Every property has its own opportunities, and one of my favorite parts of the design process is finding ways to work with the landscape instead of against it.

For this lakeside property, the natural slope toward the water became one of the design's greatest assets. Rather than installing a retaining wall, we custom fabricated corten steel raised beds with angled bottoms that follow the existing grade. The result is a garden that feels as though it has always belonged there—beautiful, functional, and perfectly integrated into the landscape.

Just steps from the back door, this edible oasis was designed to make harvesting part of everyday life. Fresh herbs for dinner, strawberries for summer mornings, vegetables for family meals, and blueberries picked straight from the landscape all encourage a deeper connection between the garden and the kitchen.

The project is made up of three distinct growing spaces that work together seamlessly. A custom L-shaped patio garden keeps herbs and colorful flowers within arm's reach of the kitchen, while the larger kitchen garden is dedicated to vegetables and strawberries. Beyond the raised beds, the property's existing lilacs were replaced with blueberries, extending the edible landscape and creating another season of harvest.

To complement the home's bluestone patio and stunning lake views, we selected corten steel raised beds that will continue to develop a rich natural patina over time. Custom arches and obelisk trellises add vertical interest while supporting climbing crops, creating a space that is equally beautiful in every season.

Inspired by the homeowner's love of bright, Italian-inspired gardens, the patio planting features cheerful yellows, oranges, and pinks that soften the steel and bring warmth and personality to the entire landscape.