--- title: "Van Zelst Inc — Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/van-zelst-inc-pfvwus-pf~788892720 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~788892720.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Van Zelst Inc" category: ["Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/a4c3851701128b4e_8499-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "39400 U.S. 41, Wadsworth, Illinois 60083, United States" latitude: 42.446 longitude: -87.904 phone: "(847) 623-3580" website: http://www.vanzelst.com rating: 4.9 review_count: 88 best_of_houzz_awards: 12 followers: 206 last_updated: 2026-08-17 --- # Van Zelst Inc > Landscapes that Burst with Color and Look Great all Year Long Original Houzz profile: [Van Zelst Inc](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/van-zelst-inc-pfvwus-pf~788892720) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers - **Location:** Wadsworth, IL - **Serves:** Chicago, Waukegan, Evanston, Palatine, Glenview, Buffalo Grove, Crystal Lake, Park Ridge, Northbrook, Mundelein, Gurnee, Highland Park, Wilmette, Vernon Hills, Grayslake, Libertyville, Lake Zurich, Lake Forest, Deerfield, Antioch, Lindenhurst, Winnetka, Barrington, Hawthorn Woods, Glencoe, Long Grove, Lincolnshire, Inverness, Lake Bluff, Northfield, Highwood, Green Oaks, Riverwoods, Wadsworth, Kenilworth, Bannockburn, Mettawa, Golf, Lake Geneva - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (88 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2014–2026), for Service, Design. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Houzz Pro Software User - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 50,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner ### Business highlights - Best of Houzz winner Meet the award-winning landscape architects at Van Zelst. For over 40 years, Van Zelst has provided complete design, installation and maintenance services throughout Chicago's North Shore and Wisconsin's Lake Geneva area. Look to us for year-round landscapes with breathtaking color, elegant outdoor kitchens and living areas, and expertly installed stonework, all designed around your lifestyle. ### Services Provided - Landscape Design - Garden Design - Hardscaping - Landscape Plans - Patio Design - Drought Tolerant Landscaping - Site Planning - Pool Landscaping - Custom Fire Pits - Swimming Pool Design - Custom Water Features - Gazebo Design & Construction - Design Consultation - Deck Design - 3D Rendering - Organic Gardens - Edible Gardens - Custom Bocce Ball Courts - Dog Run Construction - Landscape Maintenance ### Areas Served - Chicago - Waukegan - Evanston - Palatine - Glenview - Buffalo Grove - Crystal Lake - Park Ridge - Northbrook - Mundelein - Gurnee - Highland Park - Wilmette - Vernon Hills - Grayslake - Libertyville - Lake Zurich - Lake Forest - Deerfield - Antioch - Lindenhurst - Winnetka - Barrington - Hawthorn Woods - Glencoe - Long Grove - Lincolnshire - Inverness - Lake Bluff - Northfield - Highwood - Green Oaks - Riverwoods - Wadsworth - Kenilworth - Bannockburn - Mettawa - Golf - Lake Geneva ### Typical Job Cost $15,000 - 450,000 ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Van Zelst Inc | | Address | 39400 U.S. 41, Wadsworth, Illinois 60083, United States | | Phone | (847) 623-3580 | | Website | http://www.vanzelst.com | | License Number | IL 157000110 / WI 159-14 | | Followers on Houzz | 206 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/vanzelstlandscaping/ - Blog — https://www.vanzelst.com ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Van Zelst Inc](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/van-zelst-inc-pfvwus-pf~788892720) - **Website:** http://www.vanzelst.com - **Phone:** (847) 623-3580 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - Numerous ILCA, PLANET, and ASLA awards. See www.vanzelst.com for details. - **Best of Houzz:** 12 awards (2014–2026), for Service, Design. **Affiliations** - [American Society of Landscape Architects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/american-society-of-landscape-architects-pfvwus-pf~2014062207) ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 88 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 50.0 - Communication: 49.0 - Value: 46.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Lorraine, June 2026** > The company is very dependable and take pried in their work. Everything that was moved to cut grass was returned to the original location. Weeds were pulled by hand. My landscaper never looked this good. **★★★★★ — Lindsey M., Dec. 2025** > Working with David and Working with David has been an absolute pleasure. He’s incredibly personable and always made the effort to come out in person for our conversations, which made the entire process feel thoughtful and collaborative. He provided clear visuals of different design options, making it so much easier to make confident decisions. While his services aren’t the cheapest, the level of care, attention, and high-touch service he provides is truly worth it. I felt genuinely taken care of every step of the way. Highly recommend! **★★★★★ — Patrick, Sept. 2025** > Dave and the