This multi-phase drainage and landscape project in the Village of Deerfield, Illinois began by correcting improper water flow that had caused persistent flooding, oversaturated lawn areas, and unstable soil conditions. Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc first installed a comprehensive drainage system, including 60 linear feet of perforated French drain, two 9” NDS catch basins, river rock backfill, and a buried downspout with solid PVC to properly redirect runoff. Once stable conditions were established, the team completed full bed preparation with fresh topsoil and compost, berming and grading adjustments, and a complete front and backyard landscape installation featuring conifers, specimen trees, shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses, natural stone accents, and a Creeping Thyme turf-replacement area. By addressing drainage first, the project ensured long-term soil stability, plant health, and a cohesive outdoor space built for lasting performance and curb appeal.
We showcase some of our landscaping projects here. We feature a selection of our landscaping projects here, highlighting our work in drainage solutions, grading, and overall yard improvements.
Deerfield Drainage and Landscape Installation Project
Park Ridge Historic Home Structural Restoration and Drainage Improvement Project
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. is completing a multi-phase structural restoration and drainage improvement project for a historic 1923 home in Park Ridge, Illinois, focused on long-term durability, water management, and structural integrity. The project began with installation of a new Unilock rear walkway integrated with an NDS drainage system to capture stormwater from downspouts and redirect it away from the foundation, followed by reconstruction of the front walkway and custom Unilock stair system built with proper excavation, base preparation, and pitch correction. The current phase includes full structural porch restoration with temporary structural support, replacement of failing columns with new composite columns, new concrete footings, rebuilt framing, composite decking installation, and custom powder-coated railings for strength and longevity. This comprehensive exterior renovation combines proper grading, reinforced footings, drainage engineering, and high-performance materials to preserve and strengthen this 100+ year old Park Ridge home for decades to come.
Deerfield IL Pool Removal and Backyard Landscape Transformation Project
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. is completing a full inground concrete pool removal and backyard transformation project in the Village of Deerfield, Illinois. The project began with complete demolition of the pool shell, removal of the concrete deck, and extraction of all underground plumbing and mechanical systems, followed by debris haul-off, proper backfilling, and rough grading to stabilize the yard for winter, with fine grading and seeding scheduled for spring. Phase two includes installation of a Unilock retaining wall along the west fence line, full-property regrading for improved drainage and elevation control, new sod across the backyard, and a concrete foundation for a shed in the northeast corner. This phased landscape renovation converts a former pool area into a structurally stable, properly graded, and fully functional outdoor space built for long-term performance.
Park Ridge Drainage System Replacement Project – Foundation Flooding Repair and PVC Regrading Solution
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. began the season by correcting a failed PVC drainage system at a residential property in Park Ridge, Illinois, where improper grading and a short discharge line caused repeated flooding near the foundation — even during snowmelt. The existing pipe ended in a T-fitting just below the surface, leaving water with no proper outlet. Our team removed the faulty system, installed an extended PVC run to carry water safely away from the home, laser-regraded the flow line for precise pitch, and added an underground NDS Flow Well for proper dispersion. The result is a fully re-engineered drainage solution that efficiently moves water away from the structure and provides long-term protection against heavy rain and seasonal thaw.
Park Ridge Front Staircase and Walkway Restoration Project
This Park Ridge front staircase and walkway project restored the function and character of a 100-year-old home through a complete rebuild of the deteriorated brick entry. Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc removed the existing materials, repaired the concrete base, tuckpointed the wing walls, and installed a full NDS drainage system with 4” solid PVC to properly manage water. The bottom landing was rebuilt, new curved concrete steps were poured, and rock-faced limestone treads were installed with detailed finishes. The entryway was completed using Unilock Brussels Block and Copthorne pavers with limestone borders, creating a durable, well-drained, and timeless front entry that blends seamlessly with the newly paved sidewalk and is built to last.
learn more about this landscaping project»Lincoln Park Garage Drainage Project with Nds-Channel Drain
A homeowner association in Chicago’s Lincoln Park struggled for years with garage flooding caused by improper drainage pitch and concrete alignment. Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc resolved the issue by removing the faulty channel drain and surrounding concrete, installing a new 50-foot NDS Pro Series channel drain, and reconstructing the entire 10×50-foot garage floor with precise grading. The fully integrated system now directs water efficiently out of the garage, providing a long-term, reliable solution that keeps the space dry in any weather.
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Custom Holiday Winter Container Pot Installation Project in Glenview
This holiday container pot project in the Village of Glenview features a coordinated set of six custom-designed winter arrangements professionally installed by Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. Each seasonal container was crafted using fresh evergreen branches including arborvitae, juniper, pine, and fir, and accented with red winterberry, red dogwood, white birch branches, pine cones, golden berries, and festive red bows. Designed by an in-house landscape professional, these winter pots provide bold color, texture, and long-lasting curb appeal throughout the holiday and winter season.
