There’s nothing quite like lake life! And if you have a home on Lake Keowee, you’re probably looking to maximize your time and enjoyment outdoors. For that reason, you might be looking for lakefront landscaping ideas that will transform your property into a dream space.
Of course, there are certainly challenges that come with lakehouse landscaping. Landscapes along the lake must effectively address water management and erosion issues as well as look good.
In this article, we’ll talk about some of those unique challenges and also give you some ideas that might work for your property.
Jump To:
What Makes Lakefront Landscaping Different?
Luxury Lakefront Landscaping Ideas to Add Beauty and Value
Choosing Plants That Thrive on Lakefront Properties
Why Professional Planning Matters for Waterfront Landscapes
FAQs on Lake Keowee Landscaping
Create a Lakefront Landscape That Feels Like a Private Resort
What Makes Lakefront Landscaping Different?
Waterfront landscaping is naturally going to pose some unique challenges including slopes and erosion, Lake Keowee 804 shoreline protection and HOA/ARB rules, and high moisture levels, just to name some common ones.
A lakefront property is not like a typical flat yard. But we like to say that’s also what makes them interesting.
Of course, it’s important to make sure that you are working with a landscaper who is familiar and skilled at working on lakefront properties. There are many nuances that are learned over time. And mistakes can lead to fines and costly repairs.
Luxury Lakefront Landscaping Ideas to Add Beauty and Value
First and foremost, the most important step is to create usable space. Since there are very few flat lots around Lake Keowee, we first need to look at managing the water. Once we can solve any water or drainage issues in the yard, then we’ll focus on creating flat, usable space.
Drainage solutions (like river rock swales, catch basins, dry wells, etc.) are going to be an important part of water management. In addition, it’s almost impossible to complete any lakehouse landscaping ideas without incorporating a retaining wall. In most cases, you need to install boulder walls and structural retaining walls to help create usable space where you can have a lawn or a patio with an outdoor living area.
Backyard landscaping in Lake Keowee typically includes features like paver patios, synthetic turf areas, putting greens, outdoor living spaces with features, and structures like a pergola or pavilion for shade.
The idea is to add outdoor living features that inspire everyone to maximize their time outdoors. Even if you’re not out on the lake, you want to find ways to be outside and enjoy the lake and its view.
Choosing Plants That Thrive on Lakefront Properties
The rocky soil and waterfront conditions near the lake can make plant selection near Lake Keowee different from other parts of The Upstate. You want to make sure that you’re selecting plants that can perform well in these unique conditions.
But one of the biggest challenges we face in choosing plants for Lake Keowee are the deer! Many deer live around the lake and there is no plant that is truly 100-percent deer-proof. We do look to install plants that are deer-resistant but can’t make any promises that hungry deer won’t stop by for a chomp.
Many lakefront property owners are also looking for plants that are low-maintenance. Oftentimes these are second homes and you want to be outside enjoying your spaces, not tending to the plants or worrying for their wellbeing while you’re away.
Some of the plants that we commonly use around Lake Keowee homes include:
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Boxwoods
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Butterfly Bushes
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Blueberry Bushes
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Hollies
We also use a variety of conifer greens and ornamental grasses.
As with any plant selection, it’s going to depend on your specific site conditions. Many Lake Keowee properties are also very wooded, so we might also look for plant choices that will perform in shade like hostas or coral bells.
Why Professional Planning Matters for Waterfront Landscapes
Landscaping on a waterfront property is a complex endeavor. Bringing a professional landscaper in to handle all of the planning helps protect your property investment, preserves the lake’s water quality, and ensures legal compliance.
There can be strict environmental regulations to navigate. For Lake Keowee, we deal with Duke Energy, who can be very strict and highly specific about what’s allowed. Understanding shoreline stabilization, water management, and erosion control rules is imperative.
It’s so critical that you’re working with a landscape provider who has already mastered the complexities of a project like this, including remaining in compliance with any rules and regulations. Repairs down the road can be a huge headache and expense.
FAQs on Lake Keowee Landscaping
What plants grow best on a Lake Keowee waterfront property?
Every site is going to have unique differences but plants that are relatively low maintenance and can tolerate rocky and wet soil are often best. Many lakefront properties are also shaded. We commonly install many ornamental grasses, conifer greens, herbs, and various shrubs on lakefront properties.
How do you landscape a sloped lakefront backyard?
Solving water and erosion challenges will be key. Drainage solutions like river rock swales, catch basins, and dry wells are often used. One of the best ways to landscape is with retaining walls, which help get more usable space.
What are the best outdoor living features for a lakehouse?
Some of the most popular outdoor living features for a lakehouse include paver patios, fire features, putting greens, and structural additions, like pergolas and pavilions. But before being able to add any outdoor living elements, the first step will be creating flat and usable space, most likely with a retaining wall.
Do I need erosion control when landscaping a lakefront property?
Yes, you will need erosion control solutions when landscaping around Lake Keowee. At Lake Keowee, we are specifically dealing with Duke Energy, who governs all shoreline activities, including land alterations. They have specific rules around erosion control and how it is handled.
How can I improve my lake views without sacrificing privacy?
Many Lake Keowee homes are not right on top of each other, so there aren’t major privacy concerns. Plus, the lake view is typically at the back of the house. If you do have properties nearby, we can do very natural screening with larger trees like conifer evergreens. This can give a natural-looking screen around the sides of the home which can carry into the back of the yard.
We’ll also make sure not to block any lower windows or a deck or patio with a view. We know that having clean site lines to the lake is incredibly important to lakefront homeowners.
Create a Lakefront Landscape That Feels Like a Private Resort
Your wise choice in landscape design and installation in Greenville, Lake Keowee, and Upstate SC, can help ensure that your Lake Keowee landscaping is everything you want and need it to be!
Getting started with lakefront landscaping for your Lake Keowee home is an exciting endeavor! But you want to make sure that you have the right partner leading the way.
At Precision Landscape, we’re here to help ensure you’re getting everything you dreamed of when the work is finished. Homeowners in Lake Keowee, Greenville, Travelers Rest, Greer, and Simpsonville trust us to create their dream spaces.
We have a lot of experience working on Lake Keowee and understand all of the complexities that come with a project like this.
If you’re looking for a long-term landscape partner, we’d love to help you take the next step. We’re here to make everything streamlined and easy for you. You can count on us to handle every detail with care so that your property looks exceptional.
Ready to get started? Fill out our consultation form and we can help you create your dream landscape today.
