Black Rock Hillside Retreat

Location: Black Rock Community, Idaho
Services: Full Landscape Design + Build
Duration: Approx. 2 Months
Client Type: Remote Homeowners

Project Overview

This custom landscape transformation in the prestigious Black Rock community reimagined a sloped backyard and side yard to create a functional, organized, and elegant outdoor living space. The homeowners wanted to soften the transition down the hillside, upgrade their fire pit area, and introduce a clean, curated feel with structured plantings, all while adhering to strict HOA guidelines.

Client Goals

The clients came to us with a clear vision:

• Replace harsh rock areas with bark and softened transitions using pavers and boulders

• Completely redesign and rebuild the fire pit and patio area

• Add mounded garden beds for visual interest

• Redo the lighting and fine-tune the sprinkler system

• Remove the dry river bed in the backyard and haul it off

• Include a deer-resistant, clean-cut plant package with columnar forms

• Comply with Black Rock HOA requirements for all plant and tree selections

Despite being out of town, the homeowners stayed highly involved via FaceTime check-ins with Randy (our owner and lead designer) and had trusted friends on-site to provide feedback throughout the build.

Design Vision

The design concept focused on functionality, flow, and views. Stone steps and carefully placed boulders created a natural descent along the side of the home, while mounded garden beds and structured plantings added softness and intentionality. The redesigned patio—with a new propane fire pit—now serves as a cozy focal point with views stretching over the valley and lake.

[Watch the design walkthrough]

Construction Details

This full build included:

• Grading and soil prep

• New sod installation from King Sod

• Irrigation system upgrades

• Lighting installation

• Bark installation with Advanced Bark Blowing

• Rock curbing by Perfection Edge

• New boulder work and hardscaping throughout

• A propane fire feature with a brand-new patio area

• HOA-approved, deer-resistant trees and plants

The project was completed over three months, with some delays due to weather. Our on-site crew—Brandon (foreman), Cameron, and John—brought this vision to life with attention to detail at every turn.

The transformation is night and day—from a rocky, uninviting slope to a structured, serene outdoor living space designed to last.

Project Highlights

• Stunning hillside transition with functional flow

• Clean, modern plant palette that meets HOA rules

• Fully remote collaboration with frequent video updates

• Fire pit patio with a panoramic view

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