When Southview Design met with these homeowners this landscape already had an invaluable asset: a private forest of pines, spruce, aspen, maple, and oaks. Mature trees are incredibly valuable. Not only do they take a lifetime to grow, but they create a comfortable temperature by providing shade, and help control runoff by absorbing heavy rainfall. While the homeowners loved their trees, they had limited spaces to enjoy their landscape.
Before: Beautiful Mature Pines and an Aging Timber Retaining Wall
After: Limestone Retaining Walls and Resilient Plantings
Before: At first, this yard's outdoor seating plan was limited to the walkway encircling the home, and a small dining patio.
After: Now, two separate patios are just far enough apart to allow for separate conversations – or a separate kids patio. This circular patio overlooks the expansive yard down to the lakeshore
Terraced patios transform a sloping hill into a livable space
Brick paver walkway along the side of the house. Limestone foot bridge over the artificial stream.
A separate dining patio. In the foreground, the bubbling basalt column is the head of the stream.
Waterfall embedded in a boulder retaining wall
A careful eye, and a combination of skid-steer and manpower came together to create this recirculating waterfall. The recirculating waterfall starts from a sculptural basalt column near the house. A bubbling stream passes under a foot bridge before breaking down the waterfall. Because the design mixes massive boulders, medium stones, and small pebbles the waterfall looks perfectly natural.
Black-eyed Susans attract Monarch friends
Your perfect outdoor living space begins with a simple conversation. Let’s talk about your landscaping project!
Schedule a Meeting
Steep slope transformed into a backyard inspired by nature. More than a patio! This design includes a backyard waterfall, stream, fire circle, and fly-fishing pond.
Learn More
A backyard for the young and young-at-heart. This design incorporates a pool, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, pergola, natural stone, and multiple patios.
Recognized for excellence in design and construction. A steep hill became a casual Northwoods living space.