Retaining Wall Reconstruction and Landscape Installation Project in Lincolnwood

The existing stone retaining wall on this property had reached a point where rebuilding was the best long-term solution. The goal of the project was not only to restore the appearance of the wall, but also to improve its structural stability and refresh the surrounding landscape with new plantings designed for year-round interest.

Project Goals

• Restore and strengthen the existing retaining wall.
• Improve drainage behind the wall to reduce water pressure.
• Refresh aging landscape beds with new plantings.
• Add color, texture, and seasonal interest throughout the property.
• Create a landscape designed for long-term performance.

Retaining Wall Reconstruction

The existing stone retaining wall was carefully removed and set aside before excavation began.

A new compacted stone base was installed to provide a stable foundation, and the wall was reconstructed with a setback designed to improve strength and long-term durability.

These improvements help provide better support and restore the appearance of the existing wall.

Drainage Improvements Behind the Wall

Proper drainage is one of the most important components of a retaining wall.

To help relieve hydrostatic pressure and improve long-term performance, the project included landscape fabric, perforated drain tile, and clean drainage stone installed behind the wall.

Together, these components help move water away from the wall and reduce the risk of future movement or failure.

Landscape Installation and Planting Bed Renovation

Once the structural work was complete, attention turned to the surrounding landscape.

Existing groundcover and aging plant material in front of the home were removed and replaced with a new planting design featuring Hydrangeas, Boxwood, Weigelia, Karl Foerster Grass, Astilbe, Sedum, Yarrow, Black-Eyed Susans, Thyme, and other perennial plantings selected to provide color, texture, and seasonal interest throughout the year.

Backyard Planting Improvements

Additional landscape improvements included removing Euonymus beneath the backyard deck and replacing it with a Climbing Hydrangea and Pachysandra to create a cleaner and more attractive planting area.

These additions help improve coverage and provide a more organized appearance around the deck.

Why Proper Wall Drainage Matters

Retaining walls often experience problems when water becomes trapped behind them.

Proper base preparation, drainage stone, perforated drain tile, and landscape fabric all work together to relieve pressure and improve stability.

Combining structural improvements with updated landscaping helps create a property that is both attractive and built for long-term performance.

Project Highlights

• Stone retaining wall reconstruction.
• Compacted stone base installation.
• Wall setback for improved stability.
• Perforated drain tile installation.
• Drainage stone and landscape fabric installation.
• Landscape bed renovation.
• Hydrangea, Weigelia, Boxwood, Astilbe, Sedum, Yarrow, Black-Eyed Susan, and perennial plant installation.
• Climbing Hydrangea and Pachysandra installation beneath the deck.
• Seasonal color and texture improvements.

As you go through the photos, you will see the retaining wall reconstruction, drainage improvements, planting installation, and final landscape restoration as the project came together.

The result is a property in Lincolnwood, IL featuring a rebuilt retaining wall, improved drainage, and refreshed landscaping designed to provide beauty, stability, and long-term performance for years to come.

 

 

 

 

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Tommy Pollina Landscape Company – serving Chicagoland since 1982.