Park Ridge Backyard Privacy Landscaping with Emerald Green Arborvitae and Fence Line Planting
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. completed a backyard privacy project in Park Ridge focused on enhancing screening along the fence line using layered evergreen plantings. Work included site cleanup, soil improvement with screened topsoil, and the installation of eight 5-foot Emerald Green Arborvitae to form a clean, uniform privacy hedge. Final touches included shrub pruning, redefined bed edges, and fresh hardwood mulch, resulting in a structured, low-maintenance privacy solution with year-round appeal.
learn more about this landscaping project»Backyard Drainage System and Kentucky Bluegrass Sod Installation in Kenilworth
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. completed a backyard drainage and lawn restoration at a private Kenilworth estate, addressing long-standing water issues while rebuilding the lawn from the ground up. The project included soil replacement, fine grading, and the installation of 100 feet of perforated PVC drainage pipe connected to an existing crate and pump system, all completed while working around underground utilities and pond infrastructure. The yard was finished with mineralized Kentucky Bluegrass sod, fertilized and rolled for a smooth, durable lawn designed for long-term drainage performance.
learn more about this landscaping project»Landscape renovation in Niles – New Trees, Plantings, Drainage & Lighting
This Village of Niles project is one of Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc.’s favorites—a complete backyard and side yard transformation that brought structure, beauty, and functionality to the property. The team installed a Flowering Dogwood (‘Cherokee Prince’) as a focal point, Clethra shrubs for privacy, and a mix of perennials and ornamental grasses for color and texture, while the front yard received a ‘Royal Star’ Magnolia and Incrediball Hydrangeas for added curb appeal. All planting areas were roto-tilled, graded for proper drainage, and enriched with compost before being finished with shredded hardwood mulch. Overgrowth and dead shrubs were removed, existing plants were reshaped for better form, and the landscape lighting system was upgraded with Centennial Brass Kichler fixtures and a new 300-watt transformer—creating a landscape that’s polished by day and beautifully illuminated at night.
Project in Skokie retaining wall replacement with durable unilock stone
After more than 20 years, the original wooden retaining walls at this Village of Skokie property had reached the end of their lifespan, so Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. rebuilt them from the ground up. The new design features multi-colored Unilock Brussels Dimensional Stone, Unilock full nose non-tumbled coping in Sierra, and a fully engineered structure built for long-term performance. The result is a custom retaining wall that combines strength, durability, and timeless style—delivering a transformation that truly stands out.
Park Ridge Property Landscaping for Home Sale — Full Yard Cleanup
Dream Town Realty – Team Fallico partnered with Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc to prepare a City of Park Ridge property for real estate listing photos, resulting in a complete curb appeal transformation. The team created defined planting beds, added fresh mulch, trimmed hedges, removed overgrowth, and polished every detail for a clean, professional look. The result was a photo-ready exterior that not only enhanced first impressions but also increased the property’s perceived value — proving once again that great landscaping doesn’t just improve appearance; Great Landscaping Optimizes Worth.
Park Ridge pondless waterfall installation with unilock stone
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc recently completed a stunning pondless waterfall in the heart of Park Ridge — a natural, low-maintenance feature that transforms the space with sound and movement. Built using Unilock outcropping stone, Wisconsin boulders, river rock, and a powerful waterfall pump kit, this design brings the beauty of flowing water without the upkeep of a pond. Safe for kids and pets, it offers peaceful ambiance, attracts birds, and creates a true backyard escape — perfect for smaller yards or city living.
Park Ridge Front Yard Makeover Landscaping Project
When the top real estate producer in Park Ridge, Baird and Warner – Team Fallico, partnered with Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc for a property just steps from the Park Ridge Country Club, the transformation was immediate. What began with overgrown hedges, invasive buckthorn, and worn mulch became a refreshed, high-appeal landscape featuring clean lines, healthy greenery, and new mulch. As part of the Tommy Pollina + Team Fallico GLOW Program (Great Landscaping Optimizes Worth), the project proved that strategic landscaping not only enhances appearance but also increases property value — ensuring every home is photo-ready, market-ready, and built to impress buyers.
Rolling Meadows Retaining Wall Repair Project, Engineered Drainage System And Safety Restoration
At the Meijer property in Rolling Meadows, a collapsing retaining wall exposed a severe drainage failure, as water had accumulated for years due to lack of proper engineering. The sliding wall began pulling down the fence near a busy freeway, creating a serious risk to both property and drivers. Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc intervened to remove the damaged sections, install a fully engineered NDS drainage system with perforated pipe, catch basins, and geotextile layers, and rebuild the wall for lasting stability. The result is a secure retaining wall, safe surroundings, and a prime example of how over 45 years of landscaping experience solves complex, high-risk problems with dependable solutions.
