This lakefront project near Irish Hills, Michigan was one of the more challenging sites we’ve worked on. The property had a steep drop toward the water, so the entire space had to be carefully planned and built in layers. We constructed multiple tall retaining walls, custom stone steps, and paver patios to safely manage the grade while turning a difficult slope into usable outdoor living space.

 

Because access to the site was extremely limited, everything required detailed layout, staging, and long-term planning. While most of the hardscape was built using Unilock products, we intentionally blended in natural flagstone and some boulders in key areas so the project felt like it belonged in the landscape. Plant selection played a huge role as well, softening the walls and tying the hardscape into the surrounding woods and lakefront setting.

 

The project was completed in phases over three years to make sure each section flowed into the next the right way. The finished space includes multiple patios, seating areas, and lake views, all designed to feel natural while still being highly functional. This is a strong example of high-end lakefront hardscape and landscape construction near Irish Hills, Michigan, built with a lot of planning and attention to detail.