The home owners are empty nesters and wanted to have a landscape that is very low maintenance, fits in with the surrounding area, and is attractive and colorful during the summer.

During the design process there were a few meetings on-site, to try to determine the needs of the client coupled with the needs of the site. The home had not been started when the design was undertaken. There were a few challenges regarding the design of the landscape. One issue was the home was located in a Critical Dune Area. A Critical Dune Area requires a DEQ permit before construction is allowed. Also we had to pay special attention to the planting material as to not introduce and species that could potentially be invasive and damage the existing ecosystem. We wanted to use as many native plants as possible anyway in order to enhance sustainability. One other main design restriction was the size of the house in regards to the size of the site. The size of the house made it difficult to maneuver machinery and materials onto the small 75' lot. Sand had to be removed and hauled back in because there wasn't enough room during construction.

During this process we had to be very careful to not disturb the dune surrounding the cottage. The owners also wanted to build four large limestone planters in front and also decking on the lake side. The home, pathways and deck that were built are almost completely barrier free. Large limestone was placed on the south side of the cottage to allow for daylight windows. Low limestone retaining walls and steps were placed in front to make the grade change and also add interest. Quartz stone walkways were used throughout the porches and walkways to compliment the color of the home and limestone. Dune grass and ornamental grasses were used extensively. Perennials were used to provide color. Extensive low voltage lighting was used throughout the entire Landscape.