Layered Landscape Design & Garden Patio Retreat
This Lake Forest property already had strong natural character, mature trees, and generous outdoor space, but the layout and landscape design were not fully supporting how the homeowners wanted to enjoy the property day to day.
The homeowners wanted a landscape that felt more inviting, intentional, and connected to the home while creating comfortable areas for relaxing and entertaining outdoors. They were looking for a space that felt polished and professionally designed without losing the warmth and softness of a mature garden setting.
Bertog Landscape designed and refined the outdoor environment around layered planting beds, functional gathering spaces, and a brick paver patio that blended naturally into the surrounding landscape.
The updated design introduced structured planting layouts, colorful perennial gardens, clean transitions, and a patio space designed for conversation and everyday outdoor use. Rich plant textures, flowering shrubs, and carefully placed greenery help soften the hardscape while creating depth and visual interest throughout the property.
Special attention was given to maintaining the natural feel of the landscape while improving flow, usability, and long-term maintenance. The patio and surrounding gardens feel connected to the architecture of the home instead of separate from it.
The finished result feels welcoming, established, and thoughtfully organized around the way the homeowners actually live outside. The property now offers multiple areas to relax, entertain guests, and enjoy the landscape throughout the season.
Like every Bertog Landscape project, the transformation started with careful planning and a clearly defined vision.
The team evaluated the existing landscape layout, mature tree coverage, outdoor gathering opportunities, planting conditions, and transitions between the home and garden areas.
Special attention was given to preserving the natural character of the property while improving circulation, visibility, and overall outdoor usability.
Once the design direction and scope were finalized, Bertog Landscape’s team handled every phase of installation, including:
Because the project was managed by one experienced team from start to finish, the homeowners had clear communication, organized timelines, and confidence throughout the entire process.
The finished property reads as an intentional, layered landscape — a brick paver patio sized for real gathering, perennial beds that carry seasonal interest, and clean transitions between the home, garden, and outdoor living areas. One team, one vision, delivered end-to-end.
