fresh blooms and natural stone: a spring landscape project in the western suburbs

we’re kicking off spring with a beautiful backyard project in the western suburbs of chicago, and honestly, it’s the kind of work that reminds me why i love what i do. we’re working with homeowners in plainfield to transform their outdoor space into something more inviting, functional, and in tune with how they actually live—dogs, entertaining, muddy feet and all.

we started by carving out new landscape beds to soften the edges of their existing patio and bring in all the spring and summer color. these beds are getting packed with a beautiful mix of flowering shrubs and evergreens that do well here in zone 5. lilacs will kick off the show in spring with that classic purple bloom and sweet, nostalgic scent. viburnum follows with creamy white flowers and gorgeous fall color. roses will bring continuous blooms and fragrance all summer long, and hydrangeas will offer big, dramatic flower heads in pinks and whites depending on the time of year. for structure, we’re adding junipers and boxwoods—great for year-round green, low maintenance, and they hold up well to dog activity.

but it’s not just about the plants—we’re also adding an eden outcropping stone retaining wall that’s both practical and beautiful. this natural stone, quarried in wisconsin, has a creamy white base with hints of rust and grey that give it a warm, earthy look. the wall will define the edge of the patio, help control mud from dog traffic, and create a natural transition from the lawn to the paved space. plus, it gives the homeowners a little extra room for gathering, lounging, and enjoying their backyard.

this kind of project is exactly what spring is about—renewal, beauty, and thoughtful design that works with your lifestyle. if you're in naperville, plainfield, batavia, geneva, wheaton, downers grove, lisle, or anywhere nearby, and you're dreaming up something fresh for your outdoor space, let’s talk. spring is the perfect time to dig in.