Luxury homeowners want outdoor spaces that look as curated and intentional as their interiors. Hardscaping provides the right foundation by merging natural elements with high-end structure to produce functional beauty.

Rather than settling for flat patios and standard layouts, visionary homeowners embrace bold designs that elevate their entire property. Whether you’re entertaining guests or finding personal escape, outdoor hardscape installations shape moments with elegance.

Elevated Designs

Elevation reshapes backyards with dynamic movement and visual depth. Options such as stone staircases that wind up a gentle slope, slides that sweep down into a warm pool, and waterfall-fed showers built into a hillside all create destination points that surprise and delight guests. Elevated entertainment designs are an amazing hardscaping design option for luxury homes because they introduce visual drama while maximizing space.

Tiered lounging platforms can separate spaces naturally while maintaining fluid transitions between levels. Instead of fencing, homeowners may use height differences to define entertainment zones, quiet nooks, or play areas. The result feels expansive without adding square footage, offering the illusion of multiple outdoor rooms stitched together seamlessly.

Fire and Water Features

Luxury landscapes often spotlight the duality of fire and water. Consider a sleek fire trough lining the edge of a black-tiled infinity pool or a flame-lit fountain cascading into a reflective basin that glows after sunset. A combined fire and water installation is an amazing hardscaping design option for luxury homes because it unifies elegance with functionality.

Fire and water elements expand utility beyond daylight hours. Guests stay longer when warm flames take over after dark, while flowing water brings calm during the heat of the day. Together, they transform an ordinary backyard into a sensory-rich destination made for relaxation, entertainment, and visual storytelling.

Outdoor Entertainment Hubs

Hardscaped entertaining zones elevate backyard hosting to a fine art. Built-in stone bars stocked with chilled drinks, chef-grade grill stations, and shaded dining terraces allow guests to move freely without returning indoors. Some homeowners may install sunken lounges with gas firepits at the center, creating a cozy amphitheater-style gathering space.

You can prepare full meals in a luxury outdoor kitchen. Pizza ovens, refrigeration drawers, and slab countertops transform meal prep into a high-end experience. Surrounding hardscape elements such as stone flooring, lighting, and heating systems support every moment from cocktail hour to late-night conversations.

Sculptural and Statement Elements

Some hardscaping serves as art. Oversized cut stone benches, laser-cut metal archways, and granite walls with built-in lighting showcase craftsmanship while functioning as seating or support. Designers often select polished basalt, honed limestone, or corten steel to create contrast against the softer elements of grass or water.

Statement pieces often anchor an entire layout. A freestanding tower, a vertical succulent wall, or a dry creek bed flowing under a stone bridge transforms a space into an architectural gallery.

Luxury hardscaping transforms outdoor spaces into lasting expressions of personality and taste. Design choices that use elevation, sensory contrast, and sculptural form create a unique outdoor destination.

The post 4 Amazing Hardscaping Design Options for Luxury Homes appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.

A well-placed mirror can do more than reflect a pretty room; it can open up tight spaces, balance natural light, and add an intentional touch to any interior. From oversized hallway panels to subtle powder room accents, mirrors have the power to boldly enhance a space or quietly elevate it. Here are five tips for choosing the right mirror for your space.

1. Match the Mirror to the Purpose

Mirrors should serve a specific role, not just act as decorative filler. A bathroom vanity mirror, for example, needs to offer clarity and proportion. By contrast, a hallway or entryway mirror can afford to be bold and architectural, creating drama while visually expanding narrow areas.

Always ask: What is this mirror going to do for the space?

2. Frame Style Should Echo the Room

A mirror’s frame doesn’t need to match your fixtures exactly, but it should speak the same design language. Instead of focusing solely on color, think in terms of material, finish, and weight. A delicate vintage frame might look out of place next to a monolithic stone fireplace, whereas a simple metal frame or frameless design can offer just the right amount of contrast.

Ornate frames tend to work best in spaces with rich textures, layered fabrics, or traditional millwork, where they feel cohesive rather than overbearing.

