Top 5 Hardscaping Ideas for Lakes Area Homes

Living in the Brainerd Lakes Area means embracing Minnesota’s stunning lakes, rolling hills, and four distinct seasons. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the water or hosting a barbecue, your outdoor space should work as hard as it plays. That’s where hardscaping comes in—think patios, walkways, and fire pits that add structure, beauty, and function to your yard. Hardscaping isn’t just about looks; it tackles practical challenges like erosion and uneven terrain while boosting your home’s curb appeal.

At Jacobson Excavating and Landscaping, we’ve been helping Lakes area homeowners craft outdoor spaces that fit their lifestyle for over two decades. In this article, we’ll explore five hardscaping ideas tailored to the Lakes Area, complete with benefits, tips, and a nod to how we can assist. Let’s dive in and transform your yard into something special.

What Is Hardscaping, and Why Does It Matter?

Hardscaping refers to the non-living features of your landscape—things like stone patios, brick walkways, or concrete retaining walls. Unlike plants that need constant care, hardscaping is low-maintenance and built to last. For homeowners, it’s a game-changer because it:

• Creates usable spaces for entertaining or relaxing.

• Solves issues like sloped yards or lakefront erosion.

• Enhances your property’s value with timeless designs.

With Minnesota’s cold winters and warm summers, choosing durable materials and smart designs is key. Now, let’s get to those ideas!

Top 5 Hardscaping Ideas for Your Property

Here are five hardscaping projects that shine in the Lakes Area, designed to make your outdoor space both practical and inviting.

1. Patios: Your Outdoor Living Room

Summer calls for outdoor living, and a patio creates the perfect space for relaxing or gathering with family and friends. Paver patios, along with flagstone and stamped concrete, are popular choices that withstand freeze-thaw cycles while looking stunning. Enhance your patio with built-in benches or a central fire pit for added comfort and charm.

2. Walkways: Guide the Way

From intricate paver designs to simple gravel trails, walkways help you to easily navigate your property in style. Whether you have uneven terrain on your property or are tired of getting your feet wet from dew in the mornings and evenings, walkways look great, but are very practical. Go for gravel for a rustic feel, pavers for classic appeal, or natural stone for durability. Pro tip: add low-voltage lights along the path for evening safety and a warm glow.

3. Retaining Walls: Tame Slopes and Stop Erosion

Got a hilly yard or a lakefront lot? A retaining wall keeps soil in place and turns challenges into opportunities. Retaining walls don’t just look good, they can be a major fix to erosion concerns. There are many materials you could use—boulders for the classic up-north look and concrete blocks are our most popular options.

4. Fire Pits: Cozy Up Year-Round

A fire pit is essential. They bring warmth and ambiance, stretching your outdoor time from summer into crisp fall nights—or even snowy winter evenings. Our team has installed many brick, stone, and metal fire rings that add so much to the property for our customers. And remember, you don’t have to opt for a wood fire, gas is another option for instant flames without the smoke.

5. Water Features: Add Tranquility

Lastly, a fountain, small pond, or waterfall adds a soothing soundtrack to your yard, blending seamlessly with the area’s natural beauty. Water features are becoming more and more popular because they look great and sound great—a win win. If you have questions on water features, we are happy to give you answers!

How to Get Started with Hardscaping

Ready to upgrade your outdoor space? Here’s a simple plan:

• Define Your Vision: Want a spot for entertaining, better yard access, or erosion control?

• Choose Your Project: Pick your ideas that match your vision and budget.

• Talk to Experts: Our area’s terrain and climate call for pro insight to get it right. At Jacobson Excavating and Landscaping, we offer free consultations to kick things off. We’ll explore your property, brainstorm ideas, and design a plan that’s uniquely yours.

Wrap-Up: Elevate Your Outdoor Space

Hardscaping can take your Lakes Area home from good to great, blending practicality with beauty. Whether it’s a patio for summer parties, a retaining wall to manage a slope, or a fire pit for cozy nights, these ideas are tailored to our local landscape and lifestyle.

Since 2005, Jacobson Excavating and Landscaping has been turning yards into outdoor havens. Got a project in mind? Give us a call at (218) 851-1818 for a free consultation. Let’s create something amazing together!