Recent Landscape & Outdoor Living Projects

The Medema Project in Downers Grove, IL highlights VizX Design Studios’ thoughtful approach to outdoor living space design that blends functionality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. This backyard transformation was created with intentional zoning for dining and lounging, featuring a custom broom‑finished concrete patio, mixed material design with cedar wood accents, integrated plantings, landscape lighting, and a natural gas fire feature to enhance evening ambiance. Designed to feel like an extension of the home, this outdoor living space reflects our commitment to crafting environments that elevate how clients relax, entertain, and enjoy everyday outdoor life. As with all our projects, it demonstrates strategic outdoor design, material integration, and lifestyle‑driven planning that brings long‑lasting value to homeowners in Chicagoland.

The Nijjar project in Naperville, IL showcases VizX Design Studios’ commitment to thoughtful outdoor living design that elevates everyday life. This custom backyard transformation was created for homeowners seeking something beyond a basic paver patio — a cohesive outdoor space that blends seamless indoor-outdoor flow with stunning golf course views. Our team designed a multi-zone layout featuring a functional kitchen and dining area, a lounge space with a retractable natural fire feature, integrated planting beds, and an architectural connection that complements the home’s style. With attention to maximizing views and enhancing family-focused outdoor enjoyment, this project highlights practical outdoor kitchen design, composite decking, and future phase plans including a built-in swim spa and negative edge water feature.

At VizX Design Studios, we’re excited to highlight a striking outdoor living design we completed for a home in Schaumburg, IL that truly illustrates our commitment to creating functional yet visually refined backyard environments. This custom design centers around a modern, multi-level patio layout with clean lines and geometric paver patterns that define distinct gathering zones while enhancing the flow of the space. A cozy fire pit lounge area invites family and friends to gather, while adjacent seating and dining spaces make the backyard equally suited to relaxation and entertaining. Thoughtfully placed plantings and integrated lighting elements bring texture, softness, and ambiance to the design, bridging the hardscape with the landscape in a seamless way. This project reflects our holistic approach — balancing form and function to deliver a backyard that feels like a natural extension of the home and a destination for everyday enjoyment.

At VizX Design Studios, we’re proud to spotlight a beautifully thoughtful backyard design completed for a home in Glencoe, IL that exemplifies our outdoor living philosophy — crafting elevated spaces that feel intentional, livable, and harmonious with the surrounding environment. This custom outdoor design features a sleek, multi‑level patio layout that guides movement through distinct zones for lounging, gathering, and dining, beautifully integrated with the home’s exterior and site topography. Central to the space is a comfortable conversation area anchored by a modern fire feature, surrounded by lounge seating that invites relaxation and connection. Clean geometric pavers and contrasting groundcover define each zone while subtle planting beds and raised planters bring softness and greenery to the design. Thoughtful touches like built‑in seating walls and a seamless transition from deck to patio show how intentional layout and material choices elevate everyday outdoor experiences. This project reflects VizX’s commitment to outdoor living design that’s both purposeful and visually stunning, offering a backyard that feels like a true extension of the home.

At VizX Design Studios, one of the projects we’re proud to highlight is the Watson outdoor living design in Chicago, IL — a space that beautifully demonstrates our approach to thoughtful, functional design for even modest backyards. For this family, we reimagined a once-underutilized outdoor area by creating clearly defined zones for dining, lounging, and gathering around a custom fire feature, all while maintaining seamless flow from the home to the yard. This design incorporates elements such as a built-in grill island with premium materials, integrated landscape lighting, and a thoughtful seating arrangement that encourages everyday use and entertainment alike. Throughout the process, we focused on purpose-driven layout, architectural harmony with the home, and maximizing the usability of the space — all hallmark principles of our 5-Step Outdoor Living Method that ensures each project is as functional as it is beautiful.

We want to take a moment to reflect on a previously completed backyard landscape design we did for a lovely home out in Hinsdale, IL. The homeowners wanted to keep things simple, yet modern & inviting & we were happy to create a design that encompasses everything that they needed. We added a small pergola where they can hold cookouts in the summer, an open fire pit surrounded by fashionable, yet comfortable, furniture, custom uplighting to keep things lightly illuminated at night, and their hot tub. The design is both stylish & modern and the homeowners are absolutely thrilled.

