September ushers in the fall season with cool, crisp sunny days, transforming the neighborhood into a vibrant tapestry of color and texture. This month’s Beauty Spot is bestowed upon Jaime and Carmen Figueroa of 3507 Pinehurst Avenue.  Long-time residents of our community, the Figueroa’s previously earned this honor back in 2014, and we are excited to witness the evolution of their home over the years.

As you approach their residence, you are greeted by a lush, well-manicured green lawn that gracefully envelops the sloped hill leading up to the house. The front yard features an enchanting island bed, where a rustic wooden sign adorned by whimsical frog statues, seashells, and interesting rocks that welcomes visitors. This charming display is complemented by a delightful mix of white and bright pink crepe myrtles, dogwoods, and a variety of evergreens, creating a picturesque scene.

The front of the house showcases an impressive array of fluffy, green-tinged hydrangea blooms, that beautifully contrast against the bright blue painted brick. A stone-lined bed wraps around the front door, where evergreens and a splendid dogwood tree create a warm welcome, while hostas and perennial flowers fill in the spaces below, adding layers of texture and multi-season color.

To the right of the driveway, an alternating row of crepe myrtles and dogwood trees lines the property, with a stately Japanese maple enhancing the landscape’s beauty. At the top of the driveway, a cozy covered gazebo invites relaxation, providing a perfect spot to enjoy the outdoors surrounded by colorful perennials.

The Country Hills Garden Club is thrilled to showcase the Figueroa’s home this September. We invite all residents to stop by to enjoy their lovely landscape.  

Kirsten Youngren

Country Hills Garden Club

With the heat of summer fully upon us, some CCH yards aren’t slowing down. One such example is the DeThomas home at 10120 Cornwall Road, which has earned them the August Beauty Spot. Christine and Steve are recent newcomers to CCH and, while excited to receive this acknowledgment, they would be remiss without mentioning the previous owner and longtime former resident, Nancy LeBow. It was Nancy’s vision and design that set-in motion, many years ago, this now mature landscape.

Their well-manicured large corner lot offers a variety of multi-seasonal interest to admire no matter which side passersby choose to stop. A rustic wooden fence lines the property and landscaped beds that contain an assortment of mature dogwoods, rose bushes, and evergreens.  At this time of the year, three well-placed crepe myrtles are ablaze with intense deep red flowers, creating vibrant focal points throughout the garden. Meanwhile, panicled hydrangeas dot the landscape, their blooms reminiscent of fluffy white clouds against a bright blue sky.

As you approach the house, an assortment of shrubs in different colors and textures offers visual interest, while stone garden features add a thoughtful touch.  The right side of the driveway is flanked by a raised stone bed containing a plethora of pollinator-loving plants. A sea of golden yellow rudbeckia, interspersed with the purple hues of towering Joe Pye weeds, are covered with a host of busy bees, creating a lively and dynamic display. The theme continues with catmint, sedum, coneflower, and daylilies anchoring this expanse of perennials.

The Country Hills Garden Club is excited to feature the DeThomas home at 10120 Cornwall Road this August. While this time of year can be hard on landscapes, theirs is going strong, standing as a testament to thoughtful design and meticulous maintenance. 

Kirsten Youngren

Country Hills Garden Club

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Spring has sprung and summer is fast approaching! The Country Hills Garden Club is excited to announce its first Beauty Spot of 2024. The June accolades are bestowed upon the home of Nancy and Allan Jones at 3506 Spring Lake Terrace. The Joneses have been longtime residents of CCH, over 40 years if anyone is counting. According to Allan, all the credit should go to Nancy, who has designed and maintained their lovely landscape over the years, harmoniously blending colors, textures, and seasonal interest.

As you take in their home from the street, a mature maple tree stands tall as the landscape focal point, providing much-needed shade for the dense sea of pachysandra that envelops the front yard. A stone path meanders along its base, bordered by evergreen shrubs and an assortment of ferns, heuchera, and azaleas. An inviting wooden bench awaits those that venture this path less traveled. 

Throughout the landscape, one can find thoughtfully placed garden features that add an artistic touch and visual interest. A pair of weathered planters showcases colorful coleus, while a lone late-blooming azalea provides a pop of pink against the lush green backdrop. These subtle yet impactful details demonstrate Nancy’s keen eye for design and her ability to create a cohesive and enchanting garden space. 

Approaching the front door, you are welcomed by a quaint terraced courtyard of brick and stone featuring multiple landscaped areas, various sized containers, and a café table for two. This cozy nook is perfect for soaking in the morning sun and enjoying a cup of coffee while admiring the meticulously curated garden. Lush green hostas encircle a vibrant dwarf Japanese maple, creating a striking contrast and focal point on the patio.   

The careful selection and placement of plants throughout the yard ensure that there is always something in bloom, providing continuous interest and beauty throughout the seasons. The Country Hills Garden Club proudly recognizes the Jones family for their outstanding efforts in transforming their home into a breathtaking beauty spot, deserving of this month’s recognition. 

Kirsten Youngren

Country Hills Garden Club

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