When this client reached out to MWM Landscaping & Grading, she already had a clear vision for her Cary landscape design. She wanted a beautiful outdoor space that felt intentional, welcoming and polished while still complementing her home and existing landscape.
Our team was able to take her vision and bring it to life with a complete backyard renovation that included a custom paver patio, retaining wall, landscape lighting, grading and a brand-new zoysia lawn.
A Custom 17×17 Circular Patio
One of the main features of the renovation is a 17-foot by 17-foot circular patio designed to create a comfortable outdoor gathering area.
For the patio, we installed Techo-Bloc Blue 60 Slate pavers, which provide a sophisticated natural-stone appearance while offering the durability needed for an outdoor living space.
The circular design adds visual interest to the backyard and creates a natural focal point. It also gives Valerie a dedicated area for enjoying the yard, entertaining guests and spending time outdoors.
Weston Stone Retaining Wall
To complement the new patio, we constructed a half-moon retaining wall using Weston Stone.
The curved wall follows the shape of the patio and helps define the space while adding another layer of structure and dimension to the landscape. We finished the wall with a Champagne Grey cap, creating a subtle contrast that ties the hardscape elements together.
The result is a retaining wall that is both functional and decorative, helping the patio feel integrated into the surrounding landscape rather than simply placed in the yard.
Regrading the Yard for a Fresh Start
A beautiful landscape begins with a properly prepared site.
As part of Valerie’s backyard renovation, MWM Landscaping & Grading regraded the yard to improve the overall shape and elevations of the property. Proper grading is important for creating a more usable lawn and helping manage water flow throughout the landscape.
Once the grading was completed and the site was properly prepared, we were ready to install the new lawn.
New Zenith Zoysia Sod
The existing lawn was transformed with Zenith Zoysia sod, creating a thick, uniform lawn that provides the perfect backdrop for the new patio and landscaping.
The fresh zoysia lawn dramatically changes the appearance of the backyard, giving it a clean, finished look and creating a beautiful contrast with the patio, mulch beds and surrounding trees.
Landscape Lighting Brings the Yard to Life
Valerie’s vision didn’t stop at the daytime appearance of the landscape. We also installed outdoor lighting including up lighting and path lighting throughout the yard.
Strategically placed uplights highlight trees and landscape features, while path lights provide illumination along walkways and garden areas.
At night, the lighting creates a completely different atmosphere. The warm illumination draws attention to the landscaping, highlights the architecture of the home and makes the backyard feel inviting long after the sun goes down.
From Vision to Finished Landscape
This project is a great example of what can happen when a homeowner has a vision and works with a landscaping company that can execute all of the pieces needed to make it happen.
From the circular Techo-Bloc patio and curved Weston Stone retaining wall to the new Zenith Zoysia lawn and professionally installed landscape lighting, every element was designed to work together.
Our client knew what she wanted—and MWM Landscaping & Grading delivered.
The finished backyard is now a beautiful, functional outdoor space that can be enjoyed during the day and well into the evening.
Complete Landscaping Services in Cary, NC
MWM Landscaping & Grading provides landscaping, grading, hardscaping, sod installation, retaining walls and landscape lighting for homeowners throughout Cary and the surrounding Raleigh area.
Whether you’re looking to completely renovate your backyard or transform one area of your property, our team can help turn your ideas into a finished landscape you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Ready to transform your Cary backyard? Contact MWM Landscaping & Grading to discuss your landscaping project.