whole Van Zelst team did a wonderful job for us on a rather complex outdoor hardscape project. We would definitely recommend! **★★★★★ — HU-701185183, Sept. 2025** > Highest quality in workmanship and materials. They reconditioned and reset my bluestone front porch. Looked as good as the day it was originally installed. **★★★★★ — HU-748428307, July 2024** > Professional, thorough, and responsive. Great work. Family run business. Works with your schedule and budget. Would recommend to anyone looking for great service. **★★★★★ — HU-96411353, July 2024** > Van Zelst Inc is an outstanding quality landscape service company and more. My family has used their services for many years. David, the owner, Beth in the office and his landscape team go above and beyond the norm. You'll be taken care of and I highly recommend Van Zelst Inc. **★★★★★ — HU-125456565, July 2024** > Professional, on time , creative and now our yard is the envy of our neighbors. Regular communication as promised and exceedingly friendly work staff . Excellent coordination with irrigation and lighting company as well **★★★★★ — Don Adams, Nov. 2023** > Could not ask for better service, yard looks great. Looking forward to doing business with Vanzelst again in the future. > Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. **★★★★★ — Mary Amato, Oct. 2023** > Excellent company. Not inexpensive but they do it right. Have used them twice for big jobs (regrading for water mitigation, new driveway, redesign of landscaping on large lot as well as a new terrace on downsize). Work people are knowledgeable, friendly and thorough. Highly recommend. **★★★★★ — Rachel K, Aug. 2023** > We loved working with David and his crew. Dave helped break our giant project into smaller easier to manage steps so that we can start enjoying our garden right away as well as spread out the cost over time. He came up with a game plan to give us a chance to work on a few things ourselves in order to stay on budget. His crew was professional and they are true craftsmen. We have already decided to do another project with VanZelst next spring. His approach to business is to develop long-term clients, not just one and done. He cares about his job. They are top shelf! **★★★★★ — HU-456315720, June 2023** > My existing gardens were in need of a major makeover. The landscape project is taking place in phases. I’m grateful that I reached out to Van Zelst. I appreciate the professionalism, talent and sound recommendations. > DaShan is performing a wonderful revitalization and landscape transformation. I also wish to compliment Bill and Art and a shout-out to their hardworking and kind installation and maintenance crews. Another shout-out > to the friendly office staff. > I’m enjoying the gardens and noticed a lot of wildlife- butterflies and hummingbirds- enjoying the gardens too! > The Van Zelst team is top-notch! **★★★★★ — Tom Klimmeck, June 2023** > Van Zelst designed and installed the landscaping and hardscaping plan for our 170’ x 200’ single family residential lot in two stages in 2015 and 2016. They have been contracted to provide ongoing maintenance and upkeep pretty much since that time. They showed careful planning in the sizing and placement of the initial plantings where the various plants, bushes and trees have matured into a very pleasant visual experience. There has been little crowding and very little mortality of much of anything. We receive nothing but compliments from friends and strangers alike. > > Their initial and ongoing recommendations were and are spot on and their current advice is spot on. If you want a cheap lawn service that cuts your grass and moves quickly this will not be a fit for you. If you want something that is more comprehensive and professional this is the team for you. ## Selected projects - [Native Lakeside Planting Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/native-lakeside-planting-retreat-pj-vj~6994693) - Location: Barrington, IL - Photos: 11 - [Best House on The Street for Summer Pool Parties and Football Night Grilling!](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/best-house-on-the-street-for-summer-pool-parties-and-football-night-grilling-pj-vj~7058969) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 12 - Description: What a transformation this backyard received! Going from a small patio and outdoor kitchen area, into now a multi zoned family entertainment oasis was truly magical. From dipping your toes in a raised stone heated spa or diving deep into a large 20x40 pool on a hot summer day, this backyard has it all. The outdoor kitchen/dining area is full of Kalamazoo products to make any grilling enthusiast smile with excitement. Heated mounted lamps and evening lighting was added so the family was able to e… - [Lighting up the Garden for Evening Entertainment in Lake Forest, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lighting-up-the-garden-for-evening-entertainment-in-lake-forest-il-pj-vj~7065145) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 5 - Description: Set within a quiet and private property that backs up to a natural river, this dining patio, lower lounge, and raised