3. Think in Layers

Mirrors shouldn’t always be a standalone feature. Layering mirrors with lighting, art, and furnishings can create depth and intention, especially in larger or more formally styled rooms. Picture a grand floor mirror flanked by sconces in a walk-in closet, or a pair of mirrored panels in a dining room reflecting candlelight.

This layered approach mirrors broader design trends, such as the resurgence of mixed materials, textured finishes, and warm-toned wood flooring.

4. Don’t Forget Wall Depth and Treatment

Wall surfaces influence how a mirror looks and how it’s perceived. Mounted on drywall, a mirror may feel flush and clean-lined. Against paneled wood or textured stone, however, a deeper or beveled design tends to offer better contrast.

On richly layered walls, ultra-thin mirrors may disappear altogether. Choosing one with enough presence keeps it from getting visually lost.

5. Be Strategic With Sunlight

Mirrors can enhance natural light, but careful placement is crucial. A mirror positioned opposite a window will brighten a room, but it can also intensify direct sunlight, bouncing rays onto nearby flooring. Over time, this added exposure can lead to fading or discoloration, especially with wood surfaces.

To avoid issues related to sun damage and hardwood floors, track how sunlight moves through the room at different times of day before committing to placement. Try propping the mirror up temporarily and checking for strong reflected light in midday or afternoon hours. Even a slight angle adjustment can help preserve your floors while still amplifying natural brightness.

Style That Reflects Intention

Mirrors shape the energy, proportions, and flow of a room, particularly in larger homes where design decisions are highly visible. These five tips for choosing the right mirror for your space will help you move beyond basic choices and into design that feels deliberate.

When you’re stuck between two sizes, choose the larger one. A mirror that’s slightly too big generally looks more refined than one that’s too small.

The post 5 Tips for Choosing the Right Mirror for Your Space appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.

We once lived in the southern California  mountains of Big Bear Lake, and eventually owned two homes there. One was a smaller home on the slopes of Bear Mountain; the second a much larger home between Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. So many fond memories were built in thos mountain.

Escaping to the serenity of a mountain home can be a dream come true for many–as it was for us. Nestled amidst nature, these homes offer a unique blend of tranquility and adventure, presenting a lifestyle substantially different from the hustle and bustle of city living.

However, purchasing a mountain home involves careful consideration. To make an informed decision and ensure a smooth buying experience, you should explore what you need to know before buying a mountain home.

Consider Proximity and Convenience

Living in a secluded environment may be appealing, but it’s important to ensure you will still have easy access to healthcare facilities, grocery stores, and other necessities. Look for homes within a reasonable distance of town centers or daily conveniences. At the very least, seek out places offering reliable transportation options to nearby towns.

Additionally, remember that some mountain roads can be tricky to navigate, especially in winter. Ensure the property you select has well-maintained roads and, if necessary, services for snow removal.

Evaluate Travel and Commute

The most important thing you need to know before buying a mountain home is what your daily travel and commute will look like. Mountainous regions often require more time for travel due to winding roads and potentially hazardous conditions, particularly in winter.

If the home is particularly remote, a potentially quick trip could quickly turn into a long, arduous journey. Balancing the allure of a secluded mountain home with the practicalities of your everyday needs is a key part of making a successful purchase.

Think About Hidden Additional Costs

Be prepared to deal with hidden costs that may not be immediately obvious. These can range from higher utility bills to heating demands in winter or increased maintenance costs for problems like weather-related wear and tear or wildlife intrusions.

For example, if you ever need to replace the window in your mountain home for a remodel, you’ll have to fork out the cash for high-quality windows that can withstand the weather and pressure conditions. Furthermore, some communities have homeowner association (HOA) fees that cover shared services like road maintenance and snow removal. These fees can add up over time, so it’s crucial that you factor them into your budget.

Inspect the Home’s Structure

Mountain homes are often subject to extreme weather conditions, from heavy snowfall to high winds, affecting the building’s stability. Look for any signs of structural damage throughout the property, such as cracks in the walls, sagging floors, or doors and windows that don’t close properly, as these indicate serious underlying issues.

Additionally, pay close attention to the roof, as it is one of the most critical parts of a home facing mountain weather. Ensure the roof is in good condition, properly insulated, and has an appropriate pitch for shedding snow. If possible, hire a local home inspector who’s familiar with the specific challenges of mountain homes and have them perform a comprehensive examination.

