Lake Highlands has remained a well-kept secret in Dallas for a good many years, but those “in the know” are familiar with the hills and valleys of this oasis where, in some areas (on a clear day), an unobstructed view of the Dallas skyline can be seen. Maybe it’s the terrain, perhaps it’s the branch of White Rock Creek that zig zags through the neighborhood, possibly it’s because of the homes built back when contractors saved trees…whatever the reason, today Lake Highlands boasts some of the most beautiful lawns and gardens in the City.

What defines a beautiful yard? The Advocate asked two Lake Highlands dwellers, Sue Benson and Cyndei Littlejohn, how important to a home’s overall aesthetic value is its yard or surrounding grounds.

Sign up for our newsletter!

* indicates required

“Extremely,” says Benson, “As an interior designer, it doesn’t do a lot of good to have the coordinates inside the home if you have to walk past a horrible, unappealing, messy yard. It’s not as desirable a piece of property. Your landscaping should reflect who you are and complement your home. It should be inviting,” she emphasizes.

The home that Sue and John Benson built in Lake Highlands not only looks inviting, it appears peaceful and serene, both inside and out. From the beautiful lawn to the redwood decks perched over a branch of White Rock Creek to the contrast of stark white and onyx black when you enter the front door, it’s like entering the pages of a home and garden magazine.

The greenhouse, which is humid and warm, is located off the breakfast room and kitchen. Potted plants and hanging baskets thrive, especially the Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium orchids, which she says are “easy to grow – with enough light and heat, greenhouse plants simply need to be watered.” She doesn’t get in the g