This is a gorgeous spot located on a little lake in Bella Vista, AR. The very steep grade of the backyard going down to the lake presented many challenges. The sidewalk leading down to the lake is so steep that you have to almost lean backward to walk down it. The homeowners were almost unable to use this entire backyard safely. They just had their house built and the landscaping was overlooked. Our challenge make the backyard more family-friendly on a budget while the homeowners take a break while deciding their long-term backyard expectations.
Landscaping Steep Yards On A Budget
2 J’s loves to work with a landscaping design challenge. Blank canvases sometimes impose a landscape design challenge all of their own when it comes to budget. 2 J’s loves to work with customers on a budget. We have helped many customers understand that landscaping is a constantly changing and never-ending canvas. Once the main idea and bones of a project are decided and laid out well, the rest can come later.
Staying On Budget For A New Landscape
Adding plants to a new landscape design can be similar to the choice of choosing between grass seed or grass sod. Smaller plants are most often cheaper than more mature plants. Unlike with sod smaller plants are not always the best option because a more mature or larger plant can often withstand more stress than a smaller less mature plant.
2 J’s & Sons Landscaper Pro Budgeting Tip
When it comes to plants if you do not have the time or irrigation set up to care for new plants diligently go with the more mature plant. More plants can always be added later to fill in bare spots. It may take a few years to reach your desired outcome. Our most cost-effective tip is to take it slow so you know what you want from your landscape. Waiting can often lead to a more cost-effective low-maintenance landscape that meshes better with daily life. If you have time to care for new plants then choose smaller plants and grass seed.
Before Landscaping Started
During Landscaping Retaining Walls
The entire backyard was originally covered in gravel with only two retaining walls. You can see the first section of the terraced retaining wall up by the house. Builders often just put a smooth grade on the areas surrounding a newly built house while the owners decide how they would like it to be finished.
The gravel below the original wall has all been cleared away. The first native stone walkway is in the process of being laid out.
The first terraced native stone retaining wall is starting to come together.
The bottom terraced retaining wall was raised. These blocks are a product made by Keystone. They are very durable and engineered for support. We would recommend them for any similar projects, they will do their job for a very long time.
This is the native stone sitting area built on top of one of the retaining walls. The perfect place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee, or just look at the lake.
We can’t wait for the newly terraced retaining wall areas to fill in with grass, and maybe sedum or another ground cover to add more color. The homeowners now have a very nice sitting area and can safely bring their paddleboat to and from the lake. Their landscaping journey has just started and we can’t wait to see what they decide.