Patio Sizing & Investment

Visualizing square footage on a lawn is hard. A space that looks huge when empty often feels cramped once a dining set and grill arrive. These benchmarks help you find the right fit. Prices below reflect manufactured stone; natural stone typically runs 20-25% higher.

Sizing for a 4-Person Table

A patio for a 4-person table starts around 10′ x 10′ (100 square feet). This fits a standard 48-inch table and gives chairs enough room to slide back. It is a great spot for morning coffee away from the main house. A 10′ x 10′ patio installed is around $10,000.

Planning for a 6-Person Dining Set

To fit a 6-foot table, you need at least 12′ x 12′ (144 square feet). If you want people to walk behind seated guests easily, move toward a 15′ x 15′ (225 square feet) area. This extra room stops that “trapped” feeling when someone gets up for a refill. A typical 12′ x 12′ patio cost is around $14,000.

Hosting an 8-Person Group

A patio for an 8-person table needs a 16′ x 20′ (320 square feet) base. This size keeps the traffic lanes open for serving food even when every chair is full. It makes your patio feel like a natural part of your indoor dining room. For a large-scale project like this, the cost is approximately $30,000.

Plan Your Layout

Many people place a patio directly against the house. This can create “dead zones” where the first few feet of stone go unused. Consider pulling the main seating area away from the wall by a few feet to keep the space useful.

Your Patio Size Checklist

Walk your property and check these factors before you start:

• Furniture Space: Measure your current set. Add 3 feet of buffer around the table so chairs can move.
• Primary Use: Decide if this is for dining or just a path to the rest of the garden.
• Sun & Shade: Do you want afternoon sun or the relief of northern shade?
• Drainage: Northern Michigan sandy soil drains well, but we must protect against standing water near your foundation.

Creating Outdoor Rooms

Large patios can feel like a parking lot without a plan. To maximize your patio cost in Traverse City, think of the project as a series of outdoor “rooms.”

• Cooking Zone: Put the grill near the house for quick trips to the kitchen.
• Gathering Hub: Make the dining area the center of the space.
• Private Retreat: Tuck a small seating area into a corner with tall grasses.

Related Reading: Caring for Your Lawn in Traverse City, MI this Spring

Fire Pit Footprints

You need a heat source to stay comfortable during crisp October nights. A good rule is to allow six feet of space on all sides of the pit for chairs and walking.

• Round Fire Pits (4-6 People): For a 3-foot pit, a space of at least 15′ x 15′ is best. This shape lets Adirondack chairs wrap around the heat.
• Square Pits (6+ People): A 6-foot rectangular fire table needs at least 18′ x 18′ of stone.
• Wood vs. Gas: Wood fires offer the scent of cedar but need room for wood storage. Gas fire pits are ready instantly, have no smoke, and fit in smaller spaces.

Related Reading: Unilock provides an excellent guide on firepit dimensions with a more detailed view on technical specs and how different stone shapes impact your layout.

Planning for Your Patio Borders

Stone is the foundation, but plants create the privacy. Surround your stone with a garden bed so it doesn’t look like a lonely island in your lawn. Here are a few hardy plant suggestions that can handle our Grand Traverse region winters and still look polished in July.

Layering for Privacy

• The Backdrop (Tall Layers): Taller plants act as the living walls to block the wind or hide the neighbor’s backyard. Karl Foerster is a favorite because it stays upright even after a heavy snow. For a deeper root system that thrives in our sandy soil, try Northwind Switchgrass. If you want a more wild, meadow look that changes color in the fall, Big Bluestem is a classic choice.
• The Mid-Layer (Medium Heights): These provide color at eye level while you are sitting down. Purple Coneflower is as tough a snow-packed shovel and great for local bees. Walker’s Low Catmint gives you a soft purple border that blooms for most of the summer. For a shorter grass that turns a striking bronze after the first frost, we recommend Little Bluestem.
• The Edge (Low Accents): Low-growing plants hide the sharp edge of the pavers and soften the transition to the grass. Creeping Thyme smells great when stepped on and fills gaps between stones. Autumn Joy Sedum is a thick, hardy plant that holds water well during July heatwaves. You can also use Prairie Dropseed, a fine grass that grows in a neat, round clump about the size of a basketball.

One Team for Your Entire Property

A beautiful patio stays that way when the landscape around it is healthy. Our short Northern Michigan summers are for hosting family, not for weeding. TruNorth Landscaping maintenance packages handle the heavy lifting like spring clean ups, pruning, and bi-weekly edging to keep your beds looking sharp.

For the health of your turf, our sister company, Green Team, handles the fertilization and pest control. We provide the expert direction to turn your backyard into a finished retreat without you having to juggle a dozen different contractors. One call to our team takes care of the design, the build, and the long-term care so you can get back your weekends.

Start your project with a team that lives where you do.

Assessing the Winter Aftermath

Before any tools touch the soil, perform a comprehensive property audit. Northern Michigan winters often leave behind more than just fallen branches. Look for heaving in hardscapes, where the freeze-thaw cycle may have shifted pavers or stone walkways. Early detection allows you to reset these elements before they become safety hazards or permanent structural issues. If you notice significant movement in retaining walls or stone stairs, our construction teams can provide a professional assessment to restore their integrity.

Related Reading: TruNorth Landscaping Maintenance Services

Priority Audit Areas:

• Structural Integrity: Inspect retaining walls and stone stairs for shifting caused by frost.
• Drainage Pathways: Check that snowmelt moves away from the foundation and into designated swales or rain gardens.
• Winter Burn: Identify evergreens with brown needles. This is a sign of moisture loss during frozen months.
• Animal Impact: Look for vole runs. These are small, surface-level tunnels in the turf that indicate where rodents nestled under the snow.

