2025 DDA: Exteriors

From luxe landscapes to stunning stone façades, these winning spaces shine bright

Gate/Fence/Wall

1st Place

Dul Landscape Architecture
Photo by: James Haefner

Precast concrete wall panels flank the drive leading to this home, creating a European-inspired courtyard featuring mature zelkova tree groves. The permeable, resin-bound paving extends from the driveway to connect the 12-inch space between the sidewalk and the property line, where site walls offer a low-maintenance solution. This sophisticated design embodies a minimalistic aesthetic of restraint.

 

2nd Place

AguaFina Gardens
Photo by: Trever Long/Maconochie Photography

3rd Place

Azd Associates with Ann David
Photo by: CC Photography


Exterior Use of Stone/Tile/Concrete

1st Place

Dul Landscape Architecture
Photo by: James Haefner

The materials used for this project’s architecture and site elements primarily consist of precast concrete panels and Corten steel. From the driveway, constructed of permeable resin-bound pebble paving with large-format porcelain lineal band slices, to the oversized porcelain stepping stones and precast concrete wall panels that create a European-inspired courtyard, the materials ensure that a disciplined aesthetic unites the entire property.

2nd Place

Zaremba & Co.
with HEID Architects, PLLC
Photo by: Sally Matak

3rd Place

AguaFina Gardens
Photo by: Carlos Medrano


Residential Landscape Water Feature

1st Place

AguaFina Gardens
Photo by: James Wilcox

This garden features a striking vertical basalt boulder from which a stream emerges, cascading into a small pool before winding beneath a cantilevered deck and into a shallow pond. The sound of water promotes a soothing atmosphere while dampening the noise from the busy streets beyond. A specimen weeping ginkgo arches gracefully over the stream. The surrounding stone and lighting elements create a harmonious focal point.

2nd Place

Moceri Custom Homes
with Mosher Design
Photo by: Sasha Marceta/Skyview Experts

3rd Place

Great Lakes Landscape Design
Photo by: Lake State Media


Residential Swimming Pool/Spa

1st Place

dSPACE Studio Architecture
Photo by: Tony Soluri

Designed for globetrotting clients who wanted a weekend sanctuary, this Lake Michigan home evokes a luxurious St. Barts lifestyle and features a pool terrace inspired by a boutique hotel. A saltwater pool with an integrated hot tub ensures there are opportunities for relaxed entertaining as well as recreation. A sun shelf leads to extra-wide steps that flow into the pool, while Tuuci umbrellas, built into the terrace, provide shade — even on windy days.

2nd Place

Tutto Interiors
with Skilform Architects
Photo by: John Carlson

3rd Place

DesRosiers Architects
with Custom Homes by Derocher
Photo by: WayUp Media


Deck/Patio/Porch

1st Place

La Marco Homes with Krieger Klatt Architects
Photo by: Sally Matak

This backyard porch manages to blend bold and striking with cozy and inviting. Contemporary, custom-fabricated black steel panels frame the porch and mimic the exterior detailing between the first- and second-floor windows. Beneath the porch, exposed, quarry-faced stone walls, a warm cedar ceiling, and a traditional fireplace make for a comfortable outdoor seating area. Beyond the porch, wrap-around stone steps lead to an exposed aggregate lower patio with rusted steel planters full of Russian sage.

2nd Place

Zaremba & Co.
Photo by: Justin Maconochie

3rd Place

Glenda Meads Architects
with Zaremba & Co. and Templeton Building Co.
Photo by: Sally Matak


Outdoor Fireplace

1st Place

Dul Landscape Architecture with Young & Young Architects
Photo by: James Haefner

This project brought to life a dynamic environment for the homeowners. Recessed lighting was integrated into the terraces, stairs, pool, and landscape to extend entertainment opportunities into the evening. Noteworthy amenities include a depressed stone fire pit, an outdoor kitchen complete with an authentic wood-fired pizza oven, and a polished granite water feature with symmetrical fire accents.

2nd Place

LUXE Homes Design Build, LLC
with Oliver Max Inc.
Photo by: Karl Moses

3rd Place

AguaFina Gardens
Photo by: James Wilcox


Residential Landscape Design (Over 1 Acre)

1st Place

Dul Landscape Architecture
Photo by: James Haefner

This manor is set on a 2-acre parcel where a sophisticated gate sets the entry sequence for a dramatic view of the home. The motor court circle is pinched by masonry walls, leading to a sense of surprise as you arrive to find boxwood hedges and flowering masses. The drama extends into the backyard, where a pool is positioned on center axis with the home. Thoughtfully placed lighting makes it possible to extend the outdoor experience into the evening.

2nd Place

Zaremba & Co.
Photo by: Justin Maconochie

3rd Place

Goldner Walsh Garden & Home
Photo by: Sally Matak


Residential Landscape Design (Under 1 Acre)

1st Place

Zaremba & Co. with HEID Architects, PLLC
Photo by: Sally Matak

The comprehensive renovation of this lakeside home integrates unique architectural details with the surrounding hillside landscape. The project preserved existing trees and introduced a tapestry of native woodland plants to rejuvenate the forest floor. A landscape staircase with treads of crushed stone and concrete steppers adorned with natural stone directs guests to the lake, while strategic lighting highlights the garden paths, fostering a deep connection between the home and its picturesque setting.

2nd Place

AguaFina Gardens
Photo by: Trever Long/Maconochie Photography

3rd Place

AguaFina Gardens
Photo by: James Wilcox


Detroit Design Awards 2025

Judges
Details
Exteriors
Interiors
Homes
Commercial Design
Rising Star
Readers’ Choice