From the very start, the clients shared that their backyard was their retreat. Investing in a personal paradise within their own property lines mattered more to them than taking a tropical vacation. The sloping yard leading down to a woodland creek immediately presented a canvas with tremendous potential—one they hoped could become a natural, restorative escape.
The clients’ top priority was stabilizing and rebuilding the bank of the creek that runs through their property, all while maintaining the woodland character of the area they loved. Seasonal storms caused the creek’s water levels to rise, which threatened to erode the bank and routinely flooded the lower portion of the yard. The site’s steep grade and mature woodland setting required a solution that felt organic, avoided manufactured materials, and blended seamlessly into the environment.
The redesigned space strengthens the creek bank, protects the property from seasonal flooding, and preserves the woodland atmosphere the clients treasure. As the plantings have established over the past few years, the landscape continues to mature into a vibrant, secluded escape from the hustle and bustle of the growing Columbus metro area.
To create a long-term, naturalistic stabilization system, large stone slabs and boulders were used to reinforce the creek bank without introducing artificial materials. As construction progressed, the clients were so thrilled with the improved view down to the creek that they asked for a dedicated space to enjoy it. Our crew cleared and shaped a small area along the bank to create a peaceful retreat for a bench—perfect for quiet, creekside relaxation.
Higher up the hillside, the home featured a small deck off a 3-season room. The clients wanted more space to enjoy elevated views of their newly improved creek edge, as well as a way to take advantage of the property’s unique elevation changes. We expanded the usable outdoor area using a palette of natural stone materials paired with composite decking and weathered wall block to create a seamless transition between built and natural environments.
A gas firepit was integrated into the outer retaining wall, extending enjoyment of the space throughout the year. A built-in grill on the patio makes outdoor cooking convenient without the need for propane tanks. Woodland plants—including native understory perennials and small trees suited to the dappled shade of the existing mature canopy—were added to enhance the lush, woodland feel.
Project Challenges
The clients’ top priority was stabilizing and rebuilding the bank of the creek that runs through their property, all while maintaining the woodland character of the area they loved. Seasonal storms caused the creek’s water levels to rise, which threatened to erode the bank and routinely flooded the lower portion of the yard. The site’s steep grade and mature woodland setting required a solution that felt organic, avoided manufactured materials, and blended seamlessly into the environment.
Our Approach
To create a long-term, naturalistic stabilization system, large stone slabs and boulders were used to reinforce the creek bank without introducing artificial materials. As construction progressed, the clients were so thrilled with the improved view down to the creek that they asked for a dedicated space to enjoy it. Our crew cleared and shaped a small area along the bank to create a peaceful retreat for a bench—perfect for quiet, creekside relaxation.
Higher up the hillside, the home featured a small deck off a 3-season room. The clients wanted more space to enjoy elevated views of their newly improved creek edge, as well as a way to take advantage of the property’s unique elevation changes. We expanded the usable outdoor area using a palette of natural stone materials paired with composite decking and weathered wall block to create a seamless transition between built and natural environments.
A gas firepit was integrated into the outer retaining wall, extending enjoyment of the space throughout the year. A built-in grill on the patio makes outdoor cooking convenient without the need for propane tanks. Woodland plants—including native understory perennials and small trees suited to the dappled shade of the existing mature canopy—were added to enhance the lush, woodland feel.
The Results
The redesigned space strengthens the creek bank, protects the property from seasonal flooding, and preserves the woodland atmosphere the clients treasure. As the plantings have established over the past few years, the landscape continues to mature into a vibrant, secluded escape from the hustle and bustle of the growing Columbus metro area.