Professional Standard for a Spring Yard Cleanup

The first physical step in any spring yard cleanup is the removal of organic debris. While a few leaves in a garden bed provide nutrients, a matted layer of wet foliage on your turf is a recipe for disaster. This layer traps moisture and creates an environment where oxygen cannot reach the soil. You can use high-volume blowers or hand rakes to clear these areas. Focus on the crown of the grass plants to provide the oxygen and sunlight required to break dormancy. For garden beds, clear away spent annuals and cut back perennials. If the volume of debris feels overwhelming, our maintenance team can step in with specialized equipment to clear your property in a fraction of the time.

Related Reading: Caring for Your Lawn in Traverse City, MI this Spring

Landscape Lighting & Water Management

Spring is the time to recalibrate the systems that keep your sanctuary functional after dark. Northern Michigan winters are notoriously hard on outdoor lighting. Frost can heave fixtures out of alignment, and heavy snow piles often bump path lights. You can inspect every fixture for cracks or breaks and readjust for proper aim if needed, and check for any moisture intrusion in the wiring.

Check that your gutter downspouts and underground drainage lines are clear of winter debris. If water pools near your home, consider implementing rain gardens or dry creek beds. These features can be beautiful and protect your home’s foundation. Our designers can help you plan these drainage solutions if the snowmelt is not moving as it should.

Related Reading: Landscape Lighting Tips & Tricks

Precision Pruning & Garden Care

Pruning is a technical skill that dictates the future health and shape of your trees and shrubs. You can perform structural pruning in early spring to remove the three Ds: dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Removing these obstacles allows the plant to redirect its energy toward healthy new shoots.

Timing is vital. Avoid pruning spring-flowering shrubs, such as lilacs or forsythia, until after their first bloom. Cutting them now would remove the very buds you have been waiting all winter to see. If you are unsure where to make the proper cuts, our crew members are trained to handle these delicate transitions for you.

Hardscape & Outdoor Living Reset

A high-end landscape is a functional living space. To keep your outdoor kitchen, patio, and fire pit ready for use, perform a seasonal reset with a focus on preservation. You can use a garden hose and a soft-bristle broom to remove the salt and grit of winter. Exercise extreme caution if you choose to use a power washer. High pressure can blast away the oplymeric sand in the joints, destabilizing your pavers.

If your stone has been professionally sealed, avoid power washing entirely. The force can strip away the protective sealant and leave the stone vulnerable to staining and moisture. Instead, use a specialized stone cleaner to maintain the finish. This level of detail keeps your outdoor retreat looking polished while protecting the integrity of the build. If you notice structural shifts or missing joint sand, our design-build team can restore your living space to its original vision.

Related Reading: 5 Common Patio Problems and How to Fix Them

Optimizing Your Irrigation for the Season

Your irrigation system is the lifeblood of your landscape during our dry Northern Michigan Julys. As part of your spring yard cleanup, we recommend a quick visual check of the property. Look for any sprinkler heads that may have shifted due to frost or snow removal during the winter. Simply observing a test cycle allows you to verify that water is reaching your garden beds and turf without hitting your siding or windows. This proactive check maintains the efficiency of the system and protects your plants from the first warm stretch of the year.

Related Reading: Irrigation Systems and Services

Professional Mulching & Edging

A defining characteristic of a professional spring yard cleanup is the clean line between the turf and the garden bed. You can achieve this by creating a deep “V” trench that defines the shape of your landscape beds. Acting as a physical barrier, the trench prevents grass roots from invading your intentional garden spaces. Meticulous edging keeps the perimeter of your home looking sharp and well-maintained.

Once the edges are set, apply a fresh layer of premium hardwood mulch. Maintain a depth of two to three inches. Beyond providing a polished aesthetic, proper mulching suppresses weed seeds, regulates soil temperature, and retains moisture during our summer heatwaves. Careful placement is key: keep mulch away from the base of tree trunks. Avoiding “mulch volcanoes” protects the bark from rot and insect infestation. If the physical demand of hand-cutting these edges becomes an obstacle, our crew members can step in to provide that professional finish for you.

Moving Forward with Confidence

A spring yard cleanup is a rewarding ritual for many homeowners. It offers a chance to reconnect with the soil and witness the first signs of life in the garden. However, the scale of some Northern Michigan properties can require more than a weekend and a rake.

When the physical demands of property preparation become an obstacle to enjoying the season, our teams are ready to step in. We bring specialized equipment and a deep understanding of local ecology to every project. This allows us to provide a level of precision that protects your investment and maintains the health of your landscape for years to come.

Reach out today to see how we can help give you time back this spring.

If you would rather spend your summer enjoying the lake than working the dirt, our team is here to help.

Contact our design team to discuss your property.

Yearly Color Commitment: Understanding Annuals

Annuals are your “instant gratification” plants. They live for one single season. Once they have established their roots in your soil, they bloom consistently until the first hard frost. Because they do not return next year, they invest their energy into producing flowers rather than deep, permanent root systems.

Utility of Annuals

Think of annuals as the “jewelry” of your home. They solve the problem of “green gaps.” While your larger shrubs and perennials may only bloom for two weeks, annuals provide a reliable splash of color throughout the summer. They are the perfect tool for high-traffic areas like your front entryway or lakeside patio.

• Latana: These are incredibly heat-tolerant and thrive in the bright sun of a July afternoon. They are a favorite for properties along the water where the sun reflects off the bay.
• Geraniums: A classic choice for a reason. They offer sturdy stems and vibrant clusters of flowers that stand up well to the occasional heavy lake breeze.
• Petunias: Modern varieties like “Supertunias” are bred to be self-cleaning. This means you spend less time “deadheading” (removing old blooms) and spend more time enjoying the view.

Northern Michigan Constraints

Patience is your best tool in the spring. While the air might feel warm in mid-May, our soil temperatures often lag behind. We typically suggest waiting until the threat of the frost has truly passed and the ground has warmed consistently. This timing is a moving target in Grand Traverse and Leelanau, but waiting for that sustained warmth prevents the loss of your investment.

