A Touch of Napa in Cherry Hills Village Enhances this Modern Farmhouse

Terraces, fountains and sun-loving plants transform a Colorado landscape.

2 hours ago

Irene Rawlings,

Courtyard Every element—from the placement of stone and water to the color palette of the plantings—works in harmony. Native and ornamental plantings soften the lines of the home, creating a seamless transition between built forms and natural setting. | Photo: Graham Johnson

When Walt and Patricia Singer moved from Northern California to Cherry Hills Village, they found a house in a neighborhood they loved. The home, built by Chalet Custom Homes, blends modern farmhouse style with traditional details.

“The house had wonderful architectural character, but the landscape hadn’t been developed,” says Philip Steinhauer, owner and CEO of Centennial, Colorado-based Designscapes Colorado. “It was a great opportunity to design the gardens so they truly complement the home.”

Water falls from the stone structure that houses the spa. | Photo: Graham Johnson

From the beginning, the Singers had a clear vision for how the property should function. “We wanted a space where every day feels like a retreat,” Walt says, “somewhere the kids could run freely, yet still elegant and connected to the house.” The goal was not only beauty but also livability.

The front courtyard sets the tone upon arrival, with antique sugar kettle fountains flanking the entry. Their gentle trickle mingles with the scent of boxwood, catmint and lavender. Wing walls guide the eye inward, and slender birch trees frame the approach. It is quietly reminiscent of California wine country, an intentional nod to the Singers’ years in Northern California. Says Steinhauer, “We wanted the entry to have that relaxed Napa Valley feeling—simple materials, soft plantings and water that welcomes you in.”

The pool area (on the north side of the home) has a serene palette of shade-tolerant plantings. | Photo: Graham Johnson

Out back, water and stone define the landscape. The pool anchors the garden and is surrounded by perennials, ornamental grasses and carefully chosen shrubs. A copper fountain adds subtle movement and sound. “Water features create rhythm, draw the eye, and invite pause,” says Steinhauer. “The key is getting the look and sound right so they don’t overpower the space.” Terraces step gently down the slope, linking the patios to the gardens.

Paths wind through layered plantings that mix textures, colors and forms. Lavender, catmint, moneywort and ornamental garlic weave through boxwoods and grasses. Pockets of penstemon, geranium, vinca and hydrangea soften the poolside plantings. The palette—fragrant and sun-loving—echoes wine country gardens, where structure and informality coexist comfortably. “Our goal was for the planting to feel curated but not stiff,” Steinhauer says. “It’s about balance and creating a garden that breathes.”

Designscapes Colorado created small colorful vignettes to please the eye. | Photo: Graham Johnson

Every detail is intentional. The design honors the home’s whitewashed cedar and European touches while offering multiple spots to enjoy the landscape throughout the day. A small vegetable garden (much loved by Walt) adds both charm and function.

The pool terrace is the centerpiece of the family’s outdoor life. A raised spa (built with stone that echoes materials used inside the home) strengthens the connection between interior and exterior spaces. The pool area quickly became another of Walt’s favorite spots. “I love sitting by the waterfall and watching the kids play on the sun deck,” he says.

A glimpse into the garden from the front courtyard. | Photo: Graham Johnson

“It’s exactly the kind of family space we wanted.” Evenings bring another ritual: “We’ll sit by the outdoor fireplace with a glass of wine,” he adds. “You can hear the copper fountain near the dining area … It’s incredibly relaxing.” For Steinhauer, that sense of everyday enjoyment was the ultimate goal. “A great landscape isn’t just beautiful,” he says. “It’s a place where people naturally want to spend time.”

Fountain “Water and color were very important for the homeowners,” says Philip Steinhauer of Designscapes Colorado.

Backyard The pool is the centerpiece of the backyard. Understated outdoor living areas were designed for quiet moments as well as family gatherings. The lawn carries through the geometric, poured-in-place pavers.