From Fake Grass to Lush Northwest Beauty: A Backyard Transformation Rooted in Nature
Before
Sometimes, the best backyard renovations start with a simple goal: make it feel like home. For this project, our client came to us looking to turn their underwhelming yard—complete with crumbling walls and artificial turf—into a natural, functional, and low-maintenance space that invites both people and pollinators to linger a little longer.
They had a clear vision:
✅ Replace the fake grass with native, insect-friendly plants
✅ Repair a failing retaining wall
✅ Create a space to entertain, relax, read, dine, and enjoy nature
✅ Retain existing trees and reduce ongoing maintenance
After
Designing for Nature, Beauty, and Function
We started by removing the grass and replacing it with a curated palette of Northwest-friendly plants that offer year-round beauty and support local wildlife—especially pollinators like bees and butterflies.
🌿 Plant Palette Highlights:
Orange New Zealand Sedge & Blue Fescue – Grasses with color and texture that stay neat with minimal care
Little Spire Russian Sage & Salmon Beauty Yarrow – Pollinator favorites with beautiful blooms
Agapanthus, Fountain Grass, and White Gaura – For seasonal interest and soft movement in the wind
Silver Mugwort – A hardy, silvery accent plant that ties everything together
A low-growing selection was used near egress windows to keep light and visibility open, and a new dry bed with river rock and hardy ground covers now helps with drainage while adding a sculptural element.
Creating a Place to Be
To make the yard more usable year-round, we designed and installed a 12' x 12' covered seating area—perfect for relaxing, dining, or gathering with friends and family. An attached open-roof flex space provides an airy transition and doubles the functionality.
The new 12' x 5' garden shed, cleverly attached to the pergola, offers storage without taking up additional space. We matched the concrete slab stepping stones to the existing front yard for a cohesive flow throughout the property.
A concrete pad with wraparound steps invites guests into the space and helps define it with intention and ease.
Structural Improvements That Make a Difference
We removed the crumbling retaining wall and replaced it with sloped beds supported by large natural boulders—a more organic look that adds depth and texture.
To maintain privacy and tie the space together, we also replaced the fence to match the existing design on the east side of the yard.
For quieter lounging and a touch of serenity, we introduced Star Jasmine near the AC unit—doubling as a sound barrier and aromatic feature.
A Backyard That Reflects the Pacific Northwest
This yard now tells a new story: one rooted in natural textures, native plants, and intentional design choices that make outdoor living effortless and beautiful.