Park Ridge Front Yard Landscaping Project With Grading, Plantings, Lighting, And Durable Hardscapes
This Park Ridge property received a complete outdoor makeover, with every trade from Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc working together to create a seamless, functional, and lasting system. The project included precision grading for proper water flow, a full NDS drainage system integrated with high-performance artificial turf, a custom timber retaining wall, and hundreds of plantings including shrubs, perennials, and trees for privacy and structure. Additional features include Kichler landscape lighting, a custom pergola, Unilock Arctic natural cleft steppers, irrigation, and lush sod installation. Every element was designed to connect harmoniously, delivering a beautiful, durable, and fully integrated outdoor space built to thrive for decades.
learn more about this landscaping project»Wilmette Outdoor Landscape Project With Drainage, Irrigation, Turf, Plantings, And Kichler Lighting Systems
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc completed a full outdoor system at a Wilmette property, installing an NDS drainage system, underground irrigation, custom turf with built-in drainage, fresh sod, and over a hundred trees, shrubs, and perennials, all enhanced with Kichler landscape lighting. Beyond installation, the team returned to ensure irrigation, plantings, and lighting were functioning perfectly, emphasizing their commitment to creating a fully integrated, thriving, and long-lasting outdoor space.
Riverwoods Full-Property Drainage Project Preventing Flooding And Water Damage
For years, this homeowner’s yard, driveway, garage, and foundation flooded every time it rained. After over 45 years of solving complex drainage problems, Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc knew a simple fix wouldn’t be enough. This project required a complete, integrated NDS drainage solution that connected every part of the property. The team began with an extensive system audit using scopes to trace water flow and blockages, followed by laser-guided measurements to achieve precise grading and connectivity. They reconstructed and re-pitched the driveway with dual channel drains tied into the system, performed hydro-jet cleaning to clear years of buildup, and rebuilt and rerouted drainage lines for long-term reliability. Every component — from yard to foundation — now works as one cohesive system, keeping the property dry no matter the storm.
Precision Drainage Engineering Project in the Village of Willowbrook
This Willowbrook property sat at one of the lowest points in the neighborhood, where years of heavy rainfall caused constant flooding with nowhere for the water to go. To solve it, Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. designed a precision-engineered drainage system focused on grading, flow control, and soil balance. The team stabilized slopes with timbers, added soil and crabapple trees for structure, and finished with mulch for root protection. They regraded the entire backyard, installed new sod for stability, and built a 77-foot-long engineered swale with a 40-foot extended drain line to redirect runoff safely away from the home. What was once a floodplain is now a fully functional water management system – protecting the foundation, restoring the yard, and turning a problem property into a lush, usable landscape.
Park Ridge Landscape Lighting Installation Project
Some homeowners just get it — they invest in beautiful new landscapes with Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc and take it further with Kichler Lighting that both enhances and protects their property. A well-lit home says someone’s home, someone cares, and this isn’t an easy target. Lighting eliminates dark corners, increases visibility, and deters intruders before they even approach. Plus, with convertible fixtures, you can change bulbs for holidays, parties, or seasons year-round. In the end, landscape lighting completes it all — beauty, security, and the peace of mind of coming home to a space that’s warmly lit and proudly yours.
Lake Zurich outdoor enhancement and planting project
This Village of Lake Zurich, Illinois project by Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. began as a full outdoor transformation—featuring a Unilock Eden outcropping stone retaining wall, a 15’ fire pit area with pea gravel and stone edging, a flagstone patio and walkway, and lush new plantings including Japanese Maple, Viburnum, and Blue Star Juniper. Though the space was already complete and stunning, the homeowners fell so in love with their new yard that they’ve decided to add even more greenery. From large-scale drainage solutions to detailed patios, steps, and plantings, Tommy Pollina Landscape creates outdoor spaces that inspire continued imagination and growth.
Evanston custom outdoor kitchen island construction project
In the City of Evanston, Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. created a stunning backyard centerpiece — a custom 9′ x 3′ outdoor kitchen island that blends design and durability. Built with mortared block construction and finished with leathered granite countertops and a color-matched stucco/concrete slurry, it offers both strength and style. Clean mortar access doors provide seamless utility access, while two premium cooking stations — the Blaze LTE PRO 32″ 4-Burner Gas Grill and the Big Green Egg Large Kamado Grill — deliver chef-level performance. The result is a beautifully integrated space that brings together architecture, craftsmanship, and outdoor living.
Park Ridge double-lot landscape installation project
A Park Ridge homeowner took a bold step by purchasing the neighboring property and demolishing the house to create a stunning double-lot yard. Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. brought the vision to life with over 800 rolls of sod, enriched soil, and strategic plantings that blend beauty and privacy—featuring trees like Quaking Aspen and Green Giant Arborvitae, as well as vibrant perennials and shrubs including Hydrangeas, Catmint, and Dwarf Korean Lilac. Clean-lined hardscaping with Unilock pathways, river rock accents, and a custom drainage system completed the transformation. The result: a lush, expansive landscape rarely seen in the area.
