why i love designing outdoor spaces with personality

i get such a kick out of designing outdoor living spaces—especially when clients in places like naperville, plainfield, batavia, geneva, wheaton, downers grove, and lisle come to me with a clear sense of what they want. when someone has a strong opinion about how they want their yard to look or feel, it actually makes the process more exciting for me. i love when people bring ideas to the table, because it gives me the perfect starting point to create something meaningful and truly custom.

some people are all about clean lines, symmetry, and a "neat and tidy" vibe that feels timeless and intentional. others are totally into the prairie garden look—sweeping grasses, lots of movement, and native plants that support pollinators and wildlife. some prefer curvy, organic lines that create a sense of flow and softness, while others want sharp, modern edges that make a bold statement. every now and then i’ll meet someone who wants nothing but green and white for that classic, calming palette, and right after that, i’ll have a client dreaming of color explosions from spring through fall.

and that’s the beauty of what i do—there’s no formula. i never recycle designs because no two families, homes, or yards are the same. what works in a downers grove backyard won’t make sense in a batavia front yard. a lisle family with little kids might need open lawn space and shade trees, while someone in geneva with grown kids may be ready for a peaceful, plant-filled sanctuary.

designing spaces that match people’s personalities and lifestyles is what keeps me obsessed with this work. i don’t just want your yard to look good—I want it to feel like you. whether it’s a cozy patio for morning coffee, an outdoor kitchen for summer cookouts, or a pollinator garden that brings joy to your day, it’s all about creating something that fits you perfectly. rooted outdoor living is all about making sure your outdoor space feels like home—because that’s when the magic happens.