Landscape Transformation: Expanding Outdoor Living with a Boulder Wall, Colorful Plantings & Porch Makeover

Transforming an Overgrown Hillside into an Inviting Landscape

Every property comes with its challenges—and this Upper St. Clair home had two: an overgrown slope and an aging front entry. Our design-build team took a two-phase approach to create a more functional, colorful, and low-maintenance outdoor space that enhances the home’s curb appeal year-round.

Phase 1 – Creating Lawn Space & Solving the Hillside Challenge

This project began with a goal to reclaim usable lawn space and simplify maintenance. The hillside behind the home was overgrown with junipers, sumac, and sassafras trees, making it difficult to maintain and enjoy.

To stabilize the slope and expand the flat area, our landscape crew installed a natural boulder retaining wall, brought in new topsoil, and refreshed the entire planting design. The new layout provides:

• Improved privacy from the neighboring property
• Color and texture throughout the seasons
• Easier access with a new set of stone steps down the hill

By planning this project during the winter months, we were able to secure materials early and begin installation as soon as spring arrived—a great tip for homeowners who want to be first on the spring schedule.

Phase 2 – A Front Porch & Walkway Makeover

Once the backyard was complete, the homeowners turned their attention to the front. Working with Maddison, one of our talented landscape designers, we expanded and redesigned the front porch using Techo-Bloc Villagio pavers.

The combination of chocolate brown pavers with a charcoal border adds contrast and timeless appeal. The expanded seating area now offers space to relax and enjoy the view, accented by decorative planters and layered plantings.

Thoughtful Plant Choices for Year-Round Interest

To keep the front yard colorful in every season, the design features:

• Ilex crenata compacta evergreens—ideal for holiday lights and winter structure
• Solidago flexicaulis (Zigzag Goldenrod)—a late-season bloomer for pollinators
• Tiarella (Foam Flower) and ferns—lush groundcovers that thrive in part shade
• Japanese Anemone and Golden Ragwort—providing soft pink and yellow blooms across spring and fall

Each plant was chosen to fit the site’s light conditions and soil, while creating year-round visual interest.

Watch the Full Transformation

Watch the video: 2-Year Landscape Transformation | Expanding Lawn, Boulder Walls & A Modern Front Porch Makeover

In the video, Russ and Maddison walk through both phases of the project and share insights on how thoughtful design and expert installation turn challenges into beautiful, lasting results.

Plan Your Own Landscape Update

If you’re ready to improve your home’s outdoor living spaces—whether it’s reclaiming a hillside, upgrading an entryway, or adding outdoor entertaining areas—Bedner’s Landscape & Design can help.

Contact us today to schedule a design consultation and get on our schedule for next season.