Shoreline refresh

Blending the waterfront into the natural shoreline was the primary goal of this New Hampshire lakeside landscape renovation. The existing condition included an aging deck with painted framing, warped composite decking, and a deteriorating concrete block wall that no longer reflected the character of the renovated home above.

The new design focused on key priorities: maintain comfortable lakeside seating, preserve access to the dock and water, retain lawn space for family use, and create a shoreline that feels natural from the lake. Working within restrictive shoreland regulations, the project remained largely within the existing deck and stair footprint while transforming the waterfront into a more cohesive landscape.

Locally sourced stone forms a series of low terraces stepping gently toward the lake, with bluestone flagging set on a pervious base to allow rainwater to filter back into the ground. Reclaimed granite steps provide durable access between levels, while the dock and stairs were resurfaced with ipe decking that will weather to a soft silvery tone. Native shoreline plantings, including bearberry, winterberry, sweet gale, and low-bush blueberry, blend the terrace into the surrounding landscape, creating a waterfront that feels natural, resilient, and enduring.