fire pit were perfect additions to the original outdoor spaces. On approach, the natural outcropping steps lead one to an intimate event setting with lush green views. Invitingly so, the bluestone with cobble-edge glows beneath the warm cedar pergola with festive bistro lights. Day or night, one can find solitude or song in this oasis, as it offers both a sense of arrival and bel… - [Landscape Transformed by Bold Colors and Strong Lines](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/landscape-transformed-by-bold-colors-and-strong-lines-pj-vj~6358138) - Location: Wilmette, IL - Photos: 18 - Description: One of the most appealing elements of the home's entry was the painted white railings flanking the front steps. This profile was mimicked in the backyard to help unify the landscape design. Likewise, once the stone was selected for the backyard terraces—a unique flagstone that shimmers in the sun—it was used to upgrade the plain concrete steps to the front door. Along the side of the home, a concrete-and-grass driveway was replaced with brick pavers bordered by a clean, cobble edge. Pavers also… - [Wisconsin Lake House Retreat](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wisconsin-lake-house-retreat-pj-vj~7071959) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - [Grand Entrance in Glencoe](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/grand-entrance-in-glencoe-pj-vj~5964425) - Location: Glencoe, IL - Photos: 8 - Description: Complete makeover of the front entry garden and driveway featuring natural clay pavers, cut stone walls, slab stone steps, and densely planted mixed beds. - [Family Landscape Ready for Summer Entertaining](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/family-landscape-ready-for-summer-entertaining-pj-vj~2571223) - Location: Wadsworth, IL - Photos: 26 - Description: ++ The Before ++ A vast, sloping expanse of grass defined the home's landscape, and left the home feeling imposing and stark. Like a blank canvas, there wasn't much to retain beyond a few mature trees flanking the sides of the home. The homeowner reached out to Van Zelst to transform the property, creating an inviting first impression for guests and turning the side and rear gardens into a haven for entertaining. ++ Finding Balance in Scale and Symmetry ++ The front garden and entry were redesig… - [Winnetka, IL Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/winnetka-il-residence-pj-vj~2845068) - Location: Winnetka, IL - Photos: 14 - [Landscape Designers Dream Home in Bristol Wisconsin](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/landscape-designers-dream-home-in-bristol-wisconsin-pj-vj~2294738) - Location: Bristol, WI - Photos: 21 - Description: http://www.vanzelst.com With a whole career spent preparing for his own landscape, this Van Zelst landscape designer and his architect wife were excited to put their ideas to work at home. The family purchased a small house on 13 acres of wooded land just north of the Illinois-Wisconsin border, with plans to create their dream home. First, they got to work redesigning and expanding the existing house. A barn and garage were removed, opening up some of the property's best views, and the house gre… - [Colorful Outdoor Living in Glenview](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/colorful-outdoor-living-in-glenview-pj-vj~1514116) - Location: Glenview, IL - Photos: 27 - Description: Sometimes, a blank slate can be more challenging than starting to work from existing hardscape or design elements. That wasn't the case this Glenview homeowner, who had a clear vision and landscape design ideas from the start. The goal was to blend a serene Tuscany-inspired aesthetic with the graciousness of a high-end resort, and generously mix in the beautiful perennials native to the Midwest. After taking ownership of the spectacular property, the original home was torn down to make way for a… - [Outcropping Stone Retaining Wall and Perennial Plantings in Bull Valley, IL](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/outcropping-stone-retaining-wall-and-perennial-plantings-in-bull-valley-il-pj-vj~2318068) - Location: Bull Valley, IL - Photos: 8 - Description: Nestled amid acres and acres of woodland in quiet Bull Valley, Illinois, this longtime Van Zelst client found the solitude and natural beauty they were looking for. Initially, there was no home on the property, so even before the owners had one built to their specifications, the Van Zelst team stepped in. Perched on a hill, the site had to be leveled, with one side of the hill requiring retaining walls and extensive backfilling to match the grade on the opposite face. In concert with the develop… - [Park Ridge, IL Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/park-ridge-il-residence-pj-vj~4907149) - Location: Park Ridge, IL - Photos: 23 - Description: https://www.vanzelst.com/ - [Highland Park Shade Garden and Patio](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/highland-park-shade-garden-and-patio-pj-vj~583606) - Location: Highland Park, IL - Photos: 29 - [Northbrook Illinois Shade Garden in