Understand the Lifestyle

The mountains offer a slower pace of life, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fishing. However, they also bring challenges like potential isolation, limited nightlife, and occasional inconveniences like power outages or closed roads. Interactions with local wildlife can be thrilling and challenging, as animals like deer or bears can wander into your property.

If you relish solitude and the outdoors, the mountain lifestyle may be perfect. Before buying a mountain home, spend some time in the area to understand if the lifestyle suits you.

The post Things You Need To Know Before Buying a Mountain Home appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.

The garage isn’t solely for storing cars and forgotten items. It should be a calculated area that increases the value of your household. If your garage seems to lack function, read on. Here are some ways to repurpose your garage into an efficient space.

Ultimate Mechanic Workshop

If you have a deep passion for tinkering with cars, bikes, and other mechanical projects, consider transforming your garage into the ultimate mechanic’s workshop. Start by installing a top-of-the-line workbench with sturdy drawers and a spacious countertop for all your tools and equipment. Add ample storage options, such as wall-mounted cabinets and shelving units.

Then, apply a durable and protective floor coating that guards against oil spills, grease stains, and other potential damage. A well-equipped workshop will be the perfect haven to indulge in your mechanical passions and bring your projects to life.

Inviting Guest Space

Transform your garage into a beautiful, welcoming guest space for family and friends. This additional living area can feature a cozy bedroom, a bathroom that’s complete with luxury amenities, and a quaint sitting area. Guests can enjoy the privacy this secluded garage makeover provides.

Indoor Playground for Kids

When the weather gets cold, the playground outside doesn’t seem as appealing. Bring the fun inside with an indoor playground full of your kids’ favorite activities.

Start with a cushioned floor that will support any falls. Then, add fun amenities. You can incorporate plenty of storage, plush cushions to jump around on, or a cozy swing.

Take advantage of the vertical space by adding ladders, a short climbing wall, stairs, and different levels for your kids to explore. Your children may also love the addition of a slide for easy access to the ground level.

Personal At-Home Gym

Fitness enthusiasts can bid farewell to gym memberships and embrace a bespoke workout studio that brings the epitome of personalized fitness to the comfort of their own homes. Build an at-home gym in the garage with an array of cutting-edge equipment thoughtfully chosen to elevate your workout experience.

Select from an assortment of stylish flooring options. Then, elevate the ambiance further with a tailor-made sound system to savor your favorite songs as you exercise in your exclusive workout space.

Art Studio

Is there an art form you’ve always wanted to try but have never had the space to store the equipment? Or perhaps you love to create, but the house doesn’t supply you with the room you need to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Creative minds can let their imagination soar in their very own art studio. Storage for supplies, ample workspace, and a soundproofed area for peaceful concentration will make your garage the perfect creative oasis.

Bonus Living Space

Transform your garage into a captivating living space, perfect for stylish entertainment. Envision a cozy lounge area adorned with a luxurious sofa and a sleek entertainment system. The modern finishes infuse an air of elegance and sophistication.

Whether you’re hosting a movie night with friends or relishing in a cocktail hour, your garage-turned-luxurious den is bound to become the talk of the town. Embrace the endless possibilities of this exquisite haven.

These ways to repurpose the room will spark inspiration and guarantee the garage is an efficient space. What luxurious design do you have in mind?

The post 6 Ways To Repurpose Your Garage for an Efficient Space appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.

Home security measures provide peace of mind, protect loved ones, and safeguard the significant possessions within it. However, achieving the right balance between aesthetics and safety in home security can be a challenge. Learn more about these security measures, both exterior and interior, and how to deploy them without compromising your home’s appeal in our quick guide to home security and balancing aesthetics and safety.

Exterior Security: Fences, Doors, and Security Gates

The first line of defense in any home security system is your property’s perimeter. Fences can serve as an effective deterrent for intruders while adding to your home’s appeal. Choose sturdy designs that are difficult to climb over and complement the overall look of your house. Stone, brick, and cast iron are all great options. Jagged coping or stone caps or spear-shaped cast iron spires can help to deter intruders from trying to climb over.

