Mid-Century Condo Landscape + Patios - Detroit, MI

These paired courtyard designs for a mid‑century Detroit condominium draw on period‑appropriate materials and clean geometry to create two distinct yet visually connected outdoor spaces. Wedge‑shaped patios, concrete paving, bluestone accents, and a restrained planting palette establish a cohesive mid‑century aesthetic from front to back, enhanced by thoughtful lighting and carefully scaled layouts.

Our clients reached out to us for our expertise in mid‑century landscape design. Unlike many of our projects, which focus on single‑family homes, this design involved the front and back courtyard spaces flanking a mid‑century condominium. The challenge—and the opportunity—was to make both outdoor rooms feel related while still serving their individual functions. Concrete was selected for the paved areas as a period‑appropriate and budget‑friendly material that reinforces the architectural style.

In the front courtyard, we introduced a new angled walkway leading to the front porch. The cocktail patio takes on a wedge shape, creating an optical illusion that visually enlarges the space. Bluestone steppers connect the patio to the walk, adding a subtle material contrast. Plantings include a Japanese maple, Koreanspice viburnum, and a mix of long‑blooming perennials and ornamental grasses, all chosen for their texture, color, and compatibility with the mid‑century aesthetic.

The back patio expands on the wedge concept, offering a larger footprint with a secondary grilling area. To ensure each zone was properly scaled, we laid out furniture footprints during the design process. Surrounding plantings include a Japanese tree lilac for shade, a native serviceberry, and a dwarf Japanese maple, all tied together with the same muted flower palette used in the front courtyard. Low‑voltage landscape lighting adds ambiance and functionality after dark.

Designed by James Drzewiecki, CPLD, and landscape designer Hannah Paulson, this project creates two cohesive, modern outdoor spaces that honor the condominium’s mid‑century roots while supporting contemporary living.