Transforming a Desert Landscape into a Tuscany Paradise
When the ambitious real estate couple set their sights on a property in the picturesque Sedona, Arizona, they knew they had found the canvas for their dream home. However, they needed a visionary to bring their ideas to life and create a landscape design that would seamlessly blend with the natural beauty of the desert surroundings. Enter John Leslie, the mastermind behind JSL Landscape, whose expertise and passion for design would soon transform this property into a breathtaking oasis.
From the very beginning, the goal was clear: to capture the essence of Tuscany and infuse it into the landscape while incorporating the architectural features of the house. John Leslie, Owner, Designer, and Project Manager of JSL Landscape, would orchestrate the intricate construction process, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of perfection. With a swimming pool and spa, outdoor kitchen, observation deck, fireplace, koi pond, pergola, landscape lighting, and fountains on the agenda, the challenge was set, and the journey began.
For John, the first step was to truly understand the unique shape of the landscape and the essence of the property. The clients’ vision was clear, but it took John’s expertise and creative prowess to bring it to life. Day after day, he tirelessly poured over design concepts, carefully considering the style of the house, the desired additions, and the inherent beauty of the desert landscape. After an intense month of design work, the vision became a reality—a comprehensive landscape design that embodied the spirit of Tuscany and seamlessly integrated with the natural surroundings.
Before Renovations
Yet, challenges lay ahead. The complexity and intricacy of the project demanded coordination among multiple contractors, each responsible for a specific aspect of the build. JSL Landscape took charge of masonry, lighting, irrigation, and planting, while the pool contractor handled the magnificent pool, spa, and koi pond. The general contractor, on the other hand, took charge of the outdoor kitchen, pergola, and observation deck. Coordinating these various elements, managing underground utilities, navigating excavation works, and ensuring permits and inspections were meticulously handled was no small feat. But John’s meticulous attention to detail during the planning stage ensured a harmonious and seamless progression.
Over the course of eight months, the vision unfolded before everyone’s eyes. The Mediterranean influence was beautifully maintained throughout, with the addition of Tuscan columns for the pergola and the elegant Cantera Stone gracing the pool deck. But the true pièce de résistance was the mesmerizing view of the surrounding mountains, visible from every corner of the landscape. To further enhance the enchantment, lighting was thoughtfully installed, ensuring that the outdoor space was a captivating haven for entertainment and relaxation.
John, however, knows that the construction process often brings unexpected opportunities for improvement. He encourages flexibility and open communication, allowing for adjustments and changes as the project unfolds.
"Bringing a design to life should be flexible
& fun for both the designer & the clients."
This collaborative approach fosters an atmosphere of creativity, ensuring that the final result surpasses even the wildest expectations.
Upon completion of the project, the clients celebrated their new outdoor haven, inviting John to revel in the fruits of their labor. The joy and satisfaction were palpable as guests marveled at the oasis that now adorned the previously barren landscape. Word of John’s exceptional work quickly spread, resulting in two more design and build jobs for JSL Landscape. The transformation of the backyard into a formal Tuscany paradise amidst the desert setting stands as a testament to the skill, dedication, and unwavering commitment of the entire team involved.
As the sun sets over the Tuscan-inspired landscape, casting a warm glow on the elegant columns and trickling fountains, it is evident that John Leslie and his team have achieved something truly remarkable. With their visionary design, meticulous planning, and unwavering passion, they have created an enchanting oasis where dreams come to life.
John Leslie
Owner of JSL Landscape Design Build
Sedona, Arizona
Phone: (480) 246–1400
Email: john@jsllandscape.com