Security doors offer many benefits, and gates play a crucial role in home protection. They should be robust and durable, yet blend seamlessly with your home’s exterior design. Choose steel security doors and security storm doors that you can customize with coating colors and designs to blend with your home’s architectural style while bolstering defenses against intruders. Consider options with steel framing and advanced locking systems for added security.

Lighting and Motion Detectors

An artfully lit exterior can add significantly to your home’s aesthetic appeal as it also deters potential intruders. Strategic placement of lighting fixtures can highlight your home’s architectural features and landscape while illuminating dark corners where intruders might hide. Motion detectors add an extra layer of security, triggering lights, or alarms when they detect movement.

Interior Security: Windows and Alarm Systems

Security does not stop at your front door. Inside, consider installing security windows. These windows are tougher than standard glass, resisting break-ins while allowing natural light to flood your home.

Alarm systems, including fire and carbon monoxide detectors, are essential for your household’s safety. Modern systems offer sleek designs that can fit into any home décor, and you can remotely control most of them through an associated app on your phone.

Security Cameras: Eyes Where You Need Them

Security cameras have become more sophisticated and less obtrusive over the years. You can place them strategically to monitor key areas of your home, both inside and out. Many modern cameras blend seamlessly with their surroundings, ensuring they maintain your home’s aesthetic.

Integrating Aesthetics and Safety

Balancing aesthetics and safety, and our guide to home security, is all about integration. Choose security measures that complement your home’s design, whether it’s a sleek camera system, sophisticated alarm systems, or robust yet stylish doors and fences. By doing so, you can maintain your home’s appeal for eventual sale while ensuring its security.

The post Balancing Aesthetics & Safety: A Guide to Home Security appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.

Wondering about Luxury Home Trends for 2019? Here are some things you might want to consider in your purchase or remodel of your luxury home.

By Jennifer Karami

While the average sale price for luxury homes nationwide rose 4.7 percent annually to $1,772,000 in the fourth quarter of 2018, a few things remain constant: the kinds of features and luxury home trends  associated with high end residences.

Money can buy you a lot of things, and in luxury homes, several amenities ring universal, says Los Angeles-based agent Alec Traub.

“The higher the price point, the more features buyers expect and that desire intensifies,” he said.

If you’re looking to buy or sell a luxe abode in 2019 –or just love daydreaming about them–these are the features and luxury home trends to watch this year.

1. Privacy

“In higher price points privacy is one of the things people are expecting. If you buy a $5 million home, you don’t want to see your neighbors or have someone on the street be able to walk up to your front door. People want gates, walls and hedges, but they must be aesthetically pleasing–no big chain link fence– especially somewhere like LA where you have a lot of celebrities, which adds a whole different layer to it as well.”

2. Smart Security

“In addition to the privacy element, there is the security element. Most homes these days on the higher end allow you to remotely control everything from lights, fireplace, pool, air conditioning and security cameras from an iPad or a phone. It’s something that’s almost come to be expected. Rather than, ‘that would be nice,’ it’s become, ‘that needs to have it.’

We’re also seeing super high tech safes hidden in closets for valuables like expensive jewelry, watches or purses. Or they’re being displayed in a way where you can’t just open a drawer and take something. You have to open up your closet drawer like you unlock your phone.”

3. Smaller Pools

“A pool is expected, but these days, no one really wants a big deep pool taking up the whole backyard. Instead, my clients are looking for smaller plunge pools that are almost glorified jacuzzis. While houses have been built bigger and take up more space on the lot, the pool is still something people still want and expect–just less of it.”

4. Guest Suites

“Luxury buyers I’m working with this year want guest suites. It doesn’t have to be detached–it could be downstairs off the garage, or a bedroom with en-suite bathroom that can be used for a live–in nanny or maid, or friends or family who come to visit. My clients want that extra space, as well as rooms that can be a home office, as well as a gym or workout room.”

