The Woodland Escape

Backyard transformation in Des Moines, IA

A Dramatic Backyard Transformation With Water, Light, and Stone

For this backyard in search of soul, the vision was clear: make nature feel closer, not controlled. Earthly Possibilities Landscaping took a fading brick patio and sloped terrain and transformed it into an immersive, woodland-inspired retreat. With the sound of water weaving through boulders, uplighting softening the trees, and a stone patio positioned for connection, The Woodland Escape invites you to slow down and stay a while.

Yard transformation in Des Moines, IA
Outdoor transformation in Des Moines, IA
Pond transformation in Des Moines, IA.jpg
Backyard transformation in Des Moines, IA
Outdoor transformation in Des Moines, IA
  • Imagine stepping into a backyard where the forest feels just a few steps closer. That was the vision for the Woodland Escape, where soft edges, natural materials, and flowing movement create a seamless extension of the wooded surroundings. Every detail from the welcoming patio to the shimmering reflections in the waterfall was designed to bring that connection to life.

  • The hillside is now alive with movement and color. A cascading waterfall winds down through boulders, bringing the peaceful sound of water to every corner of the yard. At night, color-changing lights illuminate the water, shifting the mood from serene to vibrant with the push of a button. Our team carefully engineered the water flow and lighting design to create a low-maintenance feature that will perform beautifully for years to come.

  • The patio is the heart of the space—fresh, clean-lined, and built for connection. Large stone pavers offer a more stable, inviting surface, replacing the old brick with something built to last. Gentle curves in the walkway guide you through planting beds and lead your eye toward the waterfall beyond. We combined craftsmanship and thoughtful layout to create a patio that feels naturally placed within its setting.

    We constructed several sets of natural stone stairs using 48" Kasota stone step treads to navigate the backyard’s varying grades gracefully, connecting the multiple levels of the property with both elegance and functionality.

  • After sunset, the landscape transforms again. Low-voltage path lights and hidden uplights reveal layers of plantings, stone, and water that feel even more magical at night. Beds of grasses, shrubs, and seasonal color soften the edges and draw visitors deeper into the landscape. Every planting and every light was chosen with care, blending technical skill with a deep understanding of the land’s natural beauty.

  • By day, this backyard feels like a private woodland getaway—full of texture, sound, and movement. By night, it turns into a softly glowing retreat, where paths shimmer and the waterfall dances with light. Whether gathering on the patio, walking the lit paths, or simply watching from the windows, this landscape now invites you to experience something new with every step.

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Pat & team did an AMAZING job! We were looking for that Colorado look and feel & WOW did they deliver! Pat made sure every detail fit our style from design to completion! He truly cared about the project by getting to know us! The cleanup and follow-up was impressive too!! We LOVE our new space! It's so relaxing & will definitely be calling Earthly Possibilities for all our upcoming landscaping projects! We highly recommend giving Pat a call!!

— Stephanie S. via Google

Before The Transformation

Transform Your Own Outdoor Space