Secluded Hidden Garden | Birmingham, MI.

Designed to merge structure with design, this residential water feature serves the dual purpose —both as a functional retaining wall and as a sculptural fountain seamlessly integrated into the landscape. Anchoring the pathway edge, the structure combines utility and beauty, transforming a grade transition into a celebrated design element. The primary wall construction utilizes Techo-Bloc, ensuring strength and stability as the retaining component. To soften the architectural presence and tie the feature into its surroundings’, tumbled bluestone was detailed across the fountain face. This choice of stone creates visual continuity with the adjacent bluestone paving used along the pathway and patio, unifying the materials across the garden. Water flows gently from three spouts into a small reflecting pool, offering both sound and movement that enhances the sensory experience of the garden walk. Balancing utility with beauty, this water feature elevates a functional retaining wall into a serene and engaging design element. It exemplifies how material harmony, clean detailing, and intentional placement can transform practical needs into enduring landscape features.
Residential Highlights Include:
  • Custom three-spout architectural water wall with reflecting basin
  • Dual-purpose retaining wall integrated as sculptural fountain feature
  • Formal garden pathways with stepping stone side courtyard access
  • Expansive tumbled bluestone patio and walkway system
  • Layered privacy screening with arborvitae hedging

Completed: 2024
Location: Birmingham, MI
Project Type: Backyard Landscape Improvement