5. Upscale Design Touches

“I’ve seen an emphasis on imported finishes–but pieces imported to LA from Italy as opposed to New Jersey. In the kitchen, an obvious design choice is still Ceasarstone or quartz over granite, but also high-end appliances. A $5 million home shouldn’t have Kitchenaid or GE. Not because they’re bad, but because they don’t fit with the narrative of a luxury home. Similarly, if there are sliding doors, my clients want them to be pocket doors that disappear into wall. Those are the kinds of added touches expected in a luxury home.”

6. The Power of Two

“A lot of homes I’ve shown have a trend of two. It’s no longer one stove and oven, now it’s two stoves, two ovens, two dishwashers, two sets of washers and dryers, and all upscale, designer brands. Luxury means never waiting or having dirty clothes or dishes.”

7. Overly Customized

“There is also a risk with ultra luxury homes in that features might be too customized to fit an individual need. I’ve seen houses where a musician put in a recording studio, and a basketball player had a full court. Those are things that won’t appeal to everyone, and as a result, can negatively affect a sale.”

We keep a close eye on luxury home trends and if you feel we have missed something that is up and coming, please feel free to comment!

Author bio: Jennifer Karami is a writer at Redfin, a technology-enabled real estate brokerage. Redfin’s mission is to redefine real estate in the customer’s favor

The post 7 Luxury Home Trends for 2019 appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.

by Roberta Murphy

I have always felt such a sense of peace when I am in the garden fooling around with dirt and plants, but never gave it much thought until this morning.

I read an article today relating research that confirms my senses: Garden Dirt actually serves as an anti-depressant. And could take the place of Prozac.

I don’t suffer from depression and have never taken Prozac, but I do notice a difference in myself when I am in the garden, fooling with dirt, and daring to go barefoot (which has different research supporting the practice). I feel a delicious sense of peace and connection with the earth. It now turns out that beneficial microbes in the soil can enter the body through both breathing and our skin (Perhaps I should remove gloves more often?).

It appears that antidepressant microbes, specifically Mycobacterium vaccae, in the soil cause our cytokine levels to rise, resulting in the production of increased levels of serotonin. There may also be some evidence that the microbes help create an increase in cognitive ability and better concentration on tasks. These effects may be felt for up to 3 weeks, if current research with rats is any indication. According to the article in Gardening Know How.

“Mycobacterium antidepressant microbes in soil are also being investigated for improving cognitive function, Crohn’s disease and even rheumatoid arthritis.”

After reading this article, I can’t help but wonder how a garden might be helpful for memory care residents, or even those in assisted living of some sort. Not only would they get the gratification of growing flowers or vegetables, but it just might elevate spirits and cognition. I know a couple of elementary schools in Encinitas and Carlsbad have cultivated gardens as a learning experience for the children. Might the soil organisms also make them more attentive in class?

Makes you wonder.

I know that in an hour or so, I am going to go fool around in the garden, play in the dirt, and spread more worm castings while I’m at it. And this time,  I’m not wearing gloves!

 Want to know more?

Read more at Gardening Know How: Antidepressant Microbes In Soil: How Dirt Makes You Happy https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/antidepressant-microbes-soil.htm

The post Garden Dirt as Anti-Depressant? appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.

This gorgeous single story custom pool home in Fallbrook offers breezy 360 views plus luxurious upgrades and extras that we can only begin to describe. And more photos will follow in the next few weeks as the listing prepares to go prime time next month.

The Grounds

Sitting on almost 1.5 scenic and very private acres, you are surrounded by plumerias, flowers, fountains and palms. There is also plenty of room if one wanted a hillside grove of avocados or citrus trees.

The Pool

This photo does no justice. It’s a paradise for both adults and kids of all ages. The pool and spa are solar heated, making for year-round enjoyment of not only the montain views beyond, but the gorgeous pool, slide and grotto area.  The pool’s solar heater is less than 2 years old. The grand wooden Tiki, hidden in this pool photo (as is the slide and grotto), is included in the sale and pool equipmente is tucked aaway in its own building.

The Kitchen

The major appliances are almost new with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, LG dishwasher, Dacor Induction Cooktop (beats gas and electric!) and Dacor double oven that conveniently goes online. There is also a built-in wine fridge, newer Sharp micro, large pantry, beautiful granite surfaces and wood cabinetry.

