Sometimes a project comes together so perfectly that we can’t wait to share it. This was one of those.
The Problem
The homeowners called us last spring, frustrated. They’d bought their house in North Asheville specifically for the mountain views, but their backyard wasn’t letting them enjoy it.
The yard was basically a rectangle of grass sloping toward the house, with foundation shrubs that blocked the lower windows. No place to sit. No real garden to speak of. Just boring and underutilized.
They’d been living there for two years and barely used their outdoor space. That needed to change.
What They Wanted
They wanted a patio where they could have morning coffee and watch the sunrise over the mountains. They wanted garden beds with color and texture. They wanted the view to be the star, not an afterthought.
They also needed better drainage because water was running toward the foundation during heavy rains. That had to be fixed regardless.
Budget was moderate but not unlimited. We had to be smart about where we put the money.
The Design
We proposed a raised stone patio positioned to capture both the mountain view and morning sun. By raising it up, we also solved the drainage issue by creating a subtle grade away from the house.
We removed most of the boring foundation shrubs and replaced them with lower, more interesting plantings that wouldn’t block windows or views.
We created two curved garden beds that swept down the slope, using native plants that would handle the site conditions and require minimal maintenance. The curves followed the natural contours and made the yard feel bigger.
We added a simple stone path connecting the patio to the driveway, giving them a reason to walk through the garden.
The Installation
The project took about two weeks. We started by addressing the drainage, installing French drains and regrading the slope. This wasn’t glamorous work, but it was essential.
Next came the patio. We used natural bluestone because it fits the mountain setting and ages beautifully. The patio ended up about 12×16 feet – big enough for a table and chairs without overwhelming the space.
Then we installed the beds and plants. We used a mix of native perennials, ornamental grasses, and a few small shrubs for structure. The plant palette was mostly purples, yellows, and silvers that would look good together but not compete with the view.
We finished with the path and fresh mulch throughout the beds.
The Results
The transformation was dramatic. The yard went from something they avoided to their favorite room in the house.
The patio gets used almost every morning when weather permits. They’ve had friends over for dinners. They’ve discovered they actually enjoy being outside.
The garden beds fill in more every year, and maintenance is minimal. They spend maybe an hour every couple weeks on upkeep, mostly deadheading and occasional weeding.
The drainage problem is completely solved. No more water pooling near the foundation.
What Made It Work
We listened. They didn’t need an elaborate, high-maintenance garden. They needed a simple, functional space that enhanced their views and gave them a place to sit.
We fixed the real problems first. The drainage issue would have undermined everything else if we hadn’t addressed it.
We used the right plants for the site. Everything we planted was chosen for that specific location’s sun, soil, and exposure. They’re thriving because they’re in the right place.
We kept the design simple. A few strong elements executed well beats a cluttered design every time.
What They Say Now
“We should have done this years ago. We literally bought the house for the view and then never sat outside to enjoy it. Now we’re out here all the time. It’s become our favorite part of the house.”
That’s what we’re after. Not just a pretty yard, but a space that genuinely improves how you live.
Your Project
Every property has potential, even if you can’t see it yet. That’s what we do – we see what could be there and make it happen.
If your yard isn’t working for you, let’s talk. We’ll figure out what’s possible and what it would take to get you there.
