This stunning Rear Yard Retreat exudes simplicity and elegance in its design. The stone terrace not only provides a beautiful outdoor space but also serves a functional purpose by managing stormwater runoff through carved stone drains and underground gravel areas. Carefully crafted tree boxes seamlessly integrate London Planetrees with the terrace, creating a harmonious blend of nature and architecture. Linear stone slab steps maximize yard space, catering to the needs of the active family while complementing the overall design. The fully equipped outdoor kitchen is ideal for hosting gatherings, whether for a few close friends or the entire neighborhood. Subtle night lighting adds ambiance, allowing the outdoor spaces to be enjoyed day and night. The planting palette, though understated, radiates elegance and offers year-round interest with its diverse textures. This Rear Yard Retreat is not just a space—it’s a masterpiece of thoughtful design and functionality, perfectly tailored to meet the needs of the modern family.

The team at JMR Landscaping not only enhanced the entrance to the rear garden, but also created a unique vegetable/herb garden. JMR skillfully incorporated plants to add vibrant colors and diverse textures, enhancing visual interest throughout the space. With their expertise, the garden now boasts a harmonious blend of natural elements, inviting guests to explore and delight in its beauty.

The JMR team played an integral role in the design, construction, and oversight of this Lake Front Manor, orchestrating every aspect from the rear facade of the house to the serene shores of the Lake. With the client’s vision of hosting a grand annual Independence Day celebration, the spaces were meticulously crafted to balance everyday comfort with the flexibility to accommodate large gatherings. Along the beachfront, large armature stones not only safeguard the shoreline but also serve as steps leading down to a cozy firepit on the beach. Also protected by this wall is a ramp, providing convenient access for the clients to utilize a mobile boat launcher and safely store their watercraft inside the beach house when not in use.

Our team embarked on the rewarding journey of restoring a picturesque 20-acre farmstead nestled in the heart of the north shore. What began as a simple buckthorn removal project soon evolved into a comprehensive restoration effort of this historic property. Dividing the project into thoughtful, manageable phases—such as the front driveway entry, parking court, and ‘Green House Garden’—we meticulously preserved the farm’s rustic charm in every detail. Drawing inspiration from the farm’s rich heritage, our design process prioritized intricate detailing of hardscape elements and the careful selection of plant materials. Native plantings were seamlessly integrated to harmonize with the architecture, honoring the land’s agricultural legacy. Despite encountering unforeseen challenges from the site’s past, such as remnant farm field drain tiles, our team navigated each obstacle with resourcefulness and expertise. Every phase of the project was meticulously planned and executed with precision, culminating in the realization of the farmstead vision of Shagbark. Through our efforts, we ensured the preservation of its historic charm for generations to come, leaving a lasting legacy of beauty and heritage.

This landscape design was a complete overhaul, with only key trees remaining from the previous outdated landscape. JMR’s design team navigated restrictive municipality regulations to align the client’s desires with what was permissible. Creative stormwater management solutions, such as buried pipes to offset impermeable surfaces, were implemented on-site. The clients’ fondness for hosting parties, ranging from intimate gatherings to large graduation celebrations, drove the need for versatile spaces. Blending the raised rear terrace with the pool deck maximized usable areas while defining distinct outdoor rooms. During pool excavation, unexpected soil conditions required a substantial gravel base, doubling as part of the stormwater detention system. The client’s preference for a sophisticated aesthetic extended to the installation of golf course-style sod on the expansive play lawn. Despite encountering unforeseen challenges during construction, creative solutions were seamlessly integrated, leaving the clients thrilled with the final result.

Despite numerous municipality restrictions on the site, the JMR team collaborated closely with the architect to devise creative solutions for stormwater management, including a sunken play lawn and concealed underground storage tanks. The pool cabana was thoughtfully designed as a seamless extension of the family’s existing home, featuring living space, a full chef-grade outdoor kitchen, and multiple fireplaces. No expense was spared on materials, ensuring a harmonious blend of the new landscape with the existing residence. The meticulous attention to detail extended to the stone paving, which was carved to conceal drain covers and pool jets. Natural stone paving, stone veneer, and custom water features were carefully selected and designed to create a year-round paradise perfect for entertaining.