Sustainable Landscaping for a Functional Family Retreat

The landscape at our clients’ home, originally installed over 20 years ago, had become outdated and overgrown and lacked functional outdoor spaces for their growing family. The property also faced significant drainage challenges, with rainwater flowing back toward the foundation and ponding issues in the backyard. Through thoughtful design and sustainable practices, we transformed this space into a functional, eco-friendly oasis.

Before & After Move the slider to reveal the transformation.

Before: Uneven & Overgrown

After: Stunning patio with plenty of space to entertain and explore.

The existing irregular flagstone patio was insufficient for entertaining and unsafe for the kids. We expanded the patio by repurposing bluestone and adding a clay paver inlay, creating a more functional space for entertaining.

patio with corten steel planters and yard overlooking to marsh

Purposeful Design

The curved edge mirrors the back steps, while bluestone columns anchor the design. The patio opens to the yard and a new winter sledding hill—an inviting space for kids year-round.

Protecting the Marsh

At the edge of the yard, a marsh naturally collects water from the street. To improve drainage and restore the ecosystem, we cleared excess plant material and debris from the creek bed, replanting it with a native woodland mix. This enhances water flow while supporting local wildlife.

Drainage Solved

A low spot in the yard led to standing water and made mowing difficult. To fix this, we installed a subsurface drainage system—a rock-filled trench that redirects water to the marsh. Now, the lawn stays dry and usable, no matter the season.

Before & After Steps & Planters in Perfect Harmony

outdoor steps with weeds growing

Before: Overgrown with weeds and an unstable retaining wall.

clean and modern outdoor steps with planters

After: Bluestone retaining wall and steps planted with vibrant perennials. Plus low voltage lighting for safety.

sandbox on bluestone patio

Room to Explore, and More

Additional patio space connects the front and back while making room for an adorable sand pit for their young kids. Throughout, Corten steel planters add a modern touch, each equipped with drip irrigation for sustainable watering.

Before & After Move the slider to reveal the transformation.

Before: The home was hidden beneath overgrown landscaping.

After: The circular driveway’s plant bed was refreshed with a garden wall, while smaller garden walls now frame the front entry.

pathway with steps and driveway

LED lighting was installed throughout the property to eliminate dark corners, improve safety, and highlight key features of the new landscape.

wall with lighting and steps

Steps leading from the newly poured concrete driveway.

circular driveway with plant bed with a tree and shrubs

A Lasting Landscape

This landscape now fits the family’s lifestyle, with spaces for play, relaxation, and connection. Thoughtful design and sustainable solutions create a natural, inviting space that will grow with them for years to come.

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