Dream Backyard

A desire for a private, functional space for entertaining that was also safe for pets compelled Minnetonka, Minnesota, homeowners to undertake a backyard renovation. The result is an integrated, inviting space for the family, their two active Bichon Frise dogs, and friends. The homeowners now enjoy ample green space in their backyard and experience it as an extension of their home.

While the former yard had some great features which were retained in the new landscape – a small pond, gazebo and flagstone pathways around garden beds – a prominent slope restricted its use. “The old backyard was a continuous slope from our lower patio to the property line. There was no grass, only moss,” the homeowner says. The existing perennial gardens and paths were difficult to maintain because of the slope. “I love to garden but wanted something easier to maintain,” she says.

The yard transformation included the removal of several trees and elimination of the slope with truckloads of backfill and a 2,450-square foot retaining wall. The homeowners chose the Anchor™ Highland Stone® 6" multipiece wall systems for the large supporting retaining wall and the decorative walls.

A versatile product with an attractive, rough-textured face, the Highland Stone product was the perfect choice given the scale of the project.

The newly transformed landscape includes

• A wide, grassy area surrounded by a Highland Stone retaining wall
• A raised patio featuring a cedar screen and fire pit, framed by small Highland Stone freestanding walls
• Abundant planting space above the retaining walls

The best part is that we can all be out in the backyard together, having fun. It’s a yard we will enjoy for years to come.

Designing the yard was a true collaboration between the homeowners and their landscape contractor with whom they had worked on several projects. After much planning, brainstorming sessions and design iterations, the project came together quickly.

A myriad of backyard activities – gardening, entertaining, playing with the dogs, and even mowing – are now enjoyed by the homeowners.