Janet Butler
The promise of deep, rich green meets you first, as you wend your way down the road entering this Nashville estate; perhaps that promise is most eloquent in the profuse native grass, waving in a warm breeze. But you’re soon to get surprises, too, in this design by Page|Duke Landscaping — because you’re about to enter a series of contemporary outdoor “rooms” that blend seamlessly with one another and with the modern residence they complement. The home itself, reminiscent of Prairie elements in stone, is flanked by shrubs and graceful trees that provide both shade and privacy, playing off the open expanses of glass. Move down a magnificent set of concrete steps that seem to float on a sea of native grass, and you discover the first treasure — down a set of terraced steps, a gleaming pool.
The pool is only one aspect of these outdoor rooms, however; to the side, the al fresco table and chairs invite a quick meal, while a few steps from the central pool area, another small seating group is perfect for intimate chats. A second outdoor seating area is sheltered beneath a slatted overhang, sporting a ceiling fan to keep the breezes cool. Trees in wood grain planters add a feathery lightness to the deck area, an airy contrast with rectangular lines of stone around them. Amble down small, divergent stone or mulch paths that lead to other mini “rooms” as well — or just relax in a white poolside lounger, with a rolling lawn stretching before you in peaceful splendor. Either way, the feeling is casual, cool, and green in this sumptuous Nashville yard, made for enjoyment and entertaining ease.