We’re taking a moment to revisit one of our favorite completed projects in Palos Park — the Outdoor Living Oasis. This backyard transformation showcases our approach to blending refined design with real-world livability, from the custom Danver outdoor kitchen and cedar-clad bar to the Italian porcelain tile patio that seamlessly extends the home outdoors. Anchored by a striking fire and water feature and enhanced with carefully layered lighting, this space continues to stand as a great example of how intentional design can create a timeless outdoor retreat meant to be enjoyed for years to come.

At VizX Design Studios, we want to take a moment to highlight a beautiful outdoor living transformation for a home in Winnetka, IL that we completed that beautifully reflects our core design philosophy — blending architectural harmony, lifestyle functionality, and thoughtful craftsmanship. From our initial discovery session through precision site mapping and immersive 3D design visualization, we worked closely with the homeowners to tailor every detail to how they live, entertain, and enjoy their outdoor space. The final result is a seamless extension of the home: a custom outdoor kitchen and lounge area anchored by elegant materials, integrated lighting, and comfortable gathering zones that flow naturally with the existing landscape. This project exemplifies our commitment to outdoor environments that are not just visually stunning but built to enhance everyday living — all delivered through our methodical 5-Step Outdoor Living Method that ensures clarity, confidence, and long-lasting satisfaction.

We want to take a look back at a beautiful custom backyard landscape design we created in Mokena, Illinois, transforming the space into a refined outdoor retreat built for both relaxation and entertaining. The design features a freeform swimming pool anchored by natural stone coping and a raised retaining wall system that creates visual depth and functional elevation changes throughout the yard. An upper patio with a custom pergola provides a comfortable gathering area overlooking the pool, while integrated steps and railings ensure a seamless flow between levels. Thoughtful plant selections, lounge seating, and clean architectural lines come together to deliver a polished, cohesive outdoor environment tailored to the homeowners’ lifestyle.

At VizX Design Studios, we recently completed this Chicago rooftop landscape design, transforming an underutilized terrace into a functional, elevated outdoor living space. The project included the design and installation of a modern pergola with integrated lighting, providing shade, structure, and year-round usability while complementing the city skyline. We incorporated custom planters and layered greenery to soften the hardscape, define seating zones, and create privacy without blocking views. The finished space balances clean architectural lines with warmth and comfort, delivering a rooftop environment suited for both entertaining and everyday use.

We recently completed a backyard landscape design in Winnetka featuring a custom fire pit and outdoor kitchen. The design focused on creating a functional layout with defined seating areas, integrated hardscaping, and layered landscape lighting to extend usability into the evening. Clean lines, modern materials, and strategic plant placement were used to balance warmth and structure, resulting in an outdoor space designed for both entertaining and everyday enjoyment.

We recently completed a backyard patio and outdoor living design for a client in Hinsdale, IL. Our team reimagined the space with new stone pavers, integrated seating areas, and cohesive landscape elements to create a patio that flows with the home and invites everyday use and entertaining. The design included thoughtful layout planning so dining, lounging, and transition zones feel naturally connected, and we coordinated plantings and hardscape details to complement the existing outdoor environment. The result is a functional, stylish backyard retreat the homeowners love.

Developed a dedicated outdoor dining pavilion with integrated lighting and weather-resistant materials. The design creates an ideal setting for entertaining while maintaining open views of the landscape.

Designed a poolside lounge area with modern pavers, built-in seating, and subtle landscape lighting. The layout enhances relaxation while maintaining clear sightlines and easy access to the pool.

Reconstructed multiple planting beds using fresh soil, stone edging, and seasonal plants to revive the landscape. The new layout emphasized color, structure, and easier long-term maintenance.

Added a large seating patio and grilling area to expand the homeowners’ outdoor living options. The custom layout improved flow from the home and created a dedicated space for relaxing and entertaining.

Installed a premium low-voltage lighting system to brighten pathways, highlight trees, and enhance outdoor ambiance. The lighting design improved both nighttime safety and overall atmosphere.

Constructed a sleek cedar pergola paired with a cozy paver lounge space designed for shaded relaxation. Integrated lighting and clean architectural lines helped create a modern retreat perfect for unwinding outdoors.