Evanston Backyard Outdoor Kitchen and Chimney Construction with Stucco and Lannon Stone Features
This Evanston backyard is getting a full transformation
- A custom outdoor kitchen island with built-in grill space and gas connection, finished in stucco to blend with the home.
- A single-sided outdoor chimney on solid 42″ footings, faced with Lannon stone at the base and stucco above for a seamless match.
- Not pictured (but also underway): drainage work, new Unilock Bluestone steps, bluestone walkways, dining patio, and concrete pads + steps that tie the whole design together.
- Every detail is coming together to create a space built for gathering, cooking, and relaxing outdoors.
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Glenview landscape planting and garden installation project
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc recently transformed a hand-drawn design into a stunning finished landscape for a client in the Village of Glenview. The installation features a beautiful mix of trees, shrubs, and perennials—including a Bloodgood Japanese Maple, Incrediball® and Climbing Hydrangeas, Boxwood ‘Green Mountain,’ Phlox ‘Blue Moon,’ and Autumn Joy Sedum—along with native grasses and pollinator-friendly plants. Premium mulch and compost were added for a clean, healthy finish, bringing the entire vision to life with texture, color, and lasting appeal.
New Walkway, Fresh Sod, Native Plants & Drainage Project in Glenview
We turned a 30+ year neglected area into a beautiful, functional landscape. This project included drainage and grading work, a new walkway with Pavestone Skyline pavers, fresh sod, river rock, compost, and shade-loving plants like Astilbe and ferns. Big thanks to our crew and our amazing client for the kind feedback!
Need help transforming your outdoor space? Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc is here to help!
Inverness playground mulch and drainage improvement project for a safer, cleaner family play area
This Inverness project focused on refreshing and improving a family’s backyard play area for returning clients who trust our work year after year. We removed the old surface material, regraded the play space for better drainage, and installed new playground mulch to create a safer, cleaner, and more comfortable environment for their children. The upgraded area now blends naturally with the surrounding landscape, offering a soft, well-drained, and attractive outdoor space the family can enjoy with confidence.
Wilmette Patio and Driveway Makeover Project — Proper Gravel Base, Drainage, and Asphalt Installation.
In the Village of Wilmette, Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc completed a full patio and driveway makeover, addressing a poorly built asphalt driveway that lacked a gravel base and proper drainage. The team installed a correct gravel foundation, fixed drainage issues, and laid a new asphalt driveway, seamlessly tying it into the previously completed Unilock Copthorne herringbone patio. The result is a clean, functional, and durable outdoor space that demonstrates over 45 years of expertise in rebuilding and improving outdoor projects done incorrectly by others.
Highland Park Driveway, Walkways & Patio Project – Unilock Westport Smooth with Charcoal Border.
We’re wrapping up this Unilock driveway, walkways, and back patio in Westport Smooth in Granite with a sharp Charcoal border in the City of Highland Park, and it’s turning out beautifully. But here’s the kicker: this is the second driveway this week where we uncovered the same problem — no proper base under the old asphalt. Just soft ground and poor prep.
- Built right
- Built to last
- Built by Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc
Village of Winnetka Backyard Hardscape Project with Unilock Pavers, Outdoor Kitchen, and Limestone Steps
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. transformed an aging deck, patio, and grill area into a modern, functional backyard. The team removed the old structures and installed 1,000 sq. ft. of Unilock Bristol Valley pavers in Fossil with a Charcoal Holland Premier border, built new Brussels Dimensional Limestone steps with Ledgestone Grey coping, and constructed a granite-topped grill island. Waterfall steps, integrated landings, and polymeric sand completed the clean, durable installation for a fully refreshed outdoor living space.
Mt Prospect landscape refresh project with new plantings and cleaned bed lines
This Mt. Prospect project focused on rebuilding and refining the property’s planting beds for long-term health and a cleaner, more intentional landscape. The team removed old plant material, redefined bed lines, improved soil with mushroom compost, added strategic landscape fabric, and finished everything with triple-ground mulch for moisture retention and polish. The front yard now features an evergreen structure with hydrangeas, spirea, coneflower, Russian sage, ornamental grasses, and hostas, while the backyard highlights a Japanese Maple surrounded by layered shade plantings. The result is a healthier, better-designed landscape that will mature beautifully and complement the home for years.
Wilmette Asphalt Driveway Replacement, Patio, Drainage & Landscaping Project
Complete Outdoor Transformation in Wilmette — What began as a driveway replacement turned into a full rebuild with proper gravel base, new asphalt, custom patio, drainage system, fresh sod, lattice fence, and boxwoods, all engineered to work seamlessly together and protect the home from water issues.
