From Steep Lawn to Woodland Haven: Ray and Heather’s Backyard Makeover

LOCATION: Brentwood Bay BC  |  TYPE: Landscaping | COMPLETED: 2014 | CLIENT: Private Residence | Budget: $15,000

A lush backyard garden with a rectangular patch of fresh sod, stone steps climbing a steep lawn, green ground cover plants, potted flowers, and surrounding trees and shrubs creates a serene backyard makeover.

Introduction

Ray and Heather had a steep, slippery lawn that was nearly impossible to mow—especially during the rainy season. After two previous projects with us, they knew who to call for help transforming their tricky slope into a natural woodland extension of the nearby green space.

A grassy backyard with patches of bare soil, bordered by a wooden fence and surrounded by tall trees and dense greenery. Perfect for a backyard makeover, it features a small pile of dirt and a slight hill near the fence.

What They Wanted

Their main goal was a safe, sturdy path from the deck to the lower yard without slipping or tracking mud. They also hoped the design would flow seamlessly into the adjacent forest, creating a calm, nature-inspired setting.

A sunlit grassy yard with scattered fallen leaves and a small white shed on the left offers backyard makeover potential, while a stone wall on the right and tall green trees create a peaceful, partially shaded woodland haven.

Challenges:

The lawn’s steepness made yard work downright hazardous, and basic fixes weren’t going to cut it. Mowing was a hassle, especially when wet, and the slope didn’t feel like a place they could truly enjoy.

Landscape design concept diagram labeled Landscape Stairs, ideal for a steep lawn or backyard makeover, featuring a pathway, lawn, and varied plantings. Includes labeled areas, plant names, and inset images of stairs, paths, and greenery on the left side.

What They Tried:

They hadn’t altered the lawn before, other than tossing around the idea of a simple set of steps. That plan would’ve been functional but didn’t capture the woodland feel they envisioned.

A landscaped garden slope transforms a steep lawn into a woodland haven, with large rocks, green ground cover plants, ferns, and stepping stones winding upward amid trees and lush grass.

The Solution:

We shifted gears from a basic timber-and-paver design to a more natural approach:

  • Stone Steps & Boulders: Sturdy, slip-resistant steps that fit the aesthetic of the surrounding forest.
  • Woodland Plantings: We used native plants to blend the yard with the adjacent green space.
  • Opening the View: Removing an old fence and shed made the yard feel larger and more inviting.
A landscaped garden transforms into a woodland haven with green grass, yellow ground cover, ferns, large rocks, and stone steps climbing a small, steep lawn, all surrounded by trees and lush vegetation.

The Results:

  • After wrapping up, Heather exclaimed, “It’s like something out of a magazine! I can’t believe this is my yard!” She was so thrilled that she reached out to local publications, hoping to share their newly minted woodland retreat. Now, Ray and Heather can step off their deck—socks and all—into a backyard that feels like an extension of nature itself.

Ready to Create Your Own Private Retreat?

If you’re facing a challenging view or want to turn your backyard into a peaceful escape, we can help. Whether it’s designing a custom timber arbor or transforming your outdoor space, our expertise in creating beautiful, functional landscapes will make your vision a reality.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start transforming your outdoor space into the private retreat you deserve.

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