Designed and constructed a full outdoor kitchen complete with stone countertops, built-in grill system, and matching paver patio. The project prioritized functionality, ease of movement, and creating a space perfect for both everyday family use and special entertaining.

Installed a custom natural gas fire pit with surrounding hardscape features to create a warm, inviting outdoor gathering space. The design focused on safety, durability, and creating a cozy focal point that could be enjoyed throughout multiple seasons.

This Palos Park, IL project was designed to create an inviting outdoor haven that brings family and friends together around a beautifully crafted Danver outdoor kitchen system, all while preserving the sweeping backyard views through the home’s 9′ panoramic living room window. The space blends fire, water, and elegant architectural details to form a serene retreat that feels seamlessly connected to the home. Despite challenges with drainage, material integration, and ensuring unobstructed woodland views, the final design delivers a harmonious, functional, and visually captivating outdoor living experience.

This Addison, IL project focused on transforming the home’s entrance with a hydronic heated paver driveway and radiant heated staircase, creating a warm, welcoming, and functional approach that enhances curb appeal year-round. The design matched the home’s existing architecture while offering a smooth transition from the driveway to the front door. Despite challenges with city and township permitting for the heating system, the team delivered a beautiful, reliable, and budget-conscious upgrade that provides comfort, safety, and long-lasting value.

This custom outdoor living design in Crown Point, Indiana, was created to transform a sloped yard into a functional and inviting space for family fun. The project features a relaxing hot tub area, a natural gas fire feature, cedar-wrapped seating, and a broom-finished concrete play zone — all while preserving the natural wooded views. Despite the challenges of a steep grade, the design seamlessly complements the home’s architecture and provides a cost-effective layout with plenty of room for the family to enjoy year-round.

VizX Design Studios designed a modern outdoor living space in Naperville focused on family fun, comfort, and scenic golf course views. The project features a relaxing hot tub area, natural gas fire feature, Danver outdoor kitchen system, and a durable composite deck that complements the home’s architecture. Working within a tight easement and strict no-build line, our team carefully planned each element to preserve sightlines from the living room while keeping the project within an affordable budget. The result is a beautiful, functional space perfect for summer-long enjoyment.

This Downers Grove project represents the heart of what VizX Design Studios strives for; transforming not just spaces, but lives. Our client, seeking a simple patio, discovered the value of a fully designed outdoor living environment that blends function, comfort, and emotion. The two-zone design features a dining space, a lounge with a fire pit, and layered materials including cedar-stained wood, broom-finished concrete, and brick pavers. Soft plantings and a moonlight effect from a tree-mounted light complete the tranquil atmosphere. For this client, the new space became more than a backyard, it became a personal sanctuary and symbol of renewal.

VizX Design Studios worked with a Naperville homeowner to transform a small, challenging backyard into a stunning outdoor living space featuring an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and custom patio design. After receiving generic patio quotes elsewhere, the client turned to VizX for a plan that complemented their home’s architecture and lifestyle. Despite initial budget concerns, the phased design approach made the vision possible; resulting in a beautiful, functional space that has quickly become the heart of the home. The project not only enhanced the property’s design but also changed how the clients enjoy their home every day.

VizX Design Studios created a one-of-a-kind outdoor living space for a custom Scandinavian Modern Farm home in Naperville. The project blended Scandinavian, Modern Farm, and Industrial design elements to complement the home’s distinct architecture. A porcelain tile patio, custom concrete seat walls with wood-grain texture, and a sleek Prism Hardscapes Tavola 3 fire table set the tone for modern elegance. The black pergola with integrated lighting and ceiling fan ties the design together, while new concrete steppers and slate chips refreshed the home’s front walkways—perfectly uniting form, function, and architectural style.

VizX Design Studios transformed a lakeside backyard in Fayetteville into a functional and flood-resistant outdoor space. Originally planned by a pool contractor, the project was re-envisioned to address seasonal flooding by raising the pool and deck two feet above ground and adding a protective planting berm. The design includes tiered elevation changes, a fire pit lounge, and retaining walls that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. After completion, multiple heavy storms confirmed the success of the concept; the pool and yard remained completely protected thanks to the custom berm and drainage system.