This project spanned across a vast number of trades, all integrated together into one seamless system:
- New asphalt driveway with a proper base
- Custom Unilock Copthorne patio
- Integrated NDS drainage system
- Fresh sod installation
- Custom lattice fence
- 8 Green Mountain Boxwoods
Riverwoods Drainage, Grading, and Asphalt Driveway Installation Solving Long-Term Yard Water Issues
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc recently completed a large-scale drainage and grading project in the Village of Riverwoods. The work included over 250 feet of PVC piping, debris filters, rerouted lines with gravel basins, paver resetting, and yard regrading to eliminate pooling. The project was completed with a new 3,100 sq ft asphalt driveway, solving long-standing water issues with a clean, lasting finish.
Highland Park Hardscape Renovation with New Driveway, Walkways, and Patio Using Unilock Westport Smooth
During demolition of the old driveway, we discovered a major issue: the previous installation lacked a proper base, leading to a failing foundation, sinking, and cracking. We rebuilt the hardscape from the ground up, addressing these prior shortcuts by installing a solid, long-lasting foundation with proper drainage, and completed a new driveway, walkways, and backyard patio for a durable, functional, and visually appealing outdoor space.
Full Property Outdoor Makeover Project in Park Ridge – Landscaping, Hardscape, Drainage & Lighting Solutions
This Park Ridge property received a full outdoor transformation, with every trade from Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc collaborating to create a seamless, functional, and long-lasting outdoor system. For over 45 years, homeowners have trusted us to manage complete outdoor projects, integrating grading, drainage, plantings, lighting, hardscapes, and finishing touches into one cohesive design. The project included precision grading for proper foundation and water flow, a full NDS drainage system integrated with high-performance artificial turf, a custom timber retaining wall protecting the home’s foundation, hundreds of shrubs, annuals, and perennials, Kichler landscape lighting for safety and beauty, perimeter trees for privacy and shade, a custom pergola, durable Unilock Arctic natural cleft steppers for walkways, and a custom irrigation system with lush sod tying the landscape together. The result is a fully integrated, visually stunning outdoor system optimized for long-term performance, functionality, and curb appeal.
Schaumburg driveway reconstruction project with asphalt, concrete, Geo Grid, retaining wall, NDS drainage, and brick borders
This Village of Schaumburg homeowner needed more than a new driveway—the old one suffered from poor retention, flooding, erosion, and crumbling concrete. Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc approached the project as a fully integrated driveway system, combining multiple trades to ensure long-term durability and curb appeal. The renovation included asphalt paving for smooth, durable surfaces, concrete work for structural strength, Unilock Hollandstone brick borders and steps for timeless design, a Unilock Pisa XL retaining wall with built-in NDS drainage to manage water and prevent erosion, and a Geo Grid foundation reinforcing the entire driveway. Every element works together: drainage is integrated into the retaining wall, Geo Grid supports the concrete and asphalt, and masonry ties function and aesthetics into one cohesive system. The result is a driveway that stops flooding, controls erosion, reinforces structure, and delivers a stunning, fully functional outdoor system.
learn more about this landscaping project»Wilmette arborvitae wall project with layered shrubs, trees, privacy, curb appeal, and integrated landscaping
Redfin featured Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc — and this Village of Wilmette project shows exactly why.
We’re known for taking structural elements like fences and walls and making them shine with smart, layered landscaping — and that’s exactly what we did here.
This arborvitae wall in Wilmette was just installed yesterday. That’s why Redfin asked us to contribute to their latest article on how to construct fences, walls, and other structures and integrate them with layered shrubs, trees, or other plantings to function as one integrated system – designed for privacy, safety, beauty and function. We bring the structure, privacy, and curb appeal. Every time.
Planting-Bed Landscape Installation Project in Winnetka
Our team just wrapped up this fresh planting-bed installation, and we couldn’t be happier with how it turned out! We started by sculpting precise curves to complement the home’s new deck, then layered premium mulch to lock in moisture and suppress weeds. Bright green perennials up front will fill in beautifully through the season, while the mix of ornamental grasses and compact shrubs adds texture and year-round interest. The result? A low-maintenance, high-impact foundation planting that instantly boosts curb appeal and creates a welcoming entrance.
Wilmette Design Build Hardscape Renovation with Unilock Pavers, Custom Railings, and Integrated Drainage
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. is deep into a full transformation in the Village of Wilmette — and this one’s shaping up to be something special. It’s more than just a facelift — it’s a full-scale design-build upgrade.
Materials on site:
- Unilock
- Pisa Smooth XL Coping & Fieldstone
- Mattoni pavers (Sable Blend + Coco Brown)
- Ledgestone Buff Steps
- Limestone screenings, gravel base, and BEAST/diamond edging
Emergency Drainage & Grading Fix Project in Northfield Township / Glenview
1.5 inches of rain is coming — is your yard ready? See how one homeowner avoided a costly lawsuit by calling Tommy Pollina Landscape Co., Inc.
