A Port Washington Transformation

When a historic cottage in Port Washington underwent a massive architectural remodel, the surrounding landscape needed to rise to the same level of sophistication. The existing grounds were overgrown, outdated, and failed to capitalize on the property’s most stunning asset: its view of Lake Michigan.

McGuire Landscape Company was brought in to provide a "clean slate" approach to the site. Our team focused on blending rugged, natural materials with modern geometry to create a seamless transition from the driveway to the front door, and ultimately, to the water’s edge.

Precision Masonry with Lannon Stone Outcroppings

One of the defining features of this Port Washington project is the extensive use of Lannon stone outcropping walls. These walls provide essential structural support for the property's elevation changes while adding a timeless, Wisconsin-quarried aesthetic.

For this specific design, we opted for a more refined profile. While many of our projects utilize heavy 12-inch thick slabs, we selected stones in the 6-to-7-inch range for a sleeker, more layered look that complemented the home's new architecture.

Engineering the Perfect Flow

Managing the transition from the driveway to the front entry required meticulous planning. Our team spent significant time shooting heights and measuring grades to ensure the concrete walkways and steps integrated perfectly with the stone walls.

Seamless Grade Transitions: Navigating the incline from the driveway to the front door.
Custom Concrete Work: High-durability steps and paths designed for year-round Lake Michigan weather.
Visual Continuity: Ensuring the stone outcroppings felt like a natural part of the hillside.

Smart Lighting Control and Nighttime Ambiance

A high-end landscape should be just as functional at midnight as it is at noon. We installed a comprehensive Alliance outdoor lighting system throughout the property to highlight the new stonework and ensure safe passage along the walkways.

These aren't standard lights; they are fully integrated, color-changing LED fixtures. Homeowners can use a smartphone app to dim the lights, create custom color themes for holidays, or set schedules for the path lights and uplights.

"The ability to change the mood of the entire property through a mobile app adds a layer of modern luxury that perfectly matches the home's renovation."

Lakeside Gatherings: The Natural Fire Pit

The backyard of this property faces the vast horizon of Lake Michigan. To create a dedicated space for relaxation, we designed a natural fire pit area that honors the history of the original cottage.

We reclaimed Lannon flagstone pieces from the original site and repurposed them to build a rustic, durable patio space. This "upcycled" approach provides a beautiful, sustainable hangout spot where the family can enjoy the lake breeze and the warmth of a fire.

Innovative Design Details

On the side of the home, we pushed the boundaries of traditional landscape design with a sunken hot tub area. This allows the homeowners to step directly down into the water, preserving their view of the lake while maintaining a low-profile aesthetic.

Adjacent to this area, we utilized concrete slabs with decorative stone inlays. This creates a modern, checkerboard-style pattern that bridges the gap between the organic look of the stone walls and the clean lines of the home.

Solving Complex Drainage and Grading Issues

Beautiful landscapes must also be functional, especially on lakefront properties where water management is critical. This project involved significant drainage engineering to protect the home’s foundation and the new asphalt driveway.

Catch Basins: We installed a large-scale catch basin in front of the garage to manage heavy runoff.
Buried Downspouts: All gutter systems were tied into underground lines to move water away from high-traffic areas.
Soil Preparation: Large lawn areas were regraded with fresh topsoil and high-quality seed to ensure a lush, green carpet.

Native Plantings and Finishing Touches

To soften the hardscapes, we integrated a variety of native plants and fresh mulch beds. These plantings were selected for their ability to thrive in the unique microclimate of Port Washington, where lake winds and moisture play a major factor in plant health.

From the stone outcroppings to the smart lighting and intricate drainage, this project represents the comprehensive approach McGuire Landscape Company brings to every lakefront home. We don't just build patios; we create cohesive outdoor environments.

Start Your Transformation with McGuire

Is your Washington, Waukesha, or Ozaukee County property ready for a complete transformation? Whether you are looking for expert stonework, modern lighting, or complex waterfront solutions, McGuire Landscape Company has the expertise to bring your vision to life.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how we can elevate your outdoor living space.