Related Reading: How to Help Your Annuals Beat the Heat

Long-Term Foundations: Investing in Perennials

Perennials are the long-term residents of your estate. These plants return year after year, growing stronger and more established with every season. They are the structural backbone of a sophisticated landscape.

Utility of Perennials

Perennials offer a “set it and forget it” utility. Once a plant is established in your Benzie County soil, it requires significantly less water and attention than an annual. They follow the natural rhythm of our climate, disappearing in winter and emerging exactly when the Northern Michigan spring calls them back.

• Hostas: These are the gold standard for shaded woodland properties. With varieties ranging from deep blue-green to bright chartreuse, they provide incredible texture.
• Daylilies: These are exceptionally hardy and can handle the diverse soil types found across our region. They offer a reliable burst of mid-summer color.
• Coneflower: A favorite for those who value local ecology. These native-style perennials attract pollinators and stand up to the cold Northern Michigan winters with ease.

Strategic Trade-Offs

The main drawback of perennials is their limited bloom time. Most varieties flower for only two to three weeks. To solve this, our landscape designers select varieties with interesting foliage so your garden looks intentional even when the flowers are resting.

Related Reading: The Best Plantings for Year-Round Color and Interest in Northern Michigan

Strategic Mixing: How to Choose for Your Property

Choosing between the two isn’t about picking a favorite type. It is about how you want to live on your property.

If you love the ritual of gardening and want to change the look of your home every spring, a landscape heavy in annuals allows for creativity. If you prefer an effortless lifestyle where the garden takes care of itself while you are at the office or on the boat, a perennial-heavy design is the better investment.

TruNorth Strategy

We believe your outdoors should be a place of rest, not a list of chores. A professional landscape design uses perennials to create the bones of the property and annuals to provide the jewelry. This layered approach provides the best of both worlds: the reliability of year-over-year growth and the vibrant pop of seasonal color.

We also handle the drainage, the soil chemistry, and the long-term planning. You simply enjoy the view.

Related Reading: The TruNorth Design-Build Process

Maintaining the Vision

Regardless of what you plant, success in Northern Michigan comes down to soil health and timing.

Our sandy local soil drains quickly. Perennials need that deep root structure to survive in a dry August, while annuals need consistent nutrients to keep those blooms coming. Most perennials also benefit from being cut back in late fall or early spring. This simple maintenance encourages new growth and keeps the estate looking polished rather than overgrown.

What Now?

Does your current landscape feel like it’s working against you? A quick audit of your sun exposure and soil type can change everything.

Your next steps:

• Identify your High-Visibility Zones: Decide where you want constant color and where you want low-maintenance structure.
• Observe the Soil: Check if the ground has truly warmed before you begin your seasonal planting.
• Plan for the Long Term: Consider which areas of your yard you want to set and forget with perennials this year.

If you would rather spend your summer enjoying the lake than working the dirt, our team is here to help.

Contact our design team to discuss your property.

Common Signs of Backyard Standing Water

When the ground is saturated from spring rains and lingering snowmelt, your property’s drainage system is under a lot of pressure. Water management is the invisible backbone of any luxury estate. If that water has nowhere to go, it creates pools of backyard standing water that can damage your lawn. In some cases, it can even push against your home’s foundation.

By walking your property right now, we can spot the high-stakes problems that summer grass usually hides:

• Natural Low Spots: We see exactly where the land “traps” water. This helps us plan for better landscape grading and leveling before the construction season begins.
• Flow Patterns: We can track the path water takes from your roof to your property line. Whether it is a heavy April rain or the final snowmelt, these “rivers” across a lawn show us where the natural exit points should be.
• Soil Saturation: We see where the ground is struggling to keep up with the moisture. This informs our future planting choices and soil amendment strategies.

Related Reading: Building Your Dream 2026 Northern Michigan Landscape: Our 5-Step Process

Understanding the Ground Beneath Your Feet

The success of any landscape drainage solutions depends heavily on what lies beneath the surface. Northern Michigan is famous for its patchy soil. While our region is dominated by sandy soils, our land can change quickly the closer you get to the water.

Most of our area features deep sand. This is generally great for drainage because water moves through it quickly. However, near our lakes and in certain inland pockets, we often encounter heavier clay or organic “muck” soils. These areas act like a bathtub. They hold onto water and refuse to let it sink into the ground. On these estates, we have to be much more aggressive with our drainage designs to prevent the soil from becoming a swamp.

Related Reading: Case Study: A Stunning Landscape Makeover for a Home Nestled Between Water and Wetland

Why Your Patio Might Break

Many homeowners view drainage as a boring, secondary part of a landscape project. They would rather talk about the outdoor kitchen or the fire pit. However, skipping the foundational work is a gamble that rarely pays off in the Great Lakes region.

In Northern Michigan, the ground can freeze several feet deep. When water is trapped in the soil beneath your patio, it has nowhere to go. As that trapped moisture freezes and expands, it creates immense pressure. This constant movement can cause a patio to crack or settle unevenly if the drainage isn’t fixed from the start.

The good news is that this is usually not a failure of the stone itself. It is a drainage failure. If you move the water away from the base of your patio, you remove the force that causes the damage. A dry foundation stays level for decades because there is no water left to expand and shift the stone.

Related Reading: The Foundation of the Transformation: The People Behind the Phone

Professional Tools for Moving Water

When we visit a property for a consultation, we generally look at drainage through two lenses: do we want to hide the solution, or do we want to make it a design feature? More often than not. Homeowners prefer a “hidden” approach that handles the water without changing the look of the yard.

The most typical application for this is using NDS drain tile to manage roof runoff. We connect your gutters to underground pipes that lead to a pop-up emitter. These emitters stay flush with the ground when dry, only raising to release water once a storm begins. This specialized setup controls the flow and prevents the concentrated flooding that often happens right next to a foundation.

For areas with unavoidable standing water, we also utilize French drains or channel drains. A French drain relies on a buried, perforated pipe to pull water away from the surface. Conversely, a channel drain sits near hardscapes like driveways or patios to intercept water before it has the chance to pool.