Drainage failure led to legal action by Cook County. We were the call that fixed everything.
THE PROBLEM:
- Drainage system installed with no permits
- Wrong slope, failed grading
- Standing water, flooding, and complete failure
- Legal action from Cook County
- Civil engineer brought in — and we were the only company they trusted to handle it
Niles Landscape Project with Stone Taurus Rain Garden and Native Plants
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co., Inc. completed a stunning custom landscape in Niles featuring a Stone Taurus symbol at the center of a vibrant rain garden. The design combines beauty and function with native pollinator plants like Joe-Pye Weed, Swamp Milkweed, and Cardinal Flower, stormwater management via flow wells, a pink blush rock centerpiece, seasonal blueberries and hydrangeas, and durable steel edging and granite accents. This project is a living work of art that enhances the backyard while supporting local ecology and sustainable water use.
learn more about this landscaping project»Riverwoods Landscape and Drainage Project with Asphalt Driveway, Pavers, and Water Management
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc is creating one fully integrated system to keep this property dry and functional for years to come. This large project includes a 5,500 sq. ft. asphalt driveway combined with a custom drainage network that ties together every part of the landscape — from excavating the brick patio and resetting pavers to installing catch basins and extending downspouts.Every detail is designed to work together seamlessly so water stays where it belongs and your property looks great.
Park Ridge Backyard Landscaping Project with Unilock Walkway and Over 130 Plants for a Lush, Colorful Garden Design
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc. completed a full backyard transformation in Park Ridge, starting with a custom Unilock stone walkway and evolving into a complete garden overhaul featuring more than 30 plant varieties. The once overgrown space is now filled with vibrant color and texture from Junipers, Karl Foerster grasses, Rozanne Geraniums, Queen Nectarine Anise Hyssop, and a wide mix of ornamental grasses like Sporobolus heterolepis and Deschampsia ‘Goldtau’. Long-blooming favorites such as Salvia ‘Caradonna’, Allium Millennium, and Veronica ‘Wizard of Ahhs’ add continuous interest, while groundcovers, coneflowers, hostas, and hyssops enrich the landscape. Over 130 plants were installed, all tied together with rich hardwood mulch and a thoughtful design that creates a lush, peaceful, and uniquely inviting outdoor space.
Commercial rodent exclusion fabric installation project
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co, solving complex outdoor challenges is what we do best – and sometimes, that means thinking way beyond plants and patios.
Last week, we partnered with Orkin at a local Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers to help resolve a tough rodent issue using a specialized rodent exclusion fabric. This material is designed to block entry points commonly exploited by mice and rats.
This wasn’t your typical landscape job — it was a precision-focused solution using stainless steel mesh that rodents cannot chew through. Our team expertly installed it around key vulnerable areas of the site to ensure maximum protection.
Chicago Landscape Lighting Installation Enhancing Safety, Security, Curb Appeal, and Outdoor Living with Energy-Efficient Systems
We just wrapped up a beautiful landscape lighting installation in the city of Chicago — and the transformation goes far beyond aesthetics.
Here’s why smart outdoor lighting is one of the best investments a homeowner can make:Safety, Security, Curb Appeal, Extended Living Space, Increased Property Value, Energy Efficiency.
Park Ridge Country Club Landscaping Project
CHALLENGE: Park Ridge Country Club, located on Prospect Street in the City of Park Ridge, has been a fixture in the community since 1911, serving over 500 families and thousands of members. In 2008, the club embarked on a renovation to enhance its entrances and walkways. The design team sought a material that would complement the charm and character of the historic clubhouse while standing up to heavy foot traffic and the test of time.
SOLUTION: Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc was selected to perform the installation, working alongside OKW Architects to bring the vision to life. The team chose Copthorne® pavers by Unilock – known for their timeless, European-inspired aesthetic. The pavers were site-blended in Burnt Clay, Old Oak, and Burgundy Red, perfectly complementing the club’s brick façade. Manufactured using Unilock’s EnduraColor” technology, these pavers deliver enhanced durability and lasting color, with textures cast from real stone and brick.
Kenilworth Large-Scale Plant Installation with Japanese Maples, Perennials, Ornamental Grasses, and Seasonal Landscaping
Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc is wrapping up a large-scale plant material installation in the Village of Kenilworth for one of our valued lawn maintenance clients. Even better, their next-door neighbor—also a lawn maintenance customer—is preparing for a major drainage installation. We’re proud to be transforming this block with beautiful, functional landscapes that stand out. Shrubs & Structural Plants, Perennials & Ornamental Grasses, Soil Enhancements & Mulch.
