This project was all about overcoming major site problems from the beginning….some of them undetected until groundbreaking. After spending several years renovating the inside of their Wayzata home, it was time for the homeowners to turn their attention to the outside. The family’s three sons are all older and on their own. The landscape renovation was about planning for the next phase in life – grandchildren. Plus, the eldest son was planning a wedding and hoping the reception would be held around the pool. So, there was a little pressure to get the project done in time.

Five-Time Award Winner

2014 MN NARI Silver Contractor of the Year (COTY) award for Residential Exterior Specialty
2014 MNLA Award for Excellence in Landscape Design
2014 Silver award from Professional Remodeler magazine
2014 Recognition award from PLANET
2022 NALP Silver Award for excellence in Landscape Management

The original landscaping was outdated, and in some areas, unsafe. Even without underlying structural issues, this back yard was not meeting the needs of this Minnesota family. The space had no “flow” and didn’t have a space for grilling out.


Before: Structurally compromised gazebo and pool deck

After: Gorgeous backyard pool at twilight

Slide the bar to reveal the before and after

With an upgraded pool deck, two structures for shelter from the sun and rain, and a full service outdoor kitchen, this Wayzata backyard now has flow for days.

Before: Decaying timber retaining wall

After: Sturdy, fortified, and durable modular brick retaining wall

Built to Last

Rotten and infested with bees, this timber retaining wall had to go. Sorry bees, we love you and everything you do for us, but you can't live here anymore!

While the old timber wall was turning to dust, the new modular block wall will last for years and better matches the style of the home. Manufactured for quick assembly and extended longevity, modular walls are an excellent alternative to stone or wood. These homeowners fell in love with the look of Anchor Artisan pavers, which are available in dozens of colors and styles. Even though the wall has a perimeter of over 100 feet, it is straight as an arrow with no wobbles or waves.

Backyard kitchen designed to match the house

Backyard Designed for Entertaining

Finding the perfect place for this outdoor kitchen was a challenge. The best real estate along the back of the house was already claimed by three large A/C units. Other options, like centering the outdoor kitchen between the home’s windows or aligning it with the peak of the roof, were also ruled out because of spatial constraints. The solution? Tucked into a corner, the kitchen's pergola is built to match the corner pergola, while the peak of the roof and shingles were selected to match the home.

wayzata backyard pool and corner pergola

Enjoy a dip and a drink while taking in the tranquil view.

Regular Maintenance Keeps The Estate in Tip Top Shape

Southview's commercial maintenance team is on site once a week for routine maintenance. This includes mowing the 16-acre property with precise lines, line trimming around all walkways and obstacles (fences, trees, utility boxes, etc.), weeding beds, picking up sticks and blowing debris off all hard surfaces. In 2022, the property received a Silver Award from the National Association of Landscape Professionals for excellence in Residential Landscape Management.

The colorful garden against the backdrop of a private lake provides a breathtaking view.

wayzata estate with mature trees and lush turf

Regular fertilizer treatments keep the turf lush and healthy.

wayzata backyard basketball court

Basketball court made of interlocking hard plastic square quickly sheds water so players can get back to the game.

walk out stamped concrete patio

From the family room, step through the sliding patio doors to this sheltered outdoor sitting area. This patio is located under a deck off the side of the house and has a beautiful view of the landscape.

rustic wooden planter bench with purple flowers

Colorful backyard planter with a tranquil pond in the background.

Annual summer flowers are hand picked for the beds in the front yard.

Improve Your Life Outdoors

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