Landscaping construction and design, Minnetonka, MN

Multi-level Outdoor Living

Limited Space, Sloped Backyard and Setbacks: Oh My!

These clients had just two items on their wish list: a swimming pool and low-maintenance everything. Despite the layout of the backyard, variation in grade, and overall challenges, the designer and the crew made sure to give these homeowners just what they were looking for.

Side view of home showing how upper patio connects to lower patio

Creating a Cohesive Outdoor Space

The curving walkway and steps guide you from the upper-level kitchen area to the lower-level patio. As you walk out of the interior kitchen, you're greeted by a large dining space, plus a sheltered outdoor kitchen equipped with amenities. As you make your way around the side of the house, you'll have to stop and enjoy the warmth of the fire on the mid-level patio. Take a few more steps down, and you'll discover two unique water additions that you won't find in many Minnesotans' backyards. These three spaces are woven together in a comfortable transition from top to bottom.

Upper-Level Patio: Outdoor Kitchen and Dining

The upper-level outdoor kitchen and dining area are just off the main floor kitchen. The dining area allows for a large gathering of family and friends. The outdoor kitchen is a great added bonus, as it has a sink, refrigerator, trash receptacle, and plenty of storage. The custom pergola is no-maintenance and provides the right amount of coverage. This means less going in and out, and more time enjoying being outside with your guests.

Mid-Level Patio: Fire Pit and Water Feature

The middle paver patio has a remote-controlled gas fire pit and serves as an outdoor living room. If you look closely, you'll see a pondless waterfall (also remote-controlled) through an opening in the retaining wall. This water feature is positioned just below the windows of the family/exercise room. When the windows are open, you'll hear a pleasant waterfall, which makes for a great addition for any workout.

Lower-Level Patio: Plunge Pool and Hot Tub

The lower-level patio has a unique hot tub and dip pool, side-by-side, for a warm/cool water plunge. The plunge pool is used in Minnesota's warm seasons. Additionally, right off the concrete patio, pavers surround the pool/spa with enough space for sunbathing or relaxing. Both pools have automativ covers, allowing for ease of use throughout the year. Although these homeowners may tuck the swimming pool away come fall, this hot tub is operational year-round.

Like What You're Seeing?

Meet with a Landscape Designer or Architect

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


Schedule a Meeting

Explore More MN Landscape Design & Architecture

Related Landscape Projects


Just What the Doctor Ordered

A private retreat built for two doctors and their family. This backyard is the perfect setting for R&R with an outdoor living room, deck, and pool.

The Corner House

After a major remodel took a major toll on the yard, this lakeside bungalow needed a landscape upgrade to match. New lawn. New patio. New retaining wall. Fresh garden. Now, after some serious TLC, this home overlooking Excelsior Bay is the jewel of the block.

Creating from a Blank Slate

The focus of this project was to make the back yard wheelchair accessible and add curb appeal. The project was completed over two years. The front yard was completed first, then the backyard.

Family Friendly Outdoor Living

A backyard for the young and young-at-heart. This design incorporates a pool, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, pergola, natural stone, and multiple patios.

Elegant Estate

Did someway say curb appeal? Stunning paver driveway, front entry, and swimming pool in North Oaks.

Plymouth Landscape Upgrade

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