Other Rooms

The large en suite master with fireplace, huge closet and exterior door sits at one end of the home–distant from the other two bedrooms, laundry and garage. The main living area is open with fireplace and wall-mounted television, while dining room overlooks the pool and outdoor kitchen (with huge bar, grill, cooktop and icemaker). There are also two flexible and sizable office or den areas–one off main hallway near entrance and the other off the dining area.  The 2 secondary bedrooms are large and located opposite the master bedroom. Almost new automatic interior blinds and exterior sun shades in the living area are controlled with a single programmable remote.

Upgrades

This home lives almost off the grid. 100 percent of the electricity is provided via an expansive array of solar panels on the tiled roof. The system is leased (and assumable for buyer) via Sungevity and runs $292.45 per month. The owners, who run most of the home on electricity, run a credit with SDG&E each month.  The front door has been recently inlaid with leaded glass palm trees–adding to the tropical flair.The main living areas and hallways are floored with oversized granite and the sellers are offering a credit to replace bedroom carpeting which has been much enjoyed by a couple of rescued dogs–one of whom is blind. These kind owners wear halos from the rainbow Bridge.

Extras

There are 3 outbuildings–one an original that houses pool and spa equipment and two other Tuff Sheds, recently added by the owners. One is 8 x12 and the other 12×20. And a big bonus? A really cool 4 passenger golf cart with lights and a trailer hitch that will tote garbage cans to the street.

This luxury home is truly reminds one of a home Tommy Bahama might appreciate.

The amazing price for this custom beauty? A current remarkable value range of $789,900 to 829,000 before going into the MLS, which should happen in mid-May. If you would like additional information or a private showing, please call Roberta or Scott Murphy at 877-818-8197 or 760-402-9101.

Dione Lamm may also be reached at 760-271-1162.

The post 970 N. Stage Coach Lane: Tommy Bahama Home appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.

I’ve loved the idea of a treehouse since a young kid. Never had one, but imagined how I might climb up to my hideaway and maybe stay there forever.

Am still fascinated with ideas of small homes and a treehouse, but not quite ready to actually live in such a primitive abode. Until now.

Check out this Italian treehouse, appropriately called 25 Verde–and discovered on Australia’s Outdoor Design.

And though I wonder what the building might look like 25 years from now, it is currently a very interesting and green experiment in living. Supported by industrial steel girders, the curved building supports 150 trees which not only help moderate apartment temperatures, but also filter sunlight on hot days and provide insulation on the cooler ones. The trees and greenery are supported and diversified with very large planters situated along terraces, walls and a green-roofed courtyard.

The building’s architect estimates that the 150 trees produce a whopping 150,000 liters of oxygen each hour and simultaneously absorb 200,000 liters of carbon dioxide each hour at night.

This ultra-green building also uses geithermal energy for heating and cooling and rainwater (scarce in San Diego) is recycled to water the greenery.

Would love lto see this building (and more) replicated in San Diego!

The post One Luxurious Treehouse appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.

Between Rancho Santa Fe and the beaches in Encinitas sits an irreplaceable plot of land that surely belongs to another century.

The wide and expansive rear lawn backs up to pasture, wetlands and forest beyond.  Family of deer come grazing and cows come to visit when the lawnmower is at work.

Late afternoons, it is not unusual to see colorful hot air balloons gliding across the sky–and the stars at night twinkle just a little brighter than in the surrounding suburbs. Love the ocean? Encinitas and Cardiff beaches are just a couple of miles away.

• The 4-bedroom home itself has aged gracefully–and has many possibilities for expansion and improvement.  It could truly be a decorator’s dream-come-true.
• Oversized 3-car garage and ample guest parking.
• Close to excellent public and private schools and Mira Costa College (San Elijo Campus).
• Home feels rural, but is very close to Harvest Ranch Market, fine restaurants and upscale boutiques.

Asking price is $1,350,000.

This property is not yet in the MLS, but private showing can be arranged. For additional information, call Roberta Murphy 877-818-8197 or 760-402-9101.

The post Between Rancho Santa Fe and the Beach… appeared first on Luxury Home Digest.