Advanced Design Options for Water Management

For more complex issues, we offer several other premium landscape drainage solutions that add visual value to your estate:

• Walls & Tiers: On sloped properties, stone walls create levels. These levels break up the flow of water and prevent soil erosion. They also provide a more flat, usable space for gardens or seating areas.
• Catch Basins: These act like a large drain for your yard. They collect massive amounts of runoff from downspouts or low spots and direct it into an underground system.
• Rain Gardens: We can turn a naturally wet area into a feature by using moisture-loving native plants. These plants act like a sponge, soaking up excess water naturally.
• Dry Creek Bed Design: This is a popular luxury drainage solution. By using river rocks and boulders, a natural stream look can be created. These are beautiful when dry, but they act as a high-capacity channel during a heavy spring storm.

Planning Your Spring Project with Certainty

Our process creates a future where every stone and every tree sits on a solid, engineered foundation. By spotting these “puddle points” today, we provide a landscape that stands strong for decades. It does not matter how much snow or rain the Michigan climate brings. We build things to last.

Contact us to schedule a consultation with our design team today.

Concrete Advantage for Compact Spaces

As an authorized Plunge Plus dealer, we provide precast concrete pools that are specifically designed for the challenges of Northern Michigan. In places like Benzie County, where yards can be hilly or compact, these steel-reinforced units are a game changer.

Because they are smaller and incredibly durable, our team can tuck them into corners or integrate them into existing patios where a standard pool would be impossible to install. These units offer a sustainable choice, too. Their lower water volume means you use fewer chemicals and less energy to keep the water at the perfect temperature for a late night dip.

Related Reading: Spotlight on Sustainable Landscaping at Your Northern Michigan Home: Eco-Friendly Practices to Consider

Why Winter is the Secret to Summer Success

You might think that a pool project has to wait until the spring thaw, but a winter pool installation is actually one of the smartest ways to manage a site with limited access. Since these units are manufactured in a controlled indoor environment, they are ready to go even when the snow is flying.

We recently handled a project (watch a video of it here on our Facebook) where a crane was used to lift a pool directly over their home and into the backyard earlier this winter. This plunge pool installation Michigan strategy means we get the heavy machinery and structural work done while your landscape is dormant. When spring arrives, we can focus on the compact backyard landscaping and stone work. You will be swimming my Memorial Day instead of watching a construction crew in your yard all June.

Related Reading: 7 Trending Landscape Ideas for Your Outdoor Space in Grand Traverse and Leelanau County

Smart Sizes for Every Space

The Plunge Plus line offers four distinct models to solve your space challenges. Every model features a consistent 48-inch depth, making them perfect for standing and socializing.

• The Nantucket (7′ x 13′): Fits into the tightest urban lots.
• The Vineyard (9′ x 16′): A versatile choice for most suburban backyards.
• The Cape (9′ x 12′): Plenty of room for lounging and floating.
• The Cape Plus (9′ x 21′): Features an integrated spa for the ultimate luxury.

Our team can customize your setup with hydrotherapy jets, automated covers, and smartphone controls to fit your specific lifestyle.

Related Reading: Fiberglass vs. Concrete Plunge Pools: Which is Right for Your Backyard?

Building Your Outdoor Retreat

At TruNorth Landscaping, we are a full-service operation. We do not just drop a pool in a hole, we design the entire environment so it feels like a natural extension of your home. We value work-life balance, and we know that a well-designed backyard is essential for recharging after a long week.

If you’re tired of thinking your yard is too small for a pool, let our team show you what is possible.

Partnering with the Right Landscaping Team in Grand Traverse and Leelanau County, MI

When it comes to choosing a landscaping company, selecting a full-service team that understands the local environment can make all the difference. Our staff manages your entire project from the initial design to long-term maintenance so you never have to wonder who is responsible for the next step.

TruNorth Landscaping is proud to offer in-house design, architectural services, expert installation, and year-round maintenance tailored to the unique needs of our Northern Michigan clients. We specialize in the Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Benzie County areas, only taking on the types of projects we do best. This focus helps us deliver top-tier results from a team that truly listens to your goals.

Whether you are starting from scratch or refreshing a space you already love, choosing the right professionals matters. With TruNorth, you do not have to juggle multiple contractors or wonder who to call when you have a question. Our teams know your project and your vision, and we have the coordination in place to keep your landscape looking great for years to come.

Ready to bring your dream outdoor space to life? Contact us to schedule a consultation with our design team today.

The Initial Connection

The process typically begins with a call to our front desk. This is where you will meet Chad, our Office Admin. As our first point of contact, he ensures you are connected with the right person to help with your specific needs. Whether he is answering a billing question or getting a new lead into the right hands, Chad makes sure the start of your experience with us is organized and efficient.

Once the initial conversation begins, Kathy, our Design Liaison, becomes the primary point of contact for the planning phase. She helps bridge the gap between a wishlist and a professional plan. Kathy often reminds homeowners that a professional design is the most vital factor in how the finished project turns out. This planning goes beyond aesthetics by addressing the technical health of the property. As our COO and Owner, Douglas, often advises, this means looking at the ground up, as drainage should always be the first consideration of any new landscape. By integrating these technical needs into our design process, we build beauty that survives the Michigan season for years to come.

Related Reading: Our Design Process: A deep dive into how we move a project from a sketch to a site plan

Landscape Project Coordination & Logistics

As the project moves from a concept to a schedule, the “invisible” work of the office becomes the heartbeat of the operation. This stage of landscape project coordination requires significant foresight. Our Office Manager and Owner, Kelsey, reminds homeowners that it is never too early to begin planning for maintenance or new installs. Behind the scenes, she manages the financial health of the company. Her work with accounts payable keeps our resources in place so the company can stay in motion.

