Picture this: it’s a warm summer evening on your Northern Michigan lakefront property, but instead of enjoying the tranquil view and your outdoor space, you’re dealing with erosion, uneven pathways, or outdated landscaping that doesn’t match your lifestyle. For many lakefront homeowners, creating a space that’s both beautiful and functional can feel overwhelming.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we understand the unique challenges of lakefront living. With 15+ years of experience transforming outdoor spaces, we know how to design solutions that enhance your property’s natural beauty while adding features that fit your needs.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 lakefront landscaping ideas to inspire your next project:
- Native Plant Landscaping
- Multi-Level Patios
- Erosion Control Features
- Waterfront Pathways
- Dockside Lounging Areas
- Fire Pit or Fireplace Installations
- Rain Gardens
- Outdoor Lighting Solutions
- Floating or Wetland Gardens
- Integrated Seating and Landscaping1. Native Plant Landscaping
PC: Lake Leelanau Lake Association
Native plants boost biodiversity and help your landscaping thrive in the local climate. They need less water, support pollinators, and stabilize sandy soil to prevent shoreline erosion. They also enhance your property’s aesthetic, creating a natural look that blends with the environment.
Considerations:
- Low-Maintenance: Native plants need less upkeep than non-native species. This makes them cost-effective over time.
- Local Regulations: Review potential rules about planting species near shorelines or protected habitats.
- Seasonal Colors: Mix plant varieties to ensure your landscaping has vibrant colors throughout the year.
Recommended Native Michigan Plants for Lakefront Properties:
- Blue Flag Iris: Thrives in wet soil near shorelines, adds vibrant purple blooms, and attracts pollinators.
- Switchgrass: A hardy grass that prevents erosion, tolerates sandy soil, and requires minimal maintenance.
- Joe-Pye Weed: Ideal for moist areas, this tall plant has pink flowers that attract butterflies and bees.
- Swamp Milkweed: Tolerates wet conditions, supports pollinators like monarch butterflies, and offers soft pink blooms.
- Black-Eyed Susan: A drought-tolerant, low-maintenance flower that adds bright yellow color and thrives in sandy soils.
2. Multi-Level Patios
Multi-level patios create different areas for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying lake views. By taking advantage of natural slopes, you can design patios that integrate into the landscape. Materials like stamped concrete or flagstone can be used to add firepits, built-in seating, and planters.
Considerations:
- Accessibility: Ensure steps or ramps are safe and easy to navigate for all guests.
- Drainage Systems: Plan for proper water drainage between levels to avoid pooling and erosion.
- Material Coordination: For a cohesive look, match the materials of the patio with other landscaping features. These features can include pathways or retaining walls.
3. Erosion Control Features
Protecting your shoreline keeps your property strong and helps maintain water quality. Erosion control features like retaining walls, boulders, or coir logs can stabilize soil and prevent runoff. These solutions also enhance the natural, rugged beauty of your lakefront.
Considerations:
- Environmental Impact: Opt for sustainable erosion control methods that limit local ecosystem disruption.
- Permit Requirements: Check local laws to ensure your erosion control plans follow regulations.
- Aesthetic Balance: Choose materials that align with the surrounding landscape. We recommend natural stone or other sustainable options.
4. Waterfront Pathways
Waterfront pathways connect your home to the shoreline and improve your property’s look. Materials like Trex decking, stamped concrete, or flagstone create durable walkways that blend with the surroundings. Adding lighting and vegetation can further enhance safety and beauty.
Considerations:
- Weather Conditions: Select materials that hold up well to moisture, freezing temperatures, and other environmental factors.
- Width and Flow: Ensure the pathway is wide enough for easy movement and follows a natural curve for visual appeal.
- Integration with Landscaping: Use edging or nearby plantings to integrate the pathway into your design.
5. Dockside Lounging Areas
Dockside lounging areas turn your lakefront into a hub for relaxation and entertainment. Adding features like pergolas, built-in benches, or outdoor kitchens makes these spaces functional and inviting. Materials such as composite decking ensure durability, while weatherproof furnishings and shade structures maximize comfort.
