Bringing Purpose, Beauty, and Usability
to a Challenging Hillside
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
Neighborhood: Franklin, TN
Client goal: A transformed hillside designed for comfort, connection, and year-round enjoyment.
PROJECT FEATURES
- Firepit
- Irrigation
- Water Feature
- Lighting
- Retaining Walls
- Landscaping
- Hardscaping
THE CHALLENGE
To transform a steep, rocky, and nearly unusable backyard into a functional outdoor living space.
With difficult site access and minimal existing landscape in the rear—despite lush front plantings—the challenge was creating safe circulation, usable square footage, and purpose on a demanding slope.
OUR APPROACH
We worked with the natural grade by adding terraced stairs, seat walls, and defined gathering areas.
Fresh plantings, irrigation, and integrated lighting brought life and usability to the space. A dramatic water feature flows down toward the lower fire pit patio, tying the upper and lower levels together.
THE RESULTS
What was once an inaccessible hillside is now a layered retreat built for everyday use and enjoyment.
Thoughtful grading, comfortable seating, warm lighting, and a cascading water feature transform the space into a backyard that feels functional, inviting, and full of character.
“This project was a great reminder that even the most challenging spaces have potential. Turning this space into something the homeowners can actually use and enjoy was such a great feeling. I’m really proud of how it all came together.”
Eric VanGrinsven | Design Consultant
Looking to refresh your outdoor space in the greater Nashville, Tennessee area? Gardens of Babylon is a highly rated landscaping company with over 20 years of experience in landscape design, installation, and maintenance. Our team brings creativity, craftsmanship, and a passion for nature to every project. Share your vision with us by filling out our online form, and we’ll be in touch to start designing your outdoor oasis!