While Kelsey manages the books, Chad monitors the practical details that keep us on the road. This includes everything from our office supplies to tracking fuel levels for our fleet so our crews can reach every job site without delay. Even the internal stability of the company plays a role in a successful build. Our HR Director Brady, manages the payroll and support systems that keep our craftsman focused on their work, while Douglas keeps our headquarters running smoothly by handling the maintenance tasks that keep the office functional.

Related Reading: Commercial Spring Maintenance: Practical tips for the season from our maintenance team

Capturing the Result

As the project nears completion, the focus shifts to documenting the transformation. Kirstin, our Marketing Manager, handles everything from social media and print materials to the visual storytelling of our finished estates. She works to show the work as stunningly as it appears in person. By documenting these projects, she helps the next homeowner visualize the potential hidden in their own backyard through our landscape project management process.

Related Reading: Explore our Project Gallery to see some of our favorite Northern Michigan transformations

Beyond the Office

A successful project requires focus and dedication, but we also strongly believe that a healthy work-life balance is what keeps our team at its best. We take pride in the work we do, but we equally value the time we spend away from the office enjoying the unique environment of Northern Michigan. As the snow melts, you will find us reclaiming our favorite local spots to recharge.

For Doug and Kelsey, that means getting back to the water, whether they are heading to the beach, taking the boat out, or hosting a sunset bonfire at Good Harbor. Others take the to the trails. You might find Kathy horseback riding with her best friend, or see Kirstin running the quiet, wooded stretches of the North Country Trail with her dogs. From the local restaurant balconies in Traverse City to Brady taking his final ski runs of the season, our team is as invested in the Northern Michigan lifestyle as the clients we serve.

Partnering with the Right Landscaping Team in Grand Traverse and Leelanau County, MI

When it comes to choosing a landscaping company, selecting a full-service team that understands the local environment can make all the difference. Our staff manages your entire project from the initial design to long-term maintenance so you never have to wonder who is responsible for the next step.

TruNorth Landscaping is proud to offer in-house design, architectural services, expert installation, and year-round maintenance tailored to the unique needs of our Northern Michigan clients. We specialize in the Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Benzie County areas, only taking on the types of projects we do best. This focus helps us deliver top-tier results from a team that truly listens to your goals.

Whether you are starting from scratch or refreshing a space you already love, choosing the right professionals matters. With TruNorth, you do not have to juggle multiple contractors or wonder who to call when you have a question. Our teams know your project and your vision, and we have the coordination in place to keep your landscape looking great for years to come.

Ready to bring your dream outdoor space to life? Contact us to schedule a consultation with our design team today.

Step 1: Connect with our Design Liaison

Every great landscape starts with a simple, focused conversation. When you reach out to TruNorth Landscaping via phone or online form, your first point of contact is our Design Liaison. This role is dedicated to the discovery phase of your project. We want to hear about your goals and the specific challenges of your property before we ever dive into technical details.

To help us prepare for our first meeting, you will receive a brief questionnaire. We ask about your preferred aesthetic style, how you plan to use the space, and your budget expectations. This early alignment is critical. It ensures our team arrives at your home with a clear understanding of your needs. This step is about making sure we are the right partner for your vision and setting the stage for a successful, long-term collaboration.

Related Reading: Check out our portfolio for ideas!

Step 2: Professional Design Consultation

Once we have covered the basics, our Design Liaison will schedule an on-site visit to your property. This is a working meeting where you will meet members of our design team. Depending on the project, this might include a Landscape Designer, a Project Manager, a Registered Landscape Architect, and the Design Liaison. We walk the land with you to take measurements and discuss the physical possibilities of the site in-person.

We look at the unique topography of your land. We consider how factors like the wind coming off Lake Michigan in Glen Arbor or the sun exposure on a Long Lake lot will affect your outdoor living. This meeting is where your ideas start to meet our professional expertise. There is a flat fee for this on-site consultation which the Design Liaison will review with you during the initial scheduling.

Step 3: Conceptual Landscape Design

After the site visit, the creative work begins in earnest. We take everything we learned during the consultation to build a conceptual plan. This is a high-level layout that shows the flow of your new yard. It covers the placement of hardscapes like stone patios or walkways and the general arrangement of planting beds. This plan acts as the foundation for every decision that follows.

You will have the chance to review this concept and provide feedback on the layout. It is a collaborative process where we refine the plan until it feels just right for your lifestyle in Suttons Bay or Lake Ann. There is a design fee for this stage based on the size and complexity of your project. We discuss this fee during the consultation so you have total clarity before any drafting starts. If you happen to already have a professional plan from another firm, we are happy to review it to see if it fits our construction requirements.

Related Reading: Curious about the best greenery for our unique climate? Check out our guide on Native Plants for Northern Michigan Landscapes.

Step 4: Final Design & Proposal

Once the concept is approved, we move into the technical phase. This is where we produce the detailed construction drawings needed for a precise and lasting build. These drawings include the exact placement of irrigation, lighting, and specific plant varieties. They also feature the technical data our crews need, such as elevations and material specifications, to ensure everything is built to withstand our northern winters.

Along with these technical drawings, you will receive a detailed proposal. This document provides a transparent breakdown of the pricing and overall costs for the project. We believe in absolute clarity before work begins. You will know exactly what the investment looks like and what the contract covers. This eliminates the guesswork and ensures that we are all on the same page before the installation phase starts at your home in Northport of Empire.

Step 5: Professional Landscape Installation

When the proposal is accepted, we secure your spot on our construction schedule. This is the moment your property begins its physical transformation. Your Design Liaison and Project Manager will guide you through the next steps and keep you updated on the timing of the build.

Our team supervises the entire installation to confirm that every element follows the approved construction drawings. We coordinate our crews and manage the site with a focus on quality and professionalism. Our goal is to make the construction phase as smooth as possible for you. Our Project Manager visits the site regularly to monitor progress and ensure that the final result matches the high standards we set during the design phase. Whether we are working in Downtown Traverse City or a quiet corner of Maple City, we treat every site with the same level of respect.

