A small wooden deck originally anchored the backyard, which has since been transformed into a larger social area. “We wanted something that was sunken into the earth that would feel like you’re enveloped by the surroundings,” Michael says. In order to achieve this, he installed a concrete retaining wall that's level with the soil above it, so foliage will gradually grow into the living space. This feature creates an almost ruin-like feeling and a direct connection to the surrounding landscaping.
A small wooden deck originally anchored the backyard, which has since been transformed into a larger social area. “We wanted something that was sunken into the earth that would feel like you’re enveloped by the surroundings,” Michael says. In order to achieve this, he installed a concrete retaining wall that's level with the soil above it, so foliage will gradually grow into the living space. This feature creates an almost ruin-like feeling and a direct connection to the surrounding landscaping.
You and Me Indoor Outdoor Ping Pong Table, $2,680–$3,370 at the Dwell Store through December 7, 2015

There are ping pong tables, and then there is the You and Me Ping Pong Table from RS Barcelona. This finely crafted table is a departure from typical ping pong tables—it is made of steel, high density HPL, and is supported by elegant iroko wood legs. The table includes a convenient drawer for storing balls and paddles, and even the net when not in use. 

Regular price: $3,350–$4,490
You and Me Indoor Outdoor Ping Pong Table, $2,680–$3,370 at the Dwell Store through December 7, 2015 There are ping pong tables, and then there is the You and Me Ping Pong Table from RS Barcelona. This finely crafted table is a departure from typical ping pong tables—it is made of steel, high density HPL, and is supported by elegant iroko wood legs. The table includes a convenient drawer for storing balls and paddles, and even the net when not in use. Regular price: $3,350–$4,490
The deck serves as a vantage point for admiring the California lilacs, manzanitas, and other native plants on the property.
The deck serves as a vantage point for admiring the California lilacs, manzanitas, and other native plants on the property.
Pacific Northwest: 2.ink Studio 

A respected wine-growing region, the Willamette Valley is known for its mild and wet weather. For a house overlooking a steep ravine in Portland, Oregon, landscape architects Melinda Graham and Jonathan Beaver of 2.ink Studio sourced hyperlocal plants from the Valley. Bracken, sword, and deer ferns border the concrete-and-stone retaining walls and the walkway lined with Preto Carvaõ Basalt and brushed stainless steel.
Pacific Northwest: 2.ink Studio A respected wine-growing region, the Willamette Valley is known for its mild and wet weather. For a house overlooking a steep ravine in Portland, Oregon, landscape architects Melinda Graham and Jonathan Beaver of 2.ink Studio sourced hyperlocal plants from the Valley. Bracken, sword, and deer ferns border the concrete-and-stone retaining walls and the walkway lined with Preto Carvaõ Basalt and brushed stainless steel.
CP Harbour House is a vacation home outside of Toronto designed by MJ | Architecture with a large, bed-like swing hanging on the tree-surrounded deck.

Photo courtesy of Lorne Bridgman
CP Harbour House is a vacation home outside of Toronto designed by MJ | Architecture with a large, bed-like swing hanging on the tree-surrounded deck. Photo courtesy of Lorne Bridgman
The northern facade, which faces the water, takes in the view via double-height windows in the main living room, plus terraces punched into the second floor.
The northern facade, which faces the water, takes in the view via double-height windows in the main living room, plus terraces punched into the second floor.
A Nelson Saucer Pendant Lamp by George Nelson hangs over the dining table with Eames Molded Plastic armchairs to compliment the surrounding set of chairs.
A Nelson Saucer Pendant Lamp by George Nelson hangs over the dining table with Eames Molded Plastic armchairs to compliment the surrounding set of chairs.