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This backyard transformation overcame the challenges of an extremely steep slope through the construction of a three-tiered retaining wall system, designed with clean Omega smooth walls and finished with modern capstones. Integrated undercap lighting and uplighting bring depth and atmosphere to the space after dark. A sitting wall was built directly into the retaining wall, providing functional seating and structural cohesion. The main entertaining space features a luxurious travertine tile patio with a striking custom artificial turf inlay that adds both elegance and definition. A fully functional outdoor kitchen, faced in brick to match the home’s foundation, anchors the lower patio area alongside a dedicated dining space and lounge area for relaxation and hosting. The elevation changes are navigated via custom staircases with artificial turf-covered landings, blending form with functionality while softening the transition between levels. Grading and seeding were completed to establish new lawn areas, and privacy-enhancing arborvitae were planted along the sides and back of the property. Additional features include artificial turf on the staircase steps, thoughtful planting throughout, and a carefully engineered layout that brings luxury outdoor living to a challenging landscape.
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A luxurious multi-level outdoor space featuring a travertine patio, custom dining and lounge areas, and tiered retaining walls with undercap lighting. Artificial turf-covered landings break up the stone staircase leading up the steep yard, while boxwoods and seasonal plantings add greenery. The design blends structure, function, and elegance with seamless elevation transitions.
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A beautifully designed patio featuring travertine tile, modern lounge seating, a fire pit, and a built-in sitting wall with accent lighting. The space also includes a bar-height counter and dining area, all set against a backdrop of tiered retaining walls, lush plantings, and privacy arborvitae for a refined, functional outdoor living area.
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This photo captures a multi-tiered backyard carved into a steep slope, featuring Omega Smooth Wallstone retaining walls and wide staircases with artificial turf landings. A travertine patio with custom turf inlay anchors the space, while integrated uplighting and cap lighting highlight the structure and plantings. Privacy landscaping and mature trees frame the scene, creating a private, elegant outdoor retreat.
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This image showcases the travertine patio featuring a custom artificial turf inlay, creating a bold geometric pattern. The space includes an inviting lounge area under a covered pergola, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, and a built-in dining space. Privacy plantings and retaining walls with integrated lighting provide structure, seclusion, and ambiance.
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This view highlights the extensive grade change, with multiple tiers of Omega Smooth Wallstone retaining walls managing the extreme slope. Integrated cap lighting softly illuminates the steps and walls, while neatly manicured plantings and privacy evergreens create structure and seclusion. The design maximizes usable lawn space while maintaining a natural, cohesive flow.
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This photo highlights the layered retaining walls constructed with Omega Smooth Wallstone, showcasing the grade transitions. Integrated cap lighting provides soft evening illumination, while structured plantings and custom-built planters add texture and balance.
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This close-up highlights the travertine patio with a custom artificial turf inlay, creating a clean geometric pattern that complements the home’s modern architecture.
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This image showcases the built-in seating area framed by Omega Smooth Wallstone, with integrated cap lighting and plush cushions surrounding a modern fire feature. The terraced retaining walls and privacy plantings beyond create depth, structure, and a cozy outdoor gathering space within the expansive travertine patio.
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The front of the home features clean, modern landscaping with simple foundation plantings and accent lighting that complement the home’s architecture. Minimalist design provides a polished curb appeal while remaining low-maintenance and part of our ongoing weekly landscape maintenance program.
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A detailed view of the simple, elegant foundation plantings featuring neatly manicured boxwoods along the home’s brick and stucco facade. Clean bed edges, healthy turf, and accent lighting create a crisp, low-maintenance design that’s maintained weekly as part of our landscape care program.
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The extreme slope presented a significant design and construction challenge, requiring extensive excavation, grading, and retaining wall installation to create usable outdoor living spaces. Early construction shows the first tier of Omega Smooth Wallstone being set to establish the multi-level design.
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Initial construction phase showing the early stages of wall installation with Omega Smooth Wallstone. The extreme slope required precise engineering and multi-tiered retaining wall construction to create functional, level spaces for the future patio, lawn, and plantings.
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During construction, significant site work and heavy equipment were required to manage the steep grade and establish stable footings for the multi-tiered retaining walls. The photo captures the complex excavation and initial wall construction stages that laid the groundwork for the finished outdoor living space.
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This plan outlines the full scope of work completed—from the front yard landscaping to the backyard hardscape installation, including the patio, outdoor kitchen, tiered retaining walls, integrated lighting, and landscape plantings. Additional projects in the upper tier are to be completed by the customer at a later stage.
Watchung Fork Design & Build
Category
Exterior Categories > Residential Design/Build > $100,000 to $500,000 > $250,000 to $500,000
Description
Company: Landscape Solutions
Designer: Bill Schau
Winner Status
- Award Level 1 - Gold