Landscape Architect and Design in Monmouth County: Customer Case Study

As a young couple in their 30s preparing to start a family, their priorities were clear. They wanted an outdoor environment that maximized entertaining and relaxation while still preserving usable lawn space for future kids and dogs. What they needed was not just a contractor, but a landscape architect and design partner in Monmouth County NJ who could translate those goals into a cohesive plan.

The Challenge: An Outdated Backyard With No Flow

The property began as a blank slate with plenty of potential but no defined structure. The challenge was finding the right balance between outdoor living features and open green space without overwhelming the yard.

The key objectives were:

• Maximize outdoor living and entertaining space

• Maintain functional lawn space for long term family use

• Create a seamless transition from the home to the backyard

• Design a space that felt natural rather than overly manufactured

Landscape Architecture Approach and Layout Strategy

The design focused on keeping the primary outdoor living areas close to the home. By aligning the deck, patio, and pool into one cohesive zone, the backyard feels like a true extension of the interior living space. At the same time, the rear portion of the property was intentionally left open. This preserved flexible lawn space and ensured the yard could evolve with the homeowners over time.

Project Budget and Key Must Haves

The project was designed around a $300,000 investment, which is consistent with high end residential landscape projects in Monmouth County NJ.

The homeowners identified a clear set of must haves early in the process:

• A custom swimming pool

• A cohesive transition from the house to the pool area

• A fire pit for gathering and entertaining

• Open lawn space for everyday use

3D Landscape Design Process and Timeline

The project began with a full 3D landscape design. This allowed the homeowners to see exactly how the finished space would look and function before construction began. Minor adjustments were made to the pool location and patio layout during the design phase. This early collaboration reduced uncertainty and helped streamline construction. From initial consultation through permitting and final build, the entire project was completed in approximately three months, an efficient timeline for a project of this scale.

Planting Design for Privacy and Year Round Interest

Around the pool area, the goal was to create a sense of privacy and enclosure. The design uses boxwood hedges and layered plantings to define the space and give it a secluded, serene feel.

A water feature anchors the back of the pool, while flowering perennials like Limelight hydrangeas add seasonal color and softness. The planting plan blends evergreens with flowering plants to ensure four seasons of visual interest and structure.

Low maintenance and long term performance were key considerations throughout the landscape design.

Blending Natural Stone With Hardscape Materials

A defining element of this project is the use of natural materials. A large boulder retaining wall surrounds the fire pit area, creating a grounded and organic focal point.

Rather than relying solely on manufactured pavers, the design intentionally mixes natural stone with premium hardscape materials. This creates a backyard that feels timeless and natural instead of rigid or overly uniform.

Guiding Clients From Vision to Reality

Like many homeowners, the clients knew they wanted a dream backyard but were unsure how to bring it together. The design process began by studying the interior of the home to ensure the outdoor spaces felt like a natural continuation of the indoor environment. Detailed conversations focused on what the homeowners liked and just as importantly what they disliked. Colors, textures, and styles to avoid were all part of the intake process. Once an initial concept was presented, client feedback guided refinements until the design fully aligned with their vision.

The Result: A Backyard Designed for Life

The finished project delivers a backyard that is both beautiful and practical. It supports entertaining, relaxation, and everyday family life while leaving room for the property to grow with the homeowners.

This case study highlights the value of working with an experienced landscape architect and design team in Monmouth County NJ that understands how to balance aesthetics, function, and long term planning.

Earthscapes NJ specializes in custom landscape architecture and design throughout Monmouth County and Ocean County, creating outdoor spaces that are designed for how you live today and how you will live tomorrow.

Start Your Backyard Design in Ocean and Monmouth County, NJ

If your backyard feels disconnected or outdated, the solution is not guessing. It is seeing the possibilities first, then building with confidence. Earthscapes NJ specializes in landscape design and backyard renovations in Ocean County and Monmouth County, NJ. See your outdoor space in 3D before construction begins and move forward with a plan that is clear, cohesive, and built around how you live.

Ready to start? Contact Earthscapes NJ to schedule your consultation and begin your 3D backyard design process.