Bonus Step: Green Team

A new landscape is a living investment. The first few years are important for trees, shrubs, and turf as they settle into their new environment. For homeowners who want to enjoy their new space without the hassle of ongoing upkeep, we offer a transition to our specialized Green Team, a division of TruNorth Landscaping. We provide customizable maintenance plans that cover everything from irrigation checks to pest control. This is a great way to ensure your property remains healthy and beautiful year-round while you simply relax and enjoy the results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which areas of Northern Michigan do you serve?

We serve a wide range of communities across the region. In Leelanau County, we work in Glen Arbor, Empire, Maple City, Leland, Suttons Bay and Northport. In Grand Traverse County, we handle projects in Traverse City, Long Lake, Interlochen, and the Old Mission Peninsula. We are also accepting projects in Benzie County, including Crystal Lake, Frankfort, and Lake Ann.

How soon can we schedule a meeting?

Timing usually depends on the season and our current schedule. Northern Michigan has a defined construction window, so we recommend reaching out as early as possible. You can call us at 231-922-0087 or complete our contact form to get started.

How long until I receive a design or estimate?

Design time varies by the size of the project. Typically, you can expect a conceptual plan between six and ten weeks after the initial consultation is complete. Our Design Liaison is available for questions regarding your specific timeline.

How does project scheduling work?

We set your place on the construction schedule once the design is approved and a deposit is paid. We take into account the project scope and seasonal weather conditions to give you a realistic window for when work will begin.

What happens if I already have a landscape plan?

If you have a plan from another designer or architect, we are happy to review it. Please reach out to our Design Liaison to discuss the details of your existing plan and see how we can help with the installation.

Where do you source your plants and materials?

We prioritize local quality. Many of our plants are grown in our greenhouse in Leelanau County. We also source materials from trusted nurseries across Michigan and hardscape suppliers who provide the best products for our northern climate.

Partnering with the Right Landscaping Team in Grand Traverse and Leelanau County, MI

When it comes to choosing a landscaping company, selecting a full-service team that understands the local environment and can manage your entire project from design to maintenance can make all the difference.

TruNorth Landscaping is proud to offer in-house design, architectural services, expert installation, and year-round maintenance—all tailored to the unique needs of our northern Michigan clients. We specialize in the Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Benzie County areas, and we only take on the types of projects we do best. That focus ensures you get top-tier results from a team that truly listens.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing a space you already love, choosing the right professionals matters. With TruNorth, you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors or wonder who to call when you have a question. Our teams know your project, your goals, and how to bring your landscape to life and keep it looking great for years to come.

Ready to bring your dream outdoor space to life? Contact us to schedule a consultation with our design team today.

Understanding the True Pros and Cons of Hiring a Professional

One of the biggest hesitations around professional landscape maintenance is cost. On paper, hiring a professional team is usually more expensive than assigning landscaping tasks internally. But that comparison often overlooks the full picture.

When landscaping is handled in-house, there are still significant expenses involved. Commercial-grade equipment is costly to purchase and maintain, and it needs a secure place to be stored. Fertilizers, mulch, and other materials must be sourced regularly. Most importantly, someone on staff needs the time, physical ability, and knowledge to do the work properly, and that time comes at the expense of other responsibilities.

Professional landscape teams bring a level of expertise that can be difficult to replicate internally. Trained crews know how to identify early signs of turf stress, drainage problems, plant disease, or pest issues before they become major, costly repairs. They also understand how to apply fertilizers and treatments correctly, which protects plant health, reduces waste, and minimizes environmental risks.

Access to better equipment and materials is another advantage. Professional-grade mowers, pruning tools, and application equipment deliver cleaner, more consistent results. Landscape professionals also use higher-quality fertilizers, soil amendments, and mulch blends that are selected specifically for regional conditions and long-term performance.

Understanding the True Pros and Cons of Hiring a Professional

Cost is usually the first factor people consider, and it’s true, professional landscape maintenance typically costs more upfront than handling tasks internally. But that comparison often overlooks the difference between reactive and proactive maintenance.

When landscaping is managed in-house, costs tend to be reactive. A mower breaks and needs repair. Turf declines and requires re-seeding. Shrubs grow out of control and need aggressive pruning to correct the issue. These fixes often cost more than routine care would have, simply because problems were allowed to develop.

There are also the less obvious costs: purchasing and maintaining commercial-grade equipment, storing it securely, sourcing fertilizers and materials, and allocating staff time to physically demanding work. Even when those expenses are spread out, they’re still part of the total investment.

Professional landscape maintenance shifts the focus to proactive care. Trained crews know what healthy turf and plants should look like and can spot early warning signs, whether that’s stress from drought, compaction issues, disease, or drainage problems. Addressing these concerns early helps prevent expensive repairs and keeps the landscape healthier overall.

Professionals are also trained to apply fertilizers, weed control products, and other treatments correctly and responsibly. Proper timing, application rates, and product selection matter, not just for results, but for safety and environmental stewardship.

Consistency Is Often the Biggest Difference

One of the most noticeable advantages of professional landscape maintenance is consistency. When landscaping is handled internally, it’s often treated as a “get to it when you can” task. Busy weeks, staff shortages, or shifting priorities can easily push maintenance off schedule.

With a professional partner, landscaping is completed when it should be, not when someone happens to have time. Lawns are maintained weekly during peak growth. Beds are cared for before weeds take over. Seasonal services happen on schedule, not after issues become visible.

That consistency matters in Northern Michigan, where timing is everything. A delayed spring cleanup can shorten an already brief growing season. Missed pruning windows can affect plant health for the rest of the year. Waiting too long on fertilization or weed control can mean playing catch-up all summer.

Professional teams plan around these timing challenges, adjusting services based on weather patterns and growth conditions to keep landscapes looking polished throughout the season.

