Mid-Century Modern Front Landscape - Ann Arbor, MI

This virtual landscape redesign enhances the front entry of a Mid‑Century Modern home in Ann Arbor, Michigan, using clean geometry, sculptural plantings, and subtle zen‑inspired elements. A new concrete panel walkway, angular planting beds, and a welcoming front‑door deck create a cohesive, architecture‑driven landscape that honors the home’s preserved mid‑century character.

The owners of this home were ready to elevate the front landscape after thoughtfully preserving much of the home’s original architecture. They reached out to us for our expertise in Mid‑Century landscapes and our familiarity with the Midwest plant palette. The entire design process was completed virtually.

One of the clients’ primary goals was to remove the original front walk that extended straight to the street. This shift required a new, longer walkway connecting the driveway to the front door. Visitors are now greeted by a Zen‑inspired gravel garden featuring specimen boulders and an Eastern Redbud tree, creating a sculptural and serene arrival moment.

Drawing from the home’s architecture, we designed a series of overlapping rectangular concrete panels to form the new front walk, punctuated by wedge‑shaped landings at both ends. These angled landings informed the geometry of the surrounding planting beds, encouraging movement and subtle pauses as visitors approach the entry. A new deck at the front door provides a small sitting area, while a line of ornamental grasses frames the entryway with soft texture and rhythm.

Slate chip mulch was incorporated beneath the home’s deep roof overhangs for a clean, modern look, and low‑voltage landscape lighting completes the design, enhancing both safety and nighttime ambiance.