Ultimate Outdoor Living Space Project: Fireplace, Grill, Unilock Patio, Fence, Arborvitae
We’re fired up about this upcoming project in Glenview! Check out the rendering for one of our latest designs – this backyard is about to transform into the ultimate outdoor living space:
Custom Outdoor Fireplace, Grill Island with Countertop, Green Egg Smoker & BBQ Setup, Unilock Patio, Arborvitae Privacy Hedge for that lush, green seclusion, Custom Wood Fence.
Glencoe Backyard Drainage Solution with River Rock Swale, Flow Wells, and Functional Landscaping Preventing Flooding
At Tommy Pollina Landscape Co. Inc we’re all about more than just curb appeal — we create functional landscaping solution that are designed to look beautifull and sove problems. This recent project is a perfect example: A backyard swale lined with medium-sized river rock boulders now redirects excess water that used to flow in from the neighbor’s yard. At the end of the swale, we installed flow wells that capture and contain the runoff underground, preventing flooding and standing water in the yard.
Custom Baluster, Railing, Custom Brick and Mortar Stairs Project in Park Ridge
Front entrance stairs done onto the custom masoned set of stairs on the side off the raised back patio. Full custom design and build – celebrating over 45 years of solving problems and bringing solutions for outdoor spaces!
What Our Clients Are Saying
Great communication, very fast turnaround and wonderful end product. I was worried about the pavers being level after being removed and replaced but looks brand new!
Great efficient clean up, all ready for spring and summer. Perfect work.
The landscaping crew did a great job with our spring clean-up. They were efficient, careful and thorough.
The crew did a fantastic job, getting rid of winter debris and making everything look great.
I have been a client of Tommy Pollina for several years and their work is always consistent. My spring cleanup looks great!
Tommy Paulina landscaping did an excellent job. I live in Des Plaines and I’d happily recommend it for everybody.
Tommy Pollina does an amazing job at my house in park ridge with lawn maintenance , plantings I would recommend them to anyone that wants amazing service and fantastic communication
“I’ve partnered with these guys for decades we refer all customers who need tough landscape problems fixed, hardscaping , plant material installation, and drainage issues – these guys have been doing this for almost half a century – Tell them Laury sent you!!”
Great work by the entire team. Provided great design ideas and made great adjustments throughout the process.
They did a great job fixing a drainage issue in a house we recently purchased in Lake Zurich. Whitney was awesome to work with and extremely responsive.
We had a great experience working with Tommy Pollina on our front yard landscaping project. Very high quality end result and Whitney and the crew were great to work with. Thumbs up!
Overall landscape work is excellent. Leaves the yard in good shape. Moreover, bushes that were trimmed were perfect. Not sure where there would have been any room for complaint. Just a great job. Reliable and courteous workforce.
Did a great job on our backyard sod. Looking forward to spending the summer months with our new grass
5 Stars – Excellent Service and Outstanding Results! I couldn’t be more pleased with the exceptional service I received from Tommy Pollina Landscape! From start to finish, they exceeded my expectations in every way. The team was professional, punctual, and incredibly knowledgeable about every aspect of landscaping. They transformed my […]
I am absolutely thrilled with the exceptional service and transformation provided by Tommy Pollina landscaping! From the initial inquiry call to the completion of the project, the entire process took less than 4 weeks – impressive! The team did an outstanding job leveling my backyard and completely transforming my front […]
I can’t say enough great things about Tommy Pollina Landscape Company! From our very first consultation to the final walkthrough, their professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail stood out in every phase of the project. We had a large in-ground pool in our backyard that we no longer used, and […]
Tommy Pollina is an excellent company to work with. They actually tried to talk me out of some work that may have made them more money but was not necessary to solve the scope of work for my project. Joe is a seasoned veteran in the landscaping game and a […]
I have been working with Tommy Pollina Landscaping for several years and I have been very pleased with their work. I had an issue with water accumulating in my backyard. (Mallards came to swim it was so bad!) They regraded the yard, put in a French drain and installed an […]
Very Professional Clean Job. Highly Recommend by others, I was very pleased by their Service.
Joe and his team at Tommy Pollina have done an absolutely incredible job on multiple large projects for us. First to design and install a drainage system in our backyard that hooks into the city’s storm drain system which has completely eliminated our yard’s horrible flooding problems. Second we had […]
We used Tommy Pollina Landscaping (Mt. Prospect, IL) to fix all of the drainage problems that we were having in our backyard and our side yard. Larry, our salesman was very thorough, which, of course we appreciated. Once the guys came to do the job, their work was GREAT!!! They […]
I had a wonderful experience working with the professionals at Tommy Pollina. They were experts in solving the drainage problems around my property. They stand behind their work and exceeded my expectations for what I consider a fair and reasonable price. I would highly recommend them.