One Partner, Many Needs

Commercial properties rarely need just one landscaping service. In addition to routine maintenance, many properties benefit from seasonal flower installations, mulching, planting updates, or gradual landscape upgrades. Over time, outdoor spaces may need to be refreshed to stay functional and appealing.

In Northern Michigan, winter adds another layer of responsibility. Snow removal and winter site safety are just as important as summer curb appeal. Working with one partner who understands your property year-round can simplify communication and long-term planning.

Instead of juggling multiple vendors or shifting responsibilities internally, having a trusted landscape partner creates continuity. That familiarity leads to better decision-making and landscapes that evolve intentionally rather than reactively.

So, Is Partnering with a Professional Worth It?

For many commercial properties, professional landscape maintenance is less about outsourcing and more about protecting an investment. It’s about ensuring the property looks professional, remains safe and usable, and reflects the care and attention you put into your business.

Outsourcing landscape maintenance allows property managers and business owners to focus on their core responsibilities, knowing the landscape is being handled consistently and thoughtfully. It also reduces the likelihood that small issues will turn into expensive, disruptive problems later on.

For commercial properties in and around Traverse City, working with a local team that understands Northern Michigan’s climate, seasons, and expectations can make a meaningful difference. TruNorth Landscaping partners with commercial clients to provide reliable, professional landscape maintenance that supports both the appearance and long-term health of their properties, without unnecessary complexity.

Searching for a commercial landscaping maintenance partner you can trust? Get started today by filling out our contact form. 

Why Landscaping Matters for Your Business: Especially in Northern Michigan

Traverse City is known for its seasons, its scenery, and its outdoor lifestyle. When the weather finally turns, and summer arrives, people want to be outside, walking, dining, gathering, and enjoying everything the area has to offer. Businesses that lean into this naturally stand out.

Strong curb appeal signals professionalism, care, and attention to detail. A well-kept landscape tells customers and clients that you invest in your property and, by extension, in their experience. It can also:

• Make your business more inviting and approachable

• Help you stand out in a competitive area

• Encourage people to linger longer on-site

• Create pride and enjoyment for employees

Whether you manage an office building, restaurant, retail space, or mixed-use property, landscaping plays a key role in how your business is perceived from the outside and how it functions day to day.

Start with the Foundation: Consistent Maintenance That Shows You Care

Before diving into major upgrades, it’s important to recognize that basic landscape maintenance has one of the biggest impacts on curb appeal. Even the best-designed property can look tired or neglected without regular care.

Mulching for a Clean, Polished Look

Fresh mulch does more than protect plant health—it creates contrast, defines beds, and gives landscapes that finished, intentional appearance. Clean mulch lines around trees, shrubs, and planting beds instantly make a property look cared for and professional.

In Northern Michigan, mulch also helps regulate soil temperature and retain moisture during warmer months, supporting healthier plants throughout the season.

Regular Mowing, Edging, and Bed Care

Crisp lawn edges, evenly mowed turf, and weed-free planting beds go a long way in boosting curb appeal. These details may seem small, but they’re often what people notice first.

Consistent maintenance keeps landscapes from looking overgrown or forgotten and ensures your property always looks ready for customers, tenants, or visitors, no matter the day of the week.

Seasonal Attention Makes a Difference

Summer is prime time for outdoor visibility, but it’s also when landscapes grow fast. Regular check-ins, pruning, and adjustments help maintain shape and balance while keeping everything looking intentional rather than wild.

Use Planting Design to Create Visual Interest and Identity

Thoughtful plant selection and layout can help reinforce your brand and make your property more memorable.

Layered Plantings Add Depth and Curb Appeal

Using a mix of trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses creates layers that add texture and visual interest. This approach avoids flat, one-dimensional landscapes and instead draws the eye in.

In commercial settings, layered plantings can soften building edges, define walkways, and frame entrances—guiding people naturally toward your front door.

Seasonal Color Keeps Landscapes Engaging

In a region with strong seasonal changes, incorporating plants that provide interest throughout the growing season is key. Summer blooms, varied foliage textures, and greenery that holds its shape help landscapes look vibrant even as conditions change.

Seasonal color can also be updated strategically to keep the property feeling fresh without a full redesign.

Create Outdoor Spaces That Invite People to Stay

One of the biggest opportunities for businesses in Traverse City is making use of outdoor space during the warmer months.

Patios and Seating Areas Extend Your Usable Space

Adding a patio, seating area, or outdoor gathering space can transform how people interact with your property. For restaurants and cafes, outdoor dining can be a major draw. For offices or commercial campuses, seating areas give employees and visitors a place to step outside, relax, or have informal meetings.

Well-designed patios with durable materials, thoughtful layout, and surrounding landscaping feel like a natural extension of the building, not an afterthought.

Landscaping Makes Outdoor Areas Comfortable

Plants play a key role in making outdoor spaces usable. Trees and large shrubs can provide shade, reduce glare, and create a sense of enclosure. Strategic planting can also help buffer noise from parking lots or nearby roads.

When outdoor spaces feel comfortable and intentional, people are more likely to use them and remember them.

Improve Walkways and Entrances to Guide the Experience

Your landscape should do more than look good, and it should guide people through the space.

Defined Walkways Create Flow

Clear, well-maintained walkways help direct foot traffic and make properties feel organized and easy to navigate. Landscaping along walkways can subtly guide visitors toward entrances while adding visual appeal.

Entrances Should Feel Inviting

Your main entrance is a focal point. Framing it with plantings, decorative stone, or accent features draws attention and makes it feel welcoming. This is often where curb appeal has the greatest impact, as it’s where people pause before entering.

Balance Beauty with Practicality

Commercial landscapes need to look great, but they also need to function well.

Choosing durable materials, plants suited to Northern Michigan conditions, and designs that are easy to maintain helps ensure your investment continues to pay off year after year. Smart planning reduces long-term maintenance challenges while keeping the landscape looking polished and intentional.