June](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/northbrook-illinois-shade-garden-in-june-pj-vj~916750) - Location: Northbrook, IL - Photos: 21 - Description: When Van Zelst and this Northbrook family began working together several years ago, it was to simply complete a small shade garden planting project. Over time, however, the relationship has grown as the home’s owners began to imagine the possibilities for their landscape. The heavily wooded property presented a tremendous opportunity to illustrate how shady areas can come to life with an interesting mix of plant types. The trees were underplanted with spiky astilbe, broad-leafed hostas, and dram… - [Lake Geneva, WI Residence (A)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-geneva-wi-residence-a-pj-vj~167413) - Location: Lake Geneva, WI - Photos: 39 - Description: An established property in Lake Geneva, with great history and a beautiful site situated between the lake and natural woodland, was a tremendous opportunity for the Van Zelst team. With acres of lawn, hundreds of shrubs and thousands of perennials, it was all ready to be looked at with fresh eyes. The Van Zelst team of landscape architects, horticulturalists, engineers and stonemasons went to work, ultimately earning a 2009 Gold Award for Residential Construction and a 2010 Gold Award for Reside… - [Mettawa IL Pool and Spa Landscaping](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mettawa-il-pool-and-spa-landscaping-pj-vj~586818) - Location: Mettawa, IL - Photos: 8 - [Winnetka Patio, Spa, and Gardens . . . Perfect for Entertaining](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/winnetka-patio-spa-and-gardens-perfect-for-entertaining-pj-vj~1587663) - Location: Winnetka, IL - Photos: 17 - Description: After fully renovating their new home's interior, these Winnetka homeowners turned their sights outdoors. It had been some time since attention had been paid to the landscape—the concrete pool deck was cracked, pavers were broken, plantings were overgrown and rainwater had been running down toward the house for decades. During the home renovation, the foundation needed to be repaired and even rebuilt in places. So the first order of business for Van Zelst was to address drainage issues. Because… - [Sweeping Twin Lakes, Wisconsin Retaining Wall](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sweeping-twin-lakes-wisconsin-retaining-wall-pj-vj~1514172) - Location: Twin Lakes, WI - Photos: 9 - Description: With a home that overlooks scenic Lake Elizabeth in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, this Van Zelst client wanted to make the view from the water as breathtaking as the view looking out. The home, however, sits atop a high slope covered with plants that had not been tended in decades. Not only did they want to improve the aesthetics of the property, they knew that a retaining wall would help keep erosion in check. The homeowners and Van Zelst team considered a number of options, ultimately selecting a nat… - [Winnetka, IL Residence (B)](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/winnetka-il-residence-b-pj-vj~409846) - Location: Winnetka, IL - Photos: 81 - Description: This Winnetka home's formal garden, modeled on a French parterre design, incorporates a variety of classic features, including bluestone patios and walkways, low boxwood hedges outlining grass, plantings and hardscape, and the restrained use of classically inspired garden sculpture. As the owners recognized, the geometric lines of a formal garden require careful attention to detail to keep the landscape looking its best. For example, shaping the long runs of boxwood requires attention throughout… - [Kenilworth, IL Fire Pit, Pool, and Spa](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kenilworth-il-fire-pit-pool-and-spa-pj-vj~166845) - Location: Kenilworth, IL - Photos: 16 - Description: As this family’s kids grew older, their parents wanted to give them a space they could enjoy with their friends. The result is a patio and pool house addition that suit their family’s summer lifestyle perfectly. Unlike many Van Zelst engagements, this one de-emphasized plantings. The family wanted to keep the grass underfoot, so people could stroll easily from the house to the pool or fire pit. Tumbled pavers were installed throughout the patio, pool deck and walkways to connect areas defined fo… [See all 35 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/landscape-architects-and-landscape-designers/van-zelst-inc-pfvwus-pf~788892720) ## Frequently Asked Questions **What types of landscape design projects do you specialize in?** Yes, we specialize in a wide range of residential landscape design projects, from creating year-round landscapes with breathtaking color to elegant outdoor kitchens, living areas, and expertly installed stonework. We offer complete design, installation, and maintenance services, tailored to your lifestyle. **Do you offer design-only services or full project coordination?** Yes, we offer complete design, installation, and maintenance services. Our award-winning landscape architects can guide you through the entire process, from initial concept and design to expert installation and ongoing care, ensuring a seamless and beautiful transformation of your outdoor space. **Do you create detailed planting and layout plans?