The outer suburbs of Minneapolis, Minnesota, are home to a unique retreat. These 66 acres display a wide range of Minnesota ecosystems, from prairies to woodlands and wetlands. Among the prairie is a recently expanded house that includes a new landscape. Several families own this home, and each of them wanted a landscape that would blend in with the surrounding prairie. They worked with Biota Landscapes, based in Minneapolis, to design and install their vision. Their efforts led to a 2024 Gold Award of Excellence.
“We are honored to receive recognition from the NALP,” says Steve Modrow, founder of Biota. “It’s a high honor to receive national recognition from your industry peers.”
Multiple families were involved with this project, which affected the timeline and final plans.
“The design was a fluid process and took several years as the property evolved,” Modrow says. “The installation was also spread out over several years as home additions were planned and constructed. In total, the project took four years from the initial meeting.”
To make sure everyone was on the same page, Biota held on-site meetings that allowed every decision-maker to be present. This approach allowed clarity in making decisions while keeping the project on schedule.
The team also worked with the Department of Natural Resources to make sure no invasive species were being added to the property.
Each area of the landscape creates a relaxed feel for visitors, starting with the front entrance. As guests arrive, they’re greeted with freestanding fieldstone walls made of rocks from the property.
Next, a flagstone path leads them through meadow plantings with over 950 plants. The plant palette includes a mixture of straight species and cultivated native varieties. Some of these species include Rudbeckia, Echinacea, and various grasses. All the plants in this area have a low stature to preserve the front entrance view while maximizing blooms and texture throughout the year.
On the north side of the house, guests have access to a heated flagstone path that leads to the garage (a request from the eldest client). A spacious chicken coop and yard allow chickens to roam near the house. Wildlife can be a problem, so mesh fencing and white oak split rail were added around the coop for protection. Inside the coop, a 12-inch layer of gravel was added to create gravel gardens. This deep layer of gravel allows the chickens to scratch at the ground without disturbing the soil.
Before the install, the terrain was uneven near the chicken coop, so four levels of retaining walls were added to keep this area level and easy to access.
Below the chicken coop is a multi-level water feature with custom rolled steel and several waterfalls. The sound of moving water adds to the tranquil space, and the pond is home to various aquatic plants and seasonal planters. From here, guests can use the flat-topped boulder stepping stones to access the shed or mowed trails around the property.
Several patios can be found around the home’s perimeter, allowing small or large groups to enjoy views of the prairie and wetland.
Lighting was another focus of the property. To keep the rustic theme, Biota added gas lanterns along the walking areas by the house.
As the home expanded, the team was able to limit changes to the landscape plan.
“We were fortunate to be working closely with the clients, the architects, and the interior designer, so design and construction changes were minimal,” Modrow says. “Portions of the project were somewhat fluid as we worked with the clients during the design process while they were working with the architect on the various home additions.”
The finished design allowed each space to flow together and blend in with the surrounding prairie.
“The clients were using the home throughout construction, and the large property allowed them ample space to enjoy their retreat even during the construction years!” Modrow adds. “Once completed, the clients let us know that the project exceeded their expectations, and they were eager to settle in.”
Interested in participating in the Awards of Excellence? Enter your projects by July 31, 2025.
