A MODERN ESCAPE

“A Clean Slate of Sophisication”

A backyard retreat designed for calm, connection, and everyday luxury.

The Modern Escape project was designed as a private backyard retreat where clean architectural lines meet calming natural elements. Every detail was curated to transform a standard yard into a peaceful destination for relaxation, wellness, and effortless entertaining.

At the heart of the design is a striking architectural water feature composed of smooth Santa Barbra columns and stacked stone panels. Cascading water flows gently from sculpted spillways into a bed of Mexican Beach Pebble, creating a tranquil focal point that anchors the entire outdoor space. Elevated planters crowned with sculptural succulents add vertical interest and reinforce the modern aesthetic.

Three-piece contemporary pavers extend throughout the yard, wrapping the home with a seamless walking surface that visually expands the space while maintaining a clean, structured layout. Linear planting beds soften the geometry with a curated palette of evergreen shrubs, ornamental grasses, and structured trees that provide year-round greenery and privacy.

Toward the rear of the yard, a dedicated lounge area invites conversation and connection. Modern outdoor seating surrounds a sleek fire feature, creating a warm gathering space ideal for evening relaxation. Nearby, a raised composite deck hosts a spa and sauna retreat—introducing a wellness element that elevates the entire experience of the space.

A sculptural corten steel art panel serves as a dramatic backdrop to the lawn area, adding texture and artistic character while tying together the warm tones found throughout the landscape. Strategic lighting and clean material transitions ensure the space feels cohesive both day and night.

With its blend of modern materials, tranquil water elements, and spa-inspired amenities, Modern Escape transforms the backyard into a refined sanctuary—designed for quiet moments, social gatherings, and everyday luxury.

MODERN ESCAPE

Tracy, California

Modern Minimalism, Contemporary Outdoor Living, California Casual, Low Maintenance
Softscaping
Evergreen privacy trees along the perimeter
Structured ornamental grasses and drought-tolerant plantings
Accent citrus and specimen shrubs for layered greenery
Decorative river rock ground cover in planting beds
Low-maintenance planting palette designed for year-round structure
Linear raised planter beds integrated into hardscape design
Hardscaping
Large-format contemporary concrete paver patio
Custom charcoal soldier course borders defining pathways
Clean linear paver walkways connecting all yard zones
Raised concrete planter walls with modern geometry
Integrated drainage planning within the hardscape layout
Seamless paver transitions between side yard, lounge area, and backyard lawn
Water Feature
Custom architectural water feature wall
Smooth plaster columns with stacked stone center panel
Dual cascading spillways creating tranquil water movement
Polished river rock basin with concealed plumbing
Elevated decorative planters with sculptural succulents
Outdoor Living Spaces
Modern outdoor lounge seating surrounding fire feature
Rectangular gas fire table creating a central gathering space
Raised composite deck platform for spa area
Luxury hot tub integrated into private relaxation zone
Outdoor sauna creating a wellness-focused retreat
Defined seating areas for conversation and evening entertainment
Lighting & Irrigation
Integrated landscape lighting highlighting architectural features
Accent lighting for water feature and planting beds
Drip irrigation system for planting beds and trees
Electrical access and conduit for lighting and spa equipment
Additional Features
Decorative corten steel art panel creating a focal point
Low-maintenance synthetic turf lawn area
Full perimeter privacy fencing
Spa and sauna wellness retreat zone
Modern resort-style layout designed for relaxation and entertaining
Clean architectural design with minimal maintenance requirements
$100-$150k