Our Past Projects

East Bay Panoramic 

Location: Bluff Road, Old Mission Peninsula

This East Bay property on Old Mission Peninsula was reimagined into a cohesive and functional landscape with a strong connection to Lake Michigan. The design prioritized low-maintenance living and lakeside entertaining, while addressing the challenges of high water levels and shoreline erosion. A riprap shoreline was installed for protection, incorporating dual access points for water entry and dock use. Bluestone steppers lead visitors through the lawn to a regraded lower patio, now unified with a natural stone inlay and enclosed by a boulder wall to create a generous gathering space. Native and ornamental plantings, focal trees, and subtle lighting complete a design that balances beauty, sustainability, and year-round interest.

Empire Garden

Location: Empire, leelanau County 

Set behind a traditional farmhouse in the hills of Leelanau County, this garden was designed as both a working space and a place to pause. Built around a central axis for symmetry and flow, the layout invites you through a cedar arbor draped in flowering vines and into a series of raised planting beds, framed by flagstone steppers and soft perennial borders. Cedar was used throughout—for its longevity, muted beauty, and quiet fit within the rural setting. Seasonal plantings were chosen not just for bloom, but for scent, texture, and the joy of cutting stems to bring indoors. A split rail fence defines the space, while layered lavender and herbs form a natural barrier against local wildlife. At each corner, peach trees rise above the beds, offering height and harvest. This is a space for growing, gathering, and simply being.

Long Lake Retreat

Location: Long Lake, Traverse City

This project transformed a steep, wooded lakeshore into a layered and usable landscape with direct access to Long Lake. The design centered around a new pool and patio, with a focus on creating comfortable, functional outdoor spaces that connect the house to the beach below.

One of the biggest challenges was managing the site’s elevation changes. We built over 200 tons of boulder retaining walls, some up to eight feet tall, to stabilize the slope and create usable terraces. These walls were planted with groundcovers and succulents that grow into the stone, helping with erosion control while softening the overall look.

Wide stone steps and planted paths lead through the site, tying the different levels together and guiding movement from the house down to the water. Plantings were chosen for durability and texture, using native and drought-tolerant species that blend with the natural surroundings and stay interesting through all seasons.

A fire feature is tucked into the lower level of the landscape, creating a quiet spot to gather and enjoy the view. Every material, from stone to planting, was selected to feel natural and timeless, with minimal upkeep. The result is a comfortable, low-maintenance retreat that makes the most of its lakeside setting.

Mid-Century on Lake Leelanau

Location: Leland, Michigan

This Lake Leelanau property was reimagined from the ground up to create a functional, low-maintenance landscape that reflects the clean lines and casual elegance of the mid-century home it surrounds. The design focused on outdoor living and movement, tying together the front entry, lakeside views, and multiple gathering spaces across a steep and complex site.

Dimensional New York full color flagstone was used to form the main patios and walkways, with irregular stone creating two circular lounge areas tucked into the landscape. Aging wooden stairs were replaced with natural stone steps, offering a safer and more cohesive path from the house to the lower walkout level.
Significant elevation changes required the construction of layered boulder retaining walls, which also formed tiered planting beds, one of which now supports a vegetable garden. Along the lakeshore, a natural buffer was preserved and enhanced with native wildflowers to attract pollinators, while newly planted privacy screening and cedar fencing provide structure and seclusion without taking away from the lake view.

Plantings were chosen to bring seasonal color and texture across the entire property, with thoughtful transitions between open and enclosed spaces. The result is a landscape that complements the home’s architecture while creating a practical and welcoming space to enjoy Lake Leelanau from every angle.

The Leelanau Valley House

Location: Cedar, Michigan 

Designed to complement this new home’s old-world log cabin style, the landscaping focuses on natural materials that feel timeless and authentic. Irregular flagstone walkways and hand-placed boulder walls create a rugged yet welcoming structure, while natural stone stairs blend seamlessly into the terrain. A rustic, boulder-lined fire pit anchors the backyard, offering a gathering space that overlooks panoramic views of the Leelanau Valley. Set on a working horse farm, the landscape balances function and beauty, framing the scenery while preserving the rustic character of the property.