Challenge
The backyard of this Western North Carolina home presented a steep, extreme slope that made it practically unusable. The homeowners’ dream was to transform this challenging space into a functional and inviting outdoor area that complemented their mountain living lifestyle.
Goals
The homeowners wanted to achieve several key objectives:
- Create a Safe and Functional Outdoor Space: A safe environment for family and friends was essential.
- Optimize Mountain Views: Maximizing their stunning mountain vistas was a top priority.
- Design a Space for Entertaining: They envisioned an area perfect for hosting gatherings and outdoor relaxation.
- Enhance Property Value: The project also aimed to add significant value to the home by creating a visually appealing and practical addition.
Design and Materials


To match the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, the design incorporated a natural rock and boulder motif that blended seamlessly with the pastoral setting of the home. Addressing the steep slope was a crucial part of the project, requiring expert planning to create a usable and stable space.
The design process was guided by Brian Johnson, our in-house designer, through virtual meetings. These virtual sessions were highly effective in discussing materials and fine-tuning details, ensuring the homeowners’ vision was fully realized despite the unique challenges of the mountainous terrain.
Project Execution
Project Manager: Joe Oviedo
Joe Oviedo led the project with exceptional coordination and attention to detail. His consistent communication ensured the homeowners were informed and involved throughout the construction process. One notable example of this was Joe’s attention to the selection of materials—he invited the homeowners to approve the large boulders for the safety/seat wall before they were installed.
Foreman: Jeremy Conard
Jeremy Conard played a key role in overseeing the day-to-day construction activities. His hands-on management ensured that the project ran smoothly and adhered to the planned timeline. Jeremy’s dedication and expertise were instrumental in bringing the design to life while addressing the challenges posed by the steep terrain.
Construction Team
The homeowners were particularly impressed by the dedication of the construction crew, specifically Felipe and Demetrio. They remained focused on the project from start to finish, demonstrating pride in their work and contributing significantly to the project’s success. The homeowners noted the crew’s professionalism and positive attitude throughout the process.
Outcome
The completed project has transformed the backyard into a beautiful and functional outdoor living space. The homeowners now enjoy a daily retreat where they can unwind while taking in the breathtaking mountain views. The space has also become a central hub for entertaining friends and family.
The project was completed within the original budget, even with the additional elements required to address the retaining wall’s height. This accomplishment speaks to the careful planning and management by the entire team.
Homeowner Testimonial
“We couldn’t be happier with the outcome of this project. We now have a safe and functional outdoor space that we use every day, weather permitting. The views are stunning, and it’s the perfect spot to relax and reflect. Joe and his crew were incredible to work with, and their pride in their work is evident in every detail. Special thanks to Brian Johnson for designing a space that exceeded our expectations and to Jeremy Conard for ensuring every detail was executed perfectly. This project has truly enhanced our home and lifestyle.”
This backyard transformation is a shining example of how thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship can overcome challenging terrain and create a space that blends beauty, functionality, and value.
Interested in transforming your own mountain property? Contact B.H. Graning Landscapes, Inc. to bring your dream outdoor space to life.