** Absolutely! We create detailed landscape plans, including comprehensive planting and layout designs. Our goal is to craft year-round landscapes with breathtaking color and structure, ensuring every plant and feature is thoughtfully placed to enhance your outdoor living experience. **Do you design outdoor living spaces such as patios and outdoor kitchens?** Yes, we excel at designing elegant outdoor living spaces. This includes custom patio designs, outdoor kitchens, and various hardscaping elements. We focus on creating functional and beautiful areas that extend your home's living space and are perfectly designed around your lifestyle. **Do you design drought-tolerant or sustainable landscapes?** Yes, we certainly do! We offer drought-tolerant landscaping solutions and can design organic gardens. Our approach focuses on creating beautiful, sustainable landscapes that are both environmentally conscious and perfectly suited to your specific needs and preferences. *FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.* ## Ideabooks - [Riverwoods / Whigam](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/102336839/list/riverwoods-whigam) — 8 ideas - [Barrington/Merri Oaks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61475945/list/barrington-merri-oaks) — 19 ideas - [Glenview / Ridgewood](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/84762667/list/glenview-ridgewood) — 21 ideas - [Glencoe / Dell Place](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/63973953/list/glencoe-dell-place) — 29 ideas [See all 4 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/vanzelst) ## Community Q&A **Q: what is the pink stone?** *(in Photo Questions)* What is the stone under the dining table? A: This is a full range New York bluestone. The color range is subtle rust-like browns through blueish grey. **Q: Lakefront Landscaping** *(in Landscape Design)* We would like to landscape our lakefront property. A: For inspiration and to get ideas for your lakefront home, you can see photos of lakefront properties on our website Photo Gallery. Our projects are in Chicago's North Shore and southeastern Wisconsin. A few are pictured below. Fieldstone steps lead to a hidden pathway. Native plants add an unfussy air to the patio. Shade loving perennials, annuals and ground cover with interesting shapes, sizes, textures and colors. View of Lake Delevan, WI from stone patio **Q: Need Help Enhancing Pool Area** *(in Landscape Design)* I am in New Jersey and for many years I have wanted to get rid of the grass on one side of the pool and install a more useable area. I have gone through deciding between putting either a pergola, backyard pub, firepit/fireplace, bbq area or seating area or a combination of them. I am reaching out to the Houzz community for some ideas. Some work would be done DIY and some I may bring in a professional. The area is about 60 x 16 and gets sun all day as the long side runs from east to west. The pool is about 50 feet from the house and the area would need to be leveled as the ground slopes down away from the pool, which has made it difficult to put chairs. Thank you in advance for any suggestions or observations. The above is the front of house to show our style The area in front of the trees is where I would like to enhance. This picture shows the area I want to enhance. It gets sun all day long. This picture is west facing. As you might be able to see the ground slopes down away from the pool making it difficult to put chairs and would need to be leveled. This picture is from the corner of the area facing Northwest. There is seating in the area. To the right is where we put lounge chairs during the season. A: It's our pleasure Tom, good luck with your project! **Q: How to stop water drainage from nieghbors property?** *(in Landscape Design)* During rainstorms here in NC an incredible amount of water flows into my property from the adjoining neighbors yard. With the soil being heavy clay there is not much to slow it down causing the water to erode the soil on my property, wash away any attempt at seeding for grass, flushes out all nutrients and drowns my trees. I have pondered digging an 8-12in deep by 6-8inch wide ditch down the fence line then laying down heavy plastic and lastly filling with gravel such as crush N run. Any other ideas out there? If this is the appropriate route, will landscape fabric be a better choice than plastic and why? I'm also concerned with longevity of this approach as the amount of water would be sure to erode the side of the ditch. Thank you in advance. A: Yard areas with runoff and drainage issues can be challenging. Considering opportunities to improve drainage and to enhance the aesthetics of your property adjacent to your neighbor, there are a number of options. These drainage concepts, such as swales, dry stream-beds, rain gardens, bioswales, and open french drains are all designed to accomplish 4 basic goals: To move water from one area of the landscape to another To detain water in a designated area where it may be absorbed into the ground over a larger area To reduce maintenance related problems in an area of extreme moisture To look aesthetically pleasing and natural Read our blog post for more helpful info about the essential elements of successful drainage: https://www.vanzelst.com/blog/water-problems-and-solutions/. **Q: Help us make friends!!!