GATHERING HAVEN
This Lake St. Louis outdoor living space was designed for connection, relaxation, and legacy. A pool for new memories, a pergola for peaceful evenings, and a landscape that balances beauty with ease.
Click the button below to see the project, its purpose, and what Kevin had to say about his experience.
Where Memories Gather
This project began with a simple vision: to create a backyard where family could come together and life could unfold naturally. The result is a tranquil retreat that blends modern design with timeless comfort — a space where the homeowner now watches his grandson learn to swim and enjoys quiet evenings by the pool with his wife.
A Belgard paver pool deck provides a clean, slip-resistant foundation for sun-filled days. The water features add movement and sound, softening the scene with a calming rhythm. Surrounding flagstone steppers, stone edging, and lush layered plantings create a garden that feels alive yet effortless to maintain.
The luxury pergola extends the living space into the outdoors, framing dinner, laughter, and late-night conversations under the soft glow of custom lighting. Together, every element celebrates the idea of home as a sanctuary — a place built for connection, rest, and the joy of everyday moments.
TIMELINE
6-8 WEEKS
BUDGET
$200,000
LOCATION
LAKE ST LOUIS, MO
The Transformation
BEFORE
"A nice place to put a pool"
What began as a wide-open backyard with endless potential was once simply an empty space. When the homeowner first looked out over the gentle slope, they were told, “This would be a great spot for a pool.” That simple idea sparked a vision—transforming this blank canvas into something truly special. The open lawn represented opportunity, creativity, and the chance to bring a dream outdoor retreat to life.
DESIGN
The design
Working with Elevate Outdoor, a detailed landscape plan was created to turn imagination into reality. The design blended structure and flow, combining hardscapes, lush plantings, and a centerpiece pool for both relaxation and entertaining. Elements such as a paver pool deck, luxury pergola, and stone retaining wall framed the space beautifully, while carefully selected plantings.
Lighting, flagstone steppers, and stone edging tied the design together to create both function and ambiance.
AFTER
The result
What was once simply a vision has become an essential space for connection and memories. The pool, patio, and garden now serve as a backdrop for laughter, quiet mornings, and summer evenings shared with family and friends. It’s more than just a transformation of landscape—it’s a transformation of lifestyle. This outdoor space now reflects the heart of the home, where moments are made, seasons are celebrated, and the promise of that once-empty yard is fully realized.
FAQs
How much should I expect to spend on landscaping?
The cost of landscaping is difficult to generalize without site-specific information and an understanding of the specific vision for your home. However, Realtors published an article that states that a homeowner can expect to spend between 10-12% of the cost of their home on landscaping. We have found that for many projects, this is a fairly accurate projection, however, many projects are above or below that average based on the homeowner’s objectives, specific site requirements, and finished material selections.
Can I complete my project in phases?
Absolutely. We work with homeowners on a regular basis to create phasing plans for their projects. We will phase a project to meet the clients’ initial budget goals, while maintaining a cohesive design that can be flawlessly completed in 2 stages or 10, based on your specific needs.
How do I care for my plants after they are installed by Elevate?
There’s typically not a lot of maintenance in the first year or two after plants are installed. The above ground growth is minimal as the plants are trying to get root establishment as vigorously as possible.
Most plants require at least a light pruning each year (spring and fall are best) and it may be necessary to remove some dead wood or dormant material after the winter season.
The most important thing you can do to care for your plants is adhere to a strict watering plan, especially within the first year after installation. Click here to learn more about how to water your plants.
