Creating an inviting, private outdoor retreat in a suburban setting can be challenging, especially when neighboring yards are in close proximity. For this project in Woodbury, MN, our team at LNG-Hartigan was tasked with transforming a typical backyard into a functional, elegant, and private extension of the home. With just one week to complete the project, our team focused on designing a space that balances privacy, flow, and usability while enhancing the home’s exterior.
The client’s goal was clear: they wanted a backyard that felt like an outdoor room, suitable for cooking, entertaining, and relaxing, without sacrificing style. Our solution combined thoughtful design, hardscape craftsmanship, strategic softscaping, and smart lighting to create a space that could be enjoyed day or night.
Seamless Design for Privacy and Flow
The first step was creating a custom layout that addressed the unique challenges of a development where backyards face each other. LNG-Hartigan focused on making the outdoor area feel private while maintaining a smooth transition from the interior of the home to the deck and patio. The raised deck was anchored by County Materials Tribute block seat walls, and pergola-style posts were installed to frame a modern privacy screen that complements the home’s architectural style.
From the deck, the design flows naturally into a paver patio, where a built-in grill area was nestled between a second set of Tribute seat walls. This arrangement created distinct zones for cooking, dining, and lounging, allowing the backyard to function as a multi-use outdoor living space while maintaining elegance and cohesion.
Hardscape Craftsmanship and Functional Beauty
Every element of the hardscape was carefully planned and executed. The raised deck and seat walls provide a sense of enclosure and intimacy, while the pergola posts subtly frame the privacy screen without making the space feel closed off. The paver patio extends the living area, creating a smooth flow for entertaining and everyday use. Low-voltage lighting was incorporated into the wall caps and along pathways, softly illuminating the space at night and enhancing safety and ambiance.
Softscape and Landscaping
Complementing the hardscape, the landscaping focused on structure, texture, and low maintenance. Mulch beds were installed around the living spaces to create clean, polished edges, while boxwoods and Karl Foerster grasses added year-round visual interest. A fresh sod installation completed the lawn, unifying the design and providing a lush, usable surface for outdoor activities.
The team also addressed irrigation, repairing and retrofitting the existing system to navigate around the new decks, walls, and planting areas. This ensures the landscape thrives with minimal maintenance and the lush plantings remain healthy throughout the seasons.
Lighting and Atmosphere
Lighting was thoughtfully integrated to make the backyard enjoyable after dark. Wall cap lights highlight the seat walls, while strategically placed path lights define circulation areas and add subtle ambiance. The overall effect is a backyard that feels welcoming, safe, and visually appealing at any hour, enhancing both the functionality and the mood of the space.
Client Experience
The homeowners were thrilled with the outcome.
“Our backyard had so much potential, but with homes so close together, we needed something that felt private and well-planned. LNG absolutely nailed it. The design flows perfectly from inside the house to the deck and patio, and the privacy elements they added make all the difference.
The seat walls, lighting, and layout make it feel like a luxury outdoor room. Every piece—from the grill area to the plantings—was carefully thought out, and the result is both beautiful and functional.
They were professional, responsive, and easy to work with from day one. We couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out.”
Services Provided on “The Private Escape”
LNG-Hartigan delivered a comprehensive package of services, starting with design and planning, which focused on creating a custom layout that integrated privacy and defined zones for dining, cooking, and relaxing. Hardscape construction included the raised deck with Tribute block seat walls, pergola-style posts framing the privacy screen, a paver patio, and a built-in grill area. Low-voltage lighting and path lights enhanced both usability and ambiance.
The softscape portion of the project involved installing mulch beds, sod, and plantings such as boxwoods and Karl Foerster grasses for visual interest and low-maintenance appeal. The irrigation system was repaired and retrofitted to accommodate new features, ensuring the landscape stays healthy and vibrant. Grading adjustments and careful material coordination ensured seamless transitions between the deck, patio, and lawn, resulting in a polished, functional outdoor space.
A Backyard Designed for Modern Suburban Life
The Private Escape exemplifies how thoughtful design and skilled execution can transform a backyard into a private, functional, and beautiful retreat. LNG-Hartigan successfully balanced privacy, flow, and aesthetic appeal, creating a space the family can enjoy for years to come. For homeowners looking to elevate their outdoor living spaces, LNG-Hartigan provides the expertise, craftsmanship, and creative vision to turn any backyard into a personal escape. Contact our team today to see what we can do for your lawn!