Nestled in the rugged terrain of North Scottsdale, a home perched atop nearly two acres of boulder-strewn landscape stands as a testament to innovative design and harmonious integrations with nature.

Designed by architect Mark Sever, the structure is elevated on support columns thoughtfully built around existing boulders, offering a fusion of architecture and natural beauty. The true marvel, however, lies in the meticulously crafted landscape design by Donna Winters and Patricia Rossi.

“When the homeowners first approached us, the site was lush desert,” Winters recalls. “We had to remove certain elements, open up corridors and create a more refined look while preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings.”

The property is uniquely situated, with the driveway entrance from the street leading to an auto court and covered sculpture and boulder garden. Here, guests are greeted by an awe-inspiring sight: a swimming pool elevated on a trio of columns, creating an illusion of floating above an outcropping of boulders below. Surrounding the pool are lines of tall, geometrically shaped stone pots topped by spiky blue glow agaves.  

“The juxtaposition of various forms—whether it’s color, textures or layers—and the separation between the different forms is what creates the interest,” Winters says, adding that this distinctive feature sets the tone for the entire property, which blends modern design with the raw beauty of the desert. 

The journey to the front entrance takes visitors through the sculpture and boulder garden and up a cantilevered stairway to the second level. Along the way, the desert’s natural elements are integrated with the landscape design. For example, a natural arroyo, or wash, has been preserved, respecting the land’s natural water runoff patterns. Fencing surrounding the property dovetails into the boulders, disappearing into the landscape. And walkways and corridors throughout the site create breezeways.

“While it may look and feel natural, everything is strategically planned and placed to fully integrate the landscape design with the home’s functionality,” Winters says. 

One of the standout features of the landscape design is the homeowners’ love for flowers, most evident in the carefully curated flower beds that enhance the back entrance. “Every year, we line the driveway from the auto court to the street with flowers,” says Rossi. “It’s so beautiful, and the scent just fills the air.”

Potted plants throughout the property also bring splashes of color and texture, some filled with flowers, others with vibrant desert plants. “Sometimes, we don’t need just flowers to add color,” Rossi continues. “Red and golden barrel cactus and golden saguaros all play off each other, creating a tapestry of textures and hues.”

The collaboration between Winters, Rossi and the homeowners is built on trust and a shared vision. “We’ve worked together on another property before, so there was already an established relationship,” says Winters. “They shared their goals with us and trusted us to bring their vision to life.”

Winters and Rossi have developed a unique synergy that translates into stunning landscape designs—particularly at this North Scottsdale estate, considered to be a masterclass in blending natural and designed elements. From the elevated pool to the carefully curated flower beds to the strategic vignettes, every detail is thoughtfully crafted to create a captivating outdoor space.

“It’s all about balancing what the homeowner wants with the landscape compositions,” Winters says. “When it just feels good, you know it.”

“Everything is strategically planned and placed to fully integrate the landscape design with the home’s functionality.”

—Donna Winters, landscape architect

The second floor offers a striking contrast to the boulder and cactus garden below. Porthole-style windows beneath the pool’s surface add a nautical nod to this desert oasis.

SOURCES

• Architect: Mark Sever, Sever Design Group Architects, Scottsdale, severgroup.com
• Landscape architect: Donna Winters, Enchanted Garden Landscape, Phoenix, enchantedgardenaz.com
• Container plant designs: Patricia Rossi, enchantedgardenaz.com