountable for design, details, schedule, quality and process.  Furthermore, the customer has a single point of contact, which critical if delivering excellence is a priority.  And it’s always our priority.
  2. DEDICATION:  Your outcomes are our best endorsements!  We take a great deal of pride in what we do and are devoted to enduring quality. We believe in Design + Build + Maintenance and we are dedicated to the longevity and beauty in each and every project.  The management & maintenance aspect of our delivery system allows us to catch  the smallest of mistakes and we are also able to ensure excellence by keeping any fine details from falling through the cracks.

Completed design + build backyard project

  1. EXPERTISE: Having a team of first rate experts in their field is our greatest asset.  They are the heart and soul of the company and champions of excellence.  At AquaTerra, we can offer our clients best-in-class experts in design, build and management, which is a fairly unique offering and a central factor for timeless outdoor spaces.

euclid front landscape design + build

  1. COLLABORATION: By working with a one-stop-shop, the design-build process is far more efficient and dramatically accelerates the process. For example, our clients avoid having the typical repetitive meetings that are required by the architect, general contractor and design consultants.  Collaboration results in less time wasted and lower fees for our clients.  Additionally and importantly, a design-build client retains more creative control of their project.
  2. SAVINGS: Based on our experience and analysis, we believe a unified design-build process can save you more than 10% in overall expenses.  Reason being, a firm like AquaTerra pass along our efficiencies of scale and teamwork along to our customers.  By sharing operating costs among the 3 branches of the firm, we can lower cost, mitigate general conditions, and lower design fees and construction costs.   

Given the benefits of working with a Design + Build + Management firm, why would anyone approach an important project in a piecemeal approach?  

https://aquaterra7111.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/logo-1.png 0 0 Heather Bloem https://aquaterra7111.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/logo-1.png Heather Bloem2018-01-08 17:50:162018-01-08 17:50:16Benefits of Selecting a Design + Build + Management Firm
succulent container gardens

June 23, 2017

Bring on the Sun with Heat-Loving Succulent Container Gardens

by Travis Cisneros

As we all know, many Texas landscapes have a spot where the sun beats down nearly all day. If we couple that with the reflected heat that often accompanies that sunlight, it is easy to understand why traditional container plants like flowering annuals struggle to survive. Let’s discuss some tips and tricks on how to create successful succulent container gardens.

Find the Right Location

Finding the right spot may sound easy: full sun.  However, southern sun exposure is best for sun loving succulents. Your plants may get some relief if there is a spot that gets a couple of hours of shade a day.  Try to avoid western exposed gardens. If you have a western exposed spot, then the toughest of succulents are a must.

Find a Good Container

This is where you can get creative! Most any type of container, pot or material can be used just make sure it has holes for drainage. Size is key with succulents. Make sure there is 2-5 inches of soil between the plant and edge of container.

Good Soil is Key

While succulents are fairly low-maintenance, they all must have extremely well-drained soil or they will rot. A good basic succulent soil can be made by mixing equal parts sand, potting soil and perlite.

Choose Your Plants

Check each succulent’s exposure requirement, making sure it is suitable for full sun. Plants like agave, cactuses and euphorbias, succulents like ‘Blue Elf’ aloe, common sotol, elephant bush, Mexican fence post and slipper plant flourish in containers in hot, full sun.

Planting and Care

Succulents of the same species can be planted singly or in groups of three, creating a simple yet dramatic statement. Alternatively, you can group several types of succulents, creating pleasing color and texture contrasts. When grown in containers, succulents need a monthly application during the growing season, in spring and summer, of a low-nitrogen fertilizer. An easy way to determine when it’s time to water is by sticking your finger all the way into the soil. The soil should be barely moist, almost dry, before you water it again. Water until it runs out the bottom through the drainage hole.

More Information

You can read more about this topic in this article featured on Houzz. One of our images of a succulent container garden that we designed and built was featured in this article as well as many other great inspirational images.  In addition to the great images, the article goes into more detail about the planning and design process of succulent container gardens.

Tal Thevenot in Frisco, TX on Houzz

When you are ready to begin planning your landscape project contact us for all your design, construction and maintenance needs.

https://aquaterraoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Succulent-feature.jpg 280 480 Travis Cisneros https://aquaterra7111.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/logo-1.png Travis Cisneros2017-06-23 13:18:352019-08-14 19:30:53Bring on the Sun with Heat-Loving Succulent Container Gardens

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