** *(in Landscape Design)* We moved 1,700 miles from our family/friends and bought a house in Boise last spring. We moved into an amazing, friendly, social neighborhood and want to add a front porch/small courtyard. I, unfortunately, cannot come up with any good ideas to incorporate our 70s ranch with modern curb appeal (that also won’t date horrendously). I am open to all ideas! Ps: our roof needs to be replaced so any face-lift ideas are more than welcomed!!! I would love to hear and ideas to increase curb appeal and make it both inviting and functional. A: You've got the right idea by creating a welcoming social hub out front. Consider creating a multi-purpose patio with low plantings. Some examples are shown below. A sunny spot to visit with friends, old and new! Variegated pavers make a seemingly random pattern feel easy and inviting. This exploded flagstone patio with creeping thyme planted between the joints also has an informal appeal. A small welcoming bluestone patio says "stay a while." See more patio ideas on our websitePhoto Gallery. **Q: Rain Garden(s) on Shady Lane** *(in Landscape Design)* Hello! My partner and I moved to Ann Arbor in October 2020. We've put in three native beds and I'm now turning my gaze to potentially building a rain garden (or two). I've taken a few photos of potential spots where a rain garden could go. We will likely be building a patio next year, and to do so, they might need to take the spout and dig a spot underground for it to run off. This might be a great opportunity to tell the building to run the spout to a rain garden! I've included a few photos of spots in our front and/or backyard that might have potential to be a rain garden bed. This is the South part of our back lawn (this part is West facing). Here you can see there's a gutter (this is the garage roof run-off). It could be directed west facing (it's now NNW facing) down to a bed. As you can see there's a lot of virginia creeper and buckthorn on the other side of the fence (an unkept vacant house lot is on the other side, a lot of fighting back on our side of the fence). As our house is East/West facing and 1,000 sq ft we get a fair amount of sun. In this area, it's a mix of shade and sun. Especially as a few trees just outside out lot provide good cover. The bed is nearly 40' from the downspout but as I said, with the patio being put in, we might have the downspout put underground and would run off to the bed. Another possibility is on the North side of the back lawn. As you can see there is a lovely old maple providing cover. In the right part of this image is a native bed. The downspout is circled. This part of the yard actually slopes downward. See below. This bed is a complete mix of stuff! Some native plants, some wildflowers, a peony, you name it! Again, some of the virginia creeper, well, creeps, under the fence and we have to rip it out. As you can see, there are two raised beds. One is empty at the moment (save for a canna lilly) and then there is a covered little vegetable garden. From an engineering standpoint (I'm not an engineer) because it slopes down this way, a rain garden would sort of be perfect here I think. But, we also have the beds. So I'm a bit unsure if this is where I would want it to go. The bed is somewhere between 30-40' from the downspout. Alternatively, I thought this particular downspout would be great for a rain barrel if I don't put a rain garden here. This is the front of our house. The arrows indicate (and maybe you can see it) our lawn slopes down from the road. Our street is VERY quiet. Hardly any traffic. A2 has been getting a lot of rain this summer. Just to the left of the arrows, on the driveway you'll see a sewer plate. Below, you'll see another grate that's in the lawn, just off the driveway that leads to the sewer. So, my thinking here is that potentially, two rain garden beds could be off the driveway/street. I'd move the hydrangeas. Up the driveway, there's a redbud. Unfortunately, the front yard of our house has a strange triangular lot so I'd have to get creative with the shape. The potential bed in the upper left space is about 15 feet from the spout (it's the beige L shape, you might see it, just passed the redbud). I look forward to thoughts on these potential beds as rain gardens! A: This discussion made us think of offering a link to our blog about rain gardens: https://www.vanzelst.com/blog/rain-gardens/. It includes a list of plant suggestions for the Midwest and some inspirational photos - Enjoy! Another really helpful blog post about drainage problems and how to resolve them: https://www.vanzelst.com/blog/water-problems-and-solutions/. Drainage issues resolved beautifully! See more photos on our website Photo Gallery. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-17.*