Natural, Scenic, Effortless

Timeless Beauty by the Water

Lakeshore landscapes that make the most of their best feature: the water! Experienced designers navigate permitting and zoning regulations to create these beautiful outdoor living spaces on the water. Below are just a few of the lakeshore landscaping projects we’ve designed and built across Minnesota.

Steep Stepping in the Northwoods

Steps galore! This steep slope was transformed into a space that this family can now safely enjoy. This design includes steps, terraces, patios, fire features, and more.

Turtle Lake Escape

Situated on Turtle Lake in Shoreview MN, this lakefront landscape design features a picturesque firepit, fresh rip rap, a new patio, and an elegant softscape.

Modern on Minnetonka

Designed in partnership with John Kraemer & Sons and featured on the 2021 Artisan Home Tour, this modern masterpiece made a bold transformation.

Luxurious Lakefront Lodge

2021 AWARD WINNER – A resort-style rustic home on the lake equipped with a game room, outdoor kitchen, multiple patios, lighting, and fire features.

Plymouth Landscape Upgrade

These homeowners love their unique home. Unfortunately, their existing outdoor spaces were inadequate for entertaining.

Space for a Wedding

In just 10 days, Southview Design transformed this Eden Prairie landscape into an idyllic setting for a wedding.

Minnesota Family Lakehouse Landscape

A lake home landscape designed around a swimming pool for the extended family to enjoy.

Lakeside Jewel

Expansive views meet dramatic landscape design in Wayzata, where an infinity pool, fire features, an outdoor kitchen, and a hot tub create the ultimate outdoor retreat.

Hillside Forest Retreat

2011 AWARD WINNER – Northwoods lake home landscape on a hill combines natural materials with Midcentury modern design, making the most of the surrounding trees.

Resort Living on Lake Minnetonka

Nestled along the shores of Lake Minnetonka, this modern lakeshore landscape design seamlessly blends opulence and nature. Designed in partnership with builder John Kraemer & Sons and architects Murphy & Co, the home and outdoor space is an entertainer's paradise.

Private Lakeside Paradise

2016 AWARD WINNER – Five years in the making, this secluded backyard will take your breath away. Overcoming significant construction challenges to combine lake access and a private pool.

Common Lakeshore Landscaping Features

Your lakeshore project calls for both creative vision and technical expertise. Because every property is different, we tailor the design to your land, your lake, and how you want to enjoy it. Below are some of the most common features and services we include in lakeshore landscaping projects.

Riprap Installation

Riprap is essential for safeguarding shorelines against erosion, preserving property integrity, and maintaining natural habitats.

Retaining Walls

Retaining walls control erosion, manage runoff, or create level spaces for entertaining and outdoor living.

Outdoor Steps & Stairs

Landscaping steps and stairs in natural stone, concrete, and brick paired with retaining walls.

Custom Swimming Pools

Backyard swimming pool projects. Designs perfect for hot summer days, pool parties, and enjoying the summer with friends and family.

Outdoor Kitchens

Functional and beautiful kitchens for patios, decks, and outdoor living spaces of all sizes.

Slopes and Hills

Minnesota landscapes in sloping and hilly backyards. Challenging sites are no match for Southview Design's team of landscape architects, designers, and experienced construction crews.

We Handle the Red Tape

Every lake property is unique—and subject to local regulations. Our team works with the DNR, watershed districts, and city permitting offices to ensure your shoreline restoration or landscaping project is built to last and fully compliant. Learn more about how to protect your shoreline from erosion.

Improve Your Life Outdoors

Meet with A Landscape Designer or Architect

Your perfect outdoor living space begins with a simple conversation. Let’s talk about your outdoor living space!


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Shoreline Restoration, Lakehome landscaping, Rip Rap Installation

Protect and Enhance Your Shoreline

The Southview Standard

At Southview Design, we're dedicated to ensuring your riprap installation is done right the first time, every time. We bring decades of expertise and a proven track record of excellence in shoreline restoration.

Protect Your Shoreline from Erosion

Learn how Southview Design works to protect Minnesota's precious waters from erosion, reduce runoff, and create habitats for native plants and animals.

Fix Damage from Ice Heaving

Freeze-thaw cycles in Minnesota have caused ice heaving. Ice shoves have damaged shorelines and lakeshores. Southview provides expert rip rap repair and shoreline restoration.