We used Tommy Pollina for installing better drainage in our yard and his crew did a very good job. From start to finish they worked all day and replanted new grass (seedlings) in areas that were affected. The grass is already growing back. Tommy Pollina landscaping also trimmed our tall […]
Tommy Pollina’s team was easy to work with, they worked with the County to follow regulations and to seek the proper permits needed. The drainage project work is great and was just in time for all the rainy weather!
I am thrilled with the work they did and absolutely recommend them. We had an old French drainage system in our backyard that was no longer able to disburse the water correctly. This was causing pooling and buildup, making about a quarter of our backyard mushy and unusable. We had […]
I recently moved to Arlington Heights from SC and was in over my head with snow removal. Tommy Pollina took expert care of my property – so much so that I renewed my service with them spring through fall and plan on doing so again for winter. If you’re on […]
Joe Pollina’s expertise with plants helped us create a lovely, unique front landscape to complement our hundred year old house. His choices were perfect for the west exposure and were strong healthy plants. His men were polite and easy to work with and always seemed to be neat and careful. […]
We have employed this firm for three major projects, two landscaping and one water management. All were provided at a resonable price and executed as promised with great quality. Nice people too. Highly recommend!
We have used Tommy Pollina Landscaping for years and just love them! The owner is very knowledgeable and conscientious. Ever since they planted our flowers and bushes years ago, our home has never looked lovelier on the outside. They did an amazing job with our brick pavers and sod installation […]
I’ve worked with Tommy Pollina Landscaping for more than 30 years. Installations of live goods, Hardscaping, and yard drainage systems. As well as weekly maintenance. They are professional, knowledgeable, and fair.
I have used Tommy Pollina Landscaping for 15 years, they have transformed my yard from Ordinary to Fantastic. I get compliments on my yard every day. I even have them do weekly maintenance and the men are very professional and neat, they go out to give you a outstanding job […]
30 years as a highly satisfied customer of Pollina Landscaping only begins to state how wonderful this company is! Whether it’s creative, beautiful landscaping or regular maintenance, their service can’t be beat. Try them. You’ll thank me!
Pollina has taking care of our home in Park Ridge and lake house in Antioch for many years. They have provided the best service. Lorenzo by far is so knowledgeable all the crew are polite and professional. Joe Pollina our yard would not look so good without you. I highly […]
I cannot recommend Tommy Pollina Landscape Company enough. I first used them for drainage issues. I was so pleased with the integrity of the crew that I hired them the following spring to update my garden. They are truly a company to call for your irrigation/landscaping needs.
Joe and his crew did an excellent job solving our water issues from heavy rains. Regrading our yard to get the water away from the house was accomplished with their expertise. No more anxiety when the weather turns bad. Great job and would recommend….
Excellent Service for 20 years at my home. The Crews are very respectful and my lawn- flowers and brick patio look amazing every year. I highly recommend Tommy Pollina.
Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality. Could not be more pleased with the beautiful job in transforming my gardens to a fall look that is absolutely beautiful. Thanks to the Tommy Pollina Team!
Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness, Value. We had bushes in front of our place that had been there for over 50 years. They were completely overgrown and out of control! Our neighbor has used Tommy Pollina for years and suggested we give them a try. Joe came over and made […]
Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness. Beautiful landscape that is enjoyed by all.
Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value. I recently had the pleasure of working with the amazing team at Pollina Landscape Company, and I can’t recommend them enough! They did an absolutely incredible job on my property, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. From start to finish, Pollina Landscape Company […]
Positive: Professionalism. Always great work by true professionals.
Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness, Value. Wonderful experience!! The landscape design process was super easy and ver professional. We put the project off for many years and regret that we waited so long! Now we can use and enjoy our backyard! Thanks!!
I had a small project. Many companies wouldn’t return my call or show up for an estimate appointment. Tommy and his crew were very responsive. I am very happy with my new garden.
Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Value. Joe Pollina and his team do a great job! I highly recommend them for any landscaping and/or drainage issues you may have. Weekly lawn maintenance is great and very reasonable pricing for all projects.
Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness. We hired Tommy Pollina to re-grade and re-sod our front yard. Theirs wasn’t the lowest estimate, but we’re glad we went with them. Joe came out and assessed the project and filled us in on all of our options. He and his staff communicated exactly […]
Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness. We have been dealing with water drainage issues in the back yard and between our house and a neighbors. We always had half of our driveway covered with ice most of the winter and the backyard couldn’t be mowed till late May because of the wet […]
Very happy with their snow removal contract. They do an excellent job in a timely manner whenever it snows.
Amazing service done by this company. Great staff who is very friendly and definitely show passion for their job.
Excellent work done laying sod on my front Skokie lawn. Thank you Mr.Tommy Pollina, well done
Excellent service, good place to shop for your home landscaping. Try this place.
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