The existing wall was a deteriorating timber wall that extended beyond the property line into a neighbor’s property. The homeowner wanted to replace the wall with something new, adjusting the layout so that the wall would stay within their property. 

We used Versa-Lok retaining wall blocks and step units. This material allowed us to adjust the layout of the wall, giving it a long sweeping curve.

The backyard is quite shaded, so the planting layout uses an assortment of shade-tolerant plants to provide foliage color and quick bursts of flowers. 

The front planting design mimics the rear design, though we could incorporate a few sun-loving plants in this space. The use of ferns, groundcovers, and other shade-tolerant plants “woodland garden” feel as they continue to grow and spread throughout the beds. 

This front yard enhancement successfully balanced the preservation of the existing features, such as the sidewalks and the stone walls, while carefully shifting the focal point to the simple selection of plantings. 

We selected plants that would thrive in a heavily shaded area while neighborhood deer visit for a treat throughout the year. The deer-resistant selection of plants included boxwoods, spruce, bergenia, geranium, salvia, and ligularia. 

It was important that we preserve existing features throughout this project, but the existing landscape lighting system had many fixtures and wiring issues. We installed a completely new system, taking advantage of low-voltage LED fixtures not only for efficiency but also for cost-effectiveness in comparison to high-voltage systems. 

The lighting system accents the brick features of the home as well as two massive oak trees in the front yard. This new lighting system provides curb appeal and peace of mind during darker hours.

This projected was completed by our team in Rochester, MN.  We’re also located in Sioux Falls, SD and Des Moines, IA.

Before this backyard renovation, there was a small, dark concrete patio that the client wanted to be transformed into a space that could be enjoyed by friends and family. 

The in-ground pool, installed by Thatcher Pools and Spas, was the focal point of this project. Weller Brothers extended the concrete patio that surrounds the pool into an additional seating area. The patio features a partially in-ground hot tub for a clean and cohesive design. 

Hosting in the Midwest is not complete without a fire pit. To utilize the slope of this client’s backyard to their advantage while creating an opportunity to extend the area, the Weller Brothers team added a Warming Trends gas fire pit two steps below the pool on Mattoni Patio Pavers and an elegant Brussels Block Border. 

We wrapped up this project by incorporating new plantings to provide our clients with a beautiful space where they can happily host family and friends for years to come.