For the Khorrami residence in New Albany, OH, VizX Design Studios transformed the outdoor space with a full 3D design and complete construction drawings. The project includes a swimming pool with a dramatic water feature, spa, fire feature, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, all designed to create the perfect area for family fun. Despite elevation changes, strict township permitting, and the need to match the home’s existing architecture, our team delivered a cohesive, luxurious outdoor retreat.

Transforming a challenging 9-foot sloped backyard into a multi-functional oasis, VizX Design Studios crafted a complete 3D design with full construction drawings for this Mokena residence. The project features a swimming pool, spa, and fire feature, while creating multiple distinct spaces perfect for family fun. By carefully planning around the slope, our team delivered a beautiful, functional outdoor retreat with minimal cost impact.

VizX Design Studios transformed an 1,800-square-foot downtown Chicago penthouse rooftop into a stunning outdoor retreat. The design features three distinct zones: a culinary area with an outdoor kitchen and metallic pergola, a dining and putting green space, and a relaxation lounge with an infinity-edge swim spa. Walkways blend natural vegetation with contemporary materials, while a heating system, linear fire feature, and outdoor cinema elevate functionality and comfort. The rooftop now offers breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan, combining architectural sophistication with practical luxury.

VizX Design Studios transformed a suburban backyard in Pickerington into a modern outdoor living oasis. The project involved removing an outdated paver patio and large retaining wall, adding a new swimming pool with a reverse negative edge, and incorporating a 16′ linear fire feature. We also designed an outdoor kitchen with a pergola, multiple seating areas, and planting beds—all while addressing a sloped yard and property restrictions to achieve a stylish and functional space.

VizX Design Studios brought a bold vision to life in Homer Glen by designing a modern outdoor living space that harmonizes beautifully with a rustic log cabin home. The result is a stunning, vacation-style retreat featuring a relaxing spa, elegant pavilion, warm fire feature, and subtle landscape lighting that ties the space together. Despite challenges such as maneuvering heavy equipment across a delicate culvert system and working around an existing septic setup, the team delivered a flawless transformation. The finished design blends contemporary luxury with natural charm, creating the perfect getaway right at home.

VizX Design Studios reimagined this Glen Ellyn backyard to seamlessly complement the home’s architecture while enhancing the charm of the existing pond and outdoor setting. The compact space was transformed into a multi-use retreat featuring moonlight landscape lighting, a mesmerizing natural gas fire feature, and a soothing water feature. The team carefully worked within the existing landscape, repurposing portions of the old deck to blend with new materials. With thoughtful attention to detail—even ensuring the safe relocation of the resident koi fish to a neighbor’s pond—the result is a warm, functional oasis that feels perfectly at home in its surroundings.

In Naperville, IL, VizX Design Studios crafted an intimate outdoor living space that perfectly complements the architecture of a 100-year-old home. The design features a fully equipped outdoor kitchen system, a charming pergola, soft landscape lighting, and a cozy fireplace with a natural gas starter. Despite the challenge of working within a compact footprint and sourcing materials to blend seamlessly with the historic property, the team delivered a warm and inviting setting. Thoughtful screening ensures privacy from neighboring homes while creating a family-friendly retreat visible from the family room.

In Chicago, IL, VizX Design Studios transformed a compact backyard into a dynamic outdoor retreat that flows seamlessly with the home’s architecture. The project balanced aesthetics and functionality by incorporating an outdoor kitchen system, a sleek Shadow Spec umbrella for shade, enchanting landscape lighting, and a mesmerizing natural gas fire feature. Despite the limited footprint, the team optimized the layout to create a multi-purpose family fun area visible from the family room, ensuring safety without compromising style. The result is a vibrant, welcoming space that elevates everyday living and family gatherings alike.

This outdoor living space in Frankfort, IL was designed for both relaxation and entertainment. A sleek Danver Outdoor Kitchen System creates the perfect spot for open-air cooking, while a tranquil water feature adds soothing ambiance. The addition of a hot tub invites pure relaxation, complemented by a natural gas fire feature that brings warmth and atmosphere to evening gatherings. A cedar-wrapped seat bench completes the project, blending comfort and style seamlessly into the natural surroundings.