DESIGNED WITH INTENTION.
BUILT TO LAST.
LANDSCAPE & HARDSCAPE DESIGN AND INSTALLATION IN CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA.
Reclaiming the Ridge: An Indian Land Transformation
A Backyard Lost to the Incline
For this Indian Land family, their backyard wasn’t a retreat—it was a liability. A steep, aggressive slope made the space nearly impossible to maintain and completely unusable for hosting. The soil was eroding with every Carolina rain, and the “view” was something they could only see from their deck, never experience on the ground. They didn’t just need a patio; they needed to conquer the topography of their own property.
Key Constraints:
Unusable Grade: A vertical drop that prohibited foot traffic.
Structural Erosion: Destabilized soil threatening the lawn’s health.
The Hortus Solution
Engineering Elegance from the Ground Up
We approached this project as a blend of structural engineering and outdoor luxury. We carved a 100-square-foot sanctuary directly into the hillside, anchored by a custom-built bench wall. This feature does double duty: it retains the massive weight of the slope while providing permanent, elegant seating for guests.
At the center, a hand-laid firepit serves as the heartbeat of the new terrace, connected to the upper lawn by a series of deep-set architectural stone steps. What was once a “dead zone” is now the premier destination of the home.
The Result:
Integrated Masonry: Multi-functional retaining bench for maximum utility.
Safe Passage: Solid stone steps designed for a natural, effortless descent.
The Firepit Hub: A perfectly leveled 10ft x 10ft pad for year-round Indian Land evenings.
