Family-Friendly Backyard Oasis in East Grand Rapids, MI

This family in East Grand Rapids came to us with an underutilized backyard and a vision: to create a welcoming outdoor space that everyone could enjoy.

We began by clearing the entire area to make way for a thoughtful, functional redesign. To guide movement through the landscape, we installed large-format flagstone steppers that meander toward the back of the property, where a spacious oval-shaped brick patio now serves as the central gathering space.

Because the yard sits beneath a canopy of mature shade trees, we carefully selected a mix of shade-tolerant plantings to soften the space and add seasonal color. From textured foliage to pops of blooms, the planting palette brings vibrancy and life to an otherwise shaded environment.

This East Grand Rapids backyard renovation transformed a forgotten lawn into a relaxing outdoor oasis—ideal for quiet mornings, family dinners, or weekend entertaining.