A Thoughtful Approach Makes All the Difference

Commercial landscaping doesn’t have to be flashy or overdone to be effective. Often, it’s the thoughtful details, consistent maintenance, intentional design, and well-used outdoor spaces that make the biggest impact.

For businesses in Traverse City, landscaping is an opportunity to connect with the outdoor lifestyle that makes the area special. When done well, it enhances curb appeal, supports your brand, and creates spaces people genuinely enjoy spending time in.

If you’re thinking about ways to improve your commercial property’s landscape, working with a local team that understands Northern Michigan’s climate, seasons, and expectations can make the process smoother and more successful. TruNorth Landscaping partners with businesses throughout the Traverse City area to design, build, and maintain landscapes that support long-term goals, without losing sight of what makes each property unique.

Want to learn more about our commercial landscape services? Get started today by filling out a contact form. 

Project Background: A Home Nestled Between Water and Wetland

The site where the home was being constructed was breathtaking, framed by a quiet lake on one side and a protected wetland on the other. The property offered the kind of views most people only dream about, but it also left very little room to work. Every step had to be intentional, every material carefully chosen, and every design element crafted to enhance the natural beauty rather than overwhelm it.

From the beginning, it was clear the clients envisioned a place where they could relax, host family and friends, and feel immersed in the natural serenity around them. They wanted the landscape to feel as though it belonged between the lake and the wetland to create a sense of peaceful continuity rather than a stark separation between the home and its surroundings.

But before any of the design work could begin, the project demanded a deep understanding of environmental regulations, soil conditions, access limitations, and the unique micro-ecosystem that surrounded the site.

Existing Conditions: An Extraordinary Setting With Complex Limitations

Building between a lake and a wetland is both a privilege and a puzzle. On one hand, the location offered unmatched beauty. On the other, the site presented formidable challenges. Access was restricted due to the environmental protections surrounding the wetland, meaning that equipment, materials, and crews could not move freely. The soil, influenced by water on both sides, required thoughtful grading and structural support to ensure long-term stability.

Because of the property’s unique placement, state and county oversight was strict. Every part of the project, from excavation to drainage to hardscape installation, had to be approached with careful attention to environmental impact. This level of oversight is essential for protecting sensitive ecological areas, but it also adds complexity to every decision.

Despite these limitations, the clients remained steady in their vision of a peaceful outdoor sanctuary, and they trusted TruNorth to bring that vision to life while respecting the land that made their property so special.

Overcoming Challenges: How TruNorth Managed a Sensitive and Complex Site

One of the biggest challenges was the location itself. Constructing a home between a lake and a wetland meant that every move had to be approved, documented, and carefully executed. TruNorth worked closely with EGLE and county officials, ensuring that all permits were properly secured and that the landscape design blended naturally into the surrounding wetland environment. This collaboration ensured the project stayed compliant while still allowing the homeowners to enjoy a beautifully integrated outdoor space.

Another challenge was the use of XL paver slabs, which were relatively new in the industry at the time. These oversized slabs offered a clean, modern aesthetic and were ideal for creating smooth, inviting patio spaces, but they required specialized equipment to handle safely. Our team used precision tools and machinery to lift, transport, and place each slab exactly where it needed to be. The result was a series of outdoor living surfaces that were both beautiful and structurally sound.

Midway through the project, a third challenge emerged when the placement of the sewer tank changed. This required the team to rethink parts of the design, particularly the front sidewalk and surrounding planting beds. Our team led the effort to redesign and reconfigure these areas so the final layout could accommodate the new septic system, which was needed to pump grey water out of the wetland area and up to an evaporation field near the road. Rather than letting this change disrupt the project, the team adapted quickly and seamlessly, ensuring the design remained cohesive and functional.

Every one of these challenges required thoughtful problem-solving, open communication, and a willingness to adjust course when needed. In the end, those adaptations made the final design stronger, more functional, and even more in tune with the property’s natural setting.

Standout Features: Thoughtful Details and Beautiful Craftsmanship

While the technical aspects of the project were substantial, the finished landscape is defined by its beauty and inviting warmth. One of the standout features is the Borealis wood storage structures. These pieces provide both function and charm, giving the clients a dedicated space to store wood while maintaining the natural, organic feel of the property. Their aesthetic blends perfectly with the wetland surroundings and enhances the overall atmosphere of the outdoor living space.

Another favorite feature is the fire-pit area. The client purchased a beautiful fire pit, and our team helped integrate it into a dedicated gathering space that feels like the centerpiece of the landscape. Surrounded by thoughtful hardscaping and carefully placed plantings, the fire-pit area offers a peaceful spot to relax, unwind, and take in the incredible views that stretch in both directions. It quickly became their favorite part of the entire project, and it’s easy to see why. It captures everything the clients hoped for in their retirement oasis.

The Final Result: A Peaceful, Harmonious Retirement Retreat

By the end of the project, the transformation was remarkable. What began as a narrow strip of land between a lake and a wetland became a harmonious outdoor retreat that feels fully at home in its environment. The homeowners now enjoy a landscape that enhances their views, respects the ecology around them, and provides the spaces they need to fully embrace life on the water.

The clients shared how pleased they were with the end result, expressing gratitude for the effort, adaptability, and care the TruNorth team put into the process. The fire-pit area, in particular, quickly became a beloved space, offering warmth, comfort, and a perfect vantage point for soaking in the beauty of their retirement home.

Crafting Landscapes That Respect Nature and Elevate Everyday Living

This project is a testament to what thoughtful design, environmental respect, and true craftsmanship can accomplish. At TruNorth, we believe the landscape should be an extension of the home, but also an extension of the environment around it. When those elements come together, the result is something truly special.

For homeowners building or renovating near wetlands, lakes, or other sensitive environments, our design/build team is here to guide the process, navigate the regulations, and create an outdoor space that feels both responsible and extraordinary.

Ready to start designing your dream outdoor space in Grand Traverse County? Fill out our contact form today!