Considerations:
- Zoning Restrictions: Verify any regulations about structures near the shoreline or on docks.
- Storage Solutions: Incorporate built-in storage for water gear, such as paddleboards or life vests. This will keep the area organized.
- Shade Options: Use pergolas, umbrellas, or retractable awnings to provide relief from the sun on hot days.
6. Fire Pit or Fireplace Installations
Fire pits and fireplaces are perfect gathering spots, especially during cool evenings in Northern Michigan. Constructed with durable materials like stone or metal, these features add warmth and ambiance to any lakefront space. Thoughtful placement ensures they integrate into your design.
Considerations:
- Safety Codes: Ensure your fire feature complies with local safety codes about distance from structures or vegetation.
- Fuel Type: Decide between wood-burning or gas-fire features based on convenience and personal preference.
- Wind Protection: Position the firepit in a spot sheltered from strong winds for safety and comfort.
7. Rain Gardens
Rain gardens capture runoff from roofs and filter pollutants before they reach the lake. Planted with water-loving plants, they prevent erosion, protect water quality, and add greenery to your yard.
Considerations:
- Water Source: Identify areas with significant runoff to determine the best location for the rain garden.
- Plant Hardiness: Select plants that can handle both wet and dry conditions to ensure longevity.
- Garden Size: Scale the garden to match your property’s drainage needs and visual preferences.
8. Outdoor Lighting Solutions
Good outdoor lighting enhances the functionality and security of your lakefront space. Solar string lights, pathway lights, and low-voltage options are easy to install and save energy. Lighting can also highlight key features, like pathways, patios, and seating areas, adding both safety and ambiance.
Considerations:
- Light Pollution: Use downlighting or shielded fixtures to reduce light pollution and protect the natural setting.
- Automation Options: Install timers or motion sensors for convenience and energy savings.
- Fixture Durability: Select fixtures rated for outdoor use and resistant to corrosion from water exposure.
9. Floating or Wetland Gardens
PC: The Spruce
Floating or wetland gardens are a creative way to enhance the ecological health of your lakefront while adding visual appeal. These gardens provide homes for aquatic species, stabilize the shoreline, and filter pollutants.
Considerations:
- Anchoring System: Use a secure anchoring method to keep the garden in place during high winds or storms.
- Plant Diversity: Include a mix of plants to support different species of fish and birds.
- Lake Size and Use: Ensure the garden doesn’t obstruct recreational activities or create hazards for boats.
10. Integrated Seating and Landscaping
Incorporating seating into your landscaping design creates functional spaces for relaxation and gatherings. Built-in benches made of Trex, stone, or other durable materials blend with patios or decks. Adding greenery or planters around seating areas ties the design together for a cohesive, inviting look.
Considerations:
- Comfort and Shade: Position seating in shaded areas or add nearby trees or pergolas for comfort.
- Durability: Use materials that can withstand the elements, such as treated wood or weatherproof composites.
- Viewpoints: Arrange seating to maximize views of the lake, firepit, or other focal points.
Next Steps to Remodeling Your Northern Michigan Outdoor Living Space
The right lakefront landscaping ideas can improve both the beauty and function of your outdoor space, from native plants to patios and fire pits.
These upgrades help with practical needs like erosion control and create a peaceful spot to enjoy the waterfront.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we specialize in designing outdoor spaces that match your property and vision.
Ready to transform your lakefront space? Reach out to us today to explore how we can bring your ideas to life.
Now that you know more about the top Northern Michigan lakefront landscaping ideas, let’s explore why you should build a composite deck for your lakefront property and how much your structure and outdoor living space will cost:
- 10 Reasons to Build a Composite Deck for Your Lake Home - Discover why a composite deck will elevate your lakeside oasis.
- How Much Does a Composite Deck Cost in Boyne City, Michigan? - Explore how much composite decks cost in Boyne City and the factors that affect it.
- How Much Does an Outdoor Living Space Cost in Northern Michigan? - Ready to make new memories in your outdoor living space? Learn more about how much it’ll cost to revitalize your sanctuary.
