When their children left for college, these St. Paul homeowners envisioned their sloped backyard becoming the gathering place they'd always dreamed of – a space for intimate evenings and lively celebrations alike. What began with a new garage and entertainment space evolved into a complete reimagining of a steep, monoculture lawn into a series of distinct outdoor rooms. Inspired by the rugged beauty of Minnesota's North Shore, the design creates natural transitions between a fireside gathering area, sauna retreat, and lounging spaces – each zone offering its own atmosphere while flowing seamlessly into the next. Custom-built antiqued concrete stairs navigate the grade changes, turning what was once a maintenance-heavy hillside into an accessible, multi-level experience.

Gitchi Gumee trap rock boulders anchor the landscape with the same ancient presence found along Lake Superior's shoreline. A bluestone patio provides the foundation for gathering, while native birch groves and evergreens frame each space. Pollinator-friendly grasses and perennials replace the former lawn with texture, movement, and year-round interest that requires a fraction of the upkeep. The result is a landscape that celebrates this new chapter – a retreat that honors Minnesota's North Woods character while creating the perfect backdrop for the many gatherings, quiet mornings, and sauna sessions that fill these empty-nester years.