Courtyard Garden

About the project

Nancy Brewer wanted to transform her small urban courtyard into a lush, green retreat within the heart of Chicago. The goal was to create a serene, private space that maximizes the limited area available while incorporating a natural, free-flowing style that blends seamlessly with the city environment.

Our team started by carefully selecting shade-tolerant plants and native species to suit the light conditions and limited soil depth of the courtyard. We implemented a strategic pruning plan to maintain plant health, encourage growth, and shape the foliage to create a soft, inviting atmosphere. Through thoughtful design and plant placement, we enhanced privacy and established a sense of tranquility amidst the urban surroundings.

Designed to bring greenery and tranquility to a compact city space, this courtyard garden in Chicago combines native plants and thoughtful design elements to create a peaceful retreat amidst the urban hustle.

"North Shore Landscaping transformed my little urban area into a peaceful retreat. The team understood my vision and created exactly what I was hoping for—a slice of nature in the city."

Challenges & solutions

The project posed several challenges, including limited space, varying light levels, and the need to create a low-maintenance design that would thrive in Chicago's climate. The space was small, with little room for error, requiring careful consideration of plant selection and layout.

Solutions:
To address these challenges, we:

• Chose plants that are well-suited to both shade and partial sunlight, maximizing the use of available light.
• Used vertical elements like trellises and climbing plants to add greenery without occupying valuable floor space.
• Applied precise pruning techniques to maintain plant health and shape, ensuring an airy and spacious feel despite the compact size.
• Selected drought-resistant, native species to reduce maintenance needs and support local biodiversity.

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Outcome

The result is a beautifully crafted courtyard garden that offers a calm, green refuge in the midst of the city. The careful selection and arrangement of plants provide privacy and a sense of openness, while the natural style brings a feeling of comfort and relaxation. The space is now a perfect escape from the urban hustle, allowing Nancy Brewer to enjoy a personal sanctuary right outside her door.

Nancy is thrilled with her new courtyard, stating: "North Shore Landscaping transformed my little urban area into a peaceful retreat. The team understood my vision and created exactly what I was hoping for—a slice of nature in the city."