Patio Pleasures

​A family in suburban Plymouth, Minnesota, opted for a deluxe outdoor space instead of a cabin. After living in their home for more than 20 years, they wanted a change. The couple scouted for ideas at home and garden shows as well as landscape centers. All their homework paid off in a backyard space that’s the envy of neighbors.

"In our old yard, the long sloping hillside off the concrete patio wouldn’t dry out and grow grass," the homeowner says. The family is thrilled with their new outdoor rooms featuring three seating areas on two levels—which take advantage of the existing slope—enclosed by a curved border of landscape rocks and perennials, shrubs and trees for easy maintenance.

In addition, the outdoor landscape features
• a pergola-covered seating area
• an outdoor kitchen and dining area
• a circular patio around a firepit, bordered by the Belair® retaining wall system and columns
• a water feature with a basalt column

The homeowners credit the work of their landscape designer who expanded their vision. "We had some basic criteria we wanted, such as the water feature. It was a cooperative effort, including the creation of the fire pit that we located 25 feet from structures to meet code," the homeowner says. 

The designer says the homeowners carefully selected their materials and Anchor™ products were a perfect fit. "They were very specific about what they wanted in terms of color and surfaces," he says. In addition to providing the neutral scheme the homeowners wanted, Belair freestanding walls provide extra seating. 

The Belair system lends itself for seating since it’s not a rough surface and gives an elegant look.

Enjoying the night skies, grilling and entertaining friends and family of all ages are a few of the family’s favorite activities. "For me, it’s about de-stressing, being outside and feeling connected to nature," the homeowner concludes.