The clients—an active family who see outdoor living as an extension of their home—wanted to transform an underused lakeside property. Notably, the project received a Gold Award of Excellence from the Wisconsin Landscape Contractors Association (WLCA) in March 2026. They envisioned a cohesive environment for dining, entertaining, and family time. Their criteria included distinct entertaining zones and seamless connections between the house, terrace, pool deck, and lakefront. In addition, they wanted a luxury pool and spa integrated into the natural setting. A covered pool house for cooking and gathering was also essential. Retaining walls were required to manage elevation, along with architectural and landscape lighting for nighttime use. Finally, they prioritized long-term durability through low-maintenance materials and climate-adapted plantings. Although the budget was not the primary driver, the clients expected a design that fully delivered the high-quality outcome they envisioned.
Before the Renovation
However, the existing landscape lacked function, organization, and visual appeal. It also offered little connection to the lake. Meanwhile, strict shoreland zoning and setback regulations guided structural decisions. These constraints dictated the placement of terraces, retaining walls, and the pool complex. In addition, a five-foot grade change across the build zone required two retaining walls and precise drainage solutions. Carefully placed trench drains protected the level pool deck and pool house. At the same time, construction occurred during a major home remodel. Therefore, the project required careful access management and close coordination among multiple contractors.
Addressing Challenges
To address these challenges, the design focused on tiered outdoor rooms stepping naturally toward the lake. Materials were chosen for permanence, safety, and visual continuity. These included Unilock Natural Stone in Ivory Sand and Unilock TownHall in Basalt. Fond du Lac outcroppings and cut wall stone added regional character. St. Mary’s natural stone steps provided durable transitions between levels. Together, these materials offered dense, non-slip surfaces suited to freeze–thaw conditions. They also complemented the home’s interior finishes. Meanwhile, plantings introduced a muted, climate-resilient palette. Species included Triumph elms, Canadian redbuds, viburnum, hydrangea, shrub roses, phlox, peonies, hosta, ornamental grasses, and vinca. As a result, the landscape gained softer edges and four-season interest.
Construction Phase
Equally important, craftsmanship played a central role in the project’s success. The stepped hardscape required a precise layout within regulatory boundaries. In addition, large boulders were integrated into tiered retaining walls to create natural transitions. A phased sequencing strategy guided construction. This process coordinated stonework, pool installation, electrical systems, plumbing, irrigation, lighting, planting, and turf.
Maintenance Considerations
Furthermore, maintenance considerations were incorporated into the design. The system includes drip irrigation and a smart controller for efficient watering. Plant selections emphasize low-shear growth and easy care. Although newly installed, the landscape is already beginning to establish structure and cohesion. Plantings are settling in, while the hardscape anchors the design.
The Final Product
Ultimately, the finished landscape reflects understated elegance and functional harmony. It offers an intuitive flow between lively gathering areas and quiet spaces for reflection. The clients responded with great enthusiasm. In fact, they shared that the completed landscape exceeded their original vision.
Contact Us
Landmark Landscapes of Sheboygan Falls, WI, is a full-service landscape company. Based out of Sheboygan County, with a Green Lake, Wisconsin, satellite office. We are centrally located and uniquely positioned to service the areas of Sheboygan, Elkhart Lake, Fond Du Lac County, Green Lake County, Ozaukee County, Manitowoc County, and Door County. We can manage your property with our Total Property Care system, and design and build projects large and small. Contact us today at 920-467-6442 to learn how we can care for you.
