Shorewood, MN Front and Backyard Landscape Design

A much needed landscape upgrade

This active family has an amazing home in an incredible location, complete with their own private beach. Unfortunately, their driveway was crumbling to pieces, and their gardens were subsiding toward the lake. Even though the basic layout of the space was adequate, this backyard was overdue for an aesthetic refresh and a structural upgrade to put right these long simmering issues.

Before & After: Simple. Elegant. Timeless.

Roots from several trees were pushing up the driveway and pushing out the stones in the retaining wall. When the retaining wall was starting to fail, the homeowners knew it was time to call in the professionals.

Before, there were many elements and different building materials competing for attention. Now the new paver driveway flows from the curb to the front door, and is flanked on both sides by grassy hills. The curving lines and herringbone pattern add a refined sensibility to the driveway. Simple and elegant, this upgraded front yard lets the cheerful, yellow home stand out from the curb.

Backyard Before & After

A major problem with this backyard was that the gardens were always in the process of eroding away. In addition to resolving this major structural issue, the homeowners also wanted to add a gazebo and fire pit. Installing a new Chestnut Brown boulder retaining wall created a solid foundation to build the rest of this luxury backyard patio.

Paying careful attention to coordinating details between the house and the landscape helps to create a strong sense of unity. Notice the repetition of white columns and trim, the matching shingles on the home and gazebo, and the color coordination between the retaining wall and newly stone-faced chimney.

Installing a new retaining wall allowed us to plant this low-maintenance perennial garden of Bobo hydrangea, Denim n’ Lace Russian Sage, Class Act Sedum, Franz Schubert Phlox, Pow Wow Wildberry Coneflower, and May Night Salvia, looks beautiful and will thrive easily in Minnesota’s climate.

Backyard Oasis by the Lake

Terraced patios, each with its own specific function, look out over the private beach and lake beyond. There is a newly installed gas fire pit with stucco base that starts at the flick of a switch. The new gazebo adds shade, shelter, and storage for pool toys.

This natural stone staircase leads from the front driveway to the backyard, improving access for guests and neighbors. At night, the path is illuminated outdoor lighting.