Our NE Portland clients had a yard working against them: a mossy front lawn, too much grass to maintain, poor drainage, and two active dogs. Here is how we traded struggling turf for a layered, pollinator-friendly garden of Pacific Northwest natives.

See how Northwest Native Landscapes transformed a plain NE Portland backyard into a functional outdoor retreat with a cedar arbor, custom hot tub enclosure, stormwater rain garden, raised beds, and a full sustainable plant palette.

This backyard started as a simple open space with limited structure and no defined zones for gathering, relaxing, or entertaining. The homeowners wanted something elevated and timeless. Their goal was a refined garden retreat centered around water, layered plantings, and outdoor living.

This relaxing outdoor retreat embraces a Pacific Northwest style with natural materials and multiple outdoor spaces. The front entry is clean and classic, reflecting the homeowners’ desire for contemporary curb appeal.

The homeowners appreciated the historic charm of their home but wanted their garden to evolve into a more modern space. We completely transformed the front and back yards using local hardscape materials and native plantings, creating a finished product that feels distinctly “Portland.”

This multi-acre estate on Sauvie Island embraces a light touch to complement the scenic beauty surrounding the garden. Rustic stone steps, walls, and a fire circle reflect natural colors and local materials.

This sloped garden was transformed into a modern outdoor retreat. We designed and installed an outdoor kitchen, elevated dining area, hot tub, steel terraces, and a flagstone patio with a fire table.

This compact backyard features multiple defined spaces for entertaining large groups on a natural flagstone patio, cooking meals in the custom cedar outdoor kitchen, or lounging quietly with a book in an informal rock area.

Sometimes a backyard looks fine on the surface — grass, a fire pit, some shrubs — but doesn’t actually work for the way you live.

Some yards hold incredible potential but need the right design to make them safe, functional, and welcoming for everyday life.