Upper Arlington, Ohio
Kensington Drive
Elevated Living Through Custom Design & Maintenance
When a landscape transcends beauty and becomes a seamless extension of a home, you know you've stepped into something extraordinary. At Landfare Ltd., our design philosophy is rooted in creating high-end, enduring outdoor environments that complement the architecture of your home while honoring your lifestyle. This recently completed project exemplifies everything we value—timeless design, custom craftsmanship, and a commitment to caring for the space for years to come.
Scroll down to view photos of this project and watch the behind-the-scenes video.
"The theme is Mediterranean, Italian, some French—and always the perfect use of space. That's what we strive for: a design that fits the space perfectly." — John Spayde, Principal & Designer, Landfare Ltd.
Design That Complements Architecture
A project begins with understanding the home's architectural language. Here, detailed custom woodwork—including a finely crafted pergola—echoes the existing materials and tones of the residence. Whether it’s warm cedar beams or crisp painted structures, our custom design and installation services ensure every element feels intentional and timeless.
"Some spaces are small and you really have to take care when designing to make sure it fits perfectly," according to Spayde. This approach is evident throughout the property, especially with the pergola that extends partially over the pool, offering both shade and elegance in a sun-drenched yard. Explore our approach to design.
Italian Elegance, Engineered to Last: The Pool
The pool is not just a water feature—it’s the heartbeat of the backyard. Lined with custom Italian tile, the pool includes a seamlessly integrated hot tub and is protected by an automatic pool cover.
"The best features of the backyard? The pool, obviously," Spayde notes. "It had to be sized perfectly."
The entire pool system, from circulation to aesthetics, is managed and maintained by our specialized pool maintenance division. From opening and closing to seasonal cleaning and chemical balancing, our team ensures every swim is stress-free.
Lush Garden Layers & Privacy
European hornbeams encircle the property, carefully positioned for privacy and long-term structure. These tall, narrow trees will reach up to 30 feet and are maintained with precise pruning to develop dense, architectural forms.
High-end boxwoods—including little leaf green velvet varieties—form tiered layers in the garden, from low scalloped hedges to larger, rounded forms. Their French influence is undeniable, reminiscent of stately European gardens.
"Boxwoods respond so well to pruning. That's why, if you've ever been to Versailles, you see these shapes—they’ve learned how to prune and maintain them over centuries," said Spayde.
Thanks to our garden maintenance services, even vulnerable plants like boxwoods and rhododendrons thrive. We protect them with tailored sprays and fertilization, including time-released capsules that support health and color over time. Learn how our maintenance program protects your investment.
A Courtyard Welcome & Heated Front Porch
At the front of the home, a peaceful courtyard sets the tone for what’s to come. It’s here that John Spayde first envisioned the structure and layout of the boxwood hedges, bringing classic formality and lush texture to the entry experience.
Flanking this space is a custom-insulated front porch, complete with heated flooring—a year-round retreat that extends both comfort and style. Additionally, an automatic gate with an oversized gas light fixture flanks the other side to create balance.
Seasonal Plantings & Artful Urns
A signature of Landfare’s luxury landscapes is our custom-planted urns and containers. With thoughtful transitions between seasons, clients enjoy fresh beauty all year long:
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Spring: Tulips, daffodils, and pansies
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Summer: Perennials and colorful annuals
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Fall: Kale, cabbage, and mums
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Winter: Bulb planting for early blooms
"Containers absolutely get changed out quarterly. Right now we have pansies for Easter and spring—next we’ll mix perennials and annuals," Spayde noted.
Each planting is tailored to the client’s preferences and the microclimates of their property. Our seasonal maintenance plans ensure consistent beauty and peak performance.
Stonework That Withstands Time
The custom stonework in this space is both, structural and ornamental. Using high-density concrete (6000 psi) and grouting (4000 psi), our installation techniques protect against the Midwest’s freeze-thaw cycles.
Bluestone and limestone surfaces are chosen for texture and tone, with all materials installed on concrete underlayment for longevity. Our stone maintenance checklist ensures grout, joints, and surfaces are regularly reviewed by our experts.
"There’s a checklist updated every week. Our maintenance team tracks the performance of grout, the health of boxwoods—it’s all part of preserving the value of what we build," shared Spayde.
Lawn, Pruning & the Art of Detail
A lush lawn is more than mowing. With seven fertilization applications per year—well above industry standard—our lawns are thick, green, and weed-free. We also monitor irrigation systems, adjust watering zones, and apply time-release fertilizers across beds and borders.
Pruning at Landfare is both science and art. From topiary boxwoods to climbing wisteria, we know when to trim, how to shape, and how to coax each plant to its full potential.
"We spend time training our people—our staff knows exactly how to maintain every kind of plant material, from vines to ornamental trees," Spayde remarked.
A Maintenance Program that Protects the Investment
Every design decision—from the pergola’s angle to the placement of each hornbeam—is made with future growth in mind. Through our dedicated maintenance division, we not only protect but enhance what we’ve created.
Clients choose Landfare because they want to enjoy their landscape—not manage it. That’s why our services include:
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Weekly site visits
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Lawn fertilization & weed control
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Pruning of trees, shrubs, and vines
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Irrigation installation & repair
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Pool & spa care
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Container & bed planting
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Stone maintenance & inspection
"When someone invests in a backyard of this nature, it’s like buying a high-end car. You need the right people to maintain it—people who really care," according to Spayde.
Lasting Luxury in Every Layer
From the first concept sketch to the fourth season of bloom, this landscape is designed to evolve beautifully. It’s not just a space—it’s a lifestyle, a backdrop for memories, and an extension of home.
"The best part of a landscape isn’t when you put it in—it’s two, three, four years from now. That’s when it really becomes something special," said Spayde.
Ready to explore your next outdoor transformation? Discover our full design and maintenance services and let us help you bring your vision to life.
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