Homeowners dealing with sloped, hillside properties often struggle to make their property work for outdoor entertaining.  Their home may be situated on a hill to take advantage of views but the topography of the land makes it challenging to create level areas for decks, patios and pathways – that’s when installing concrete hardscapes can offer a great solution.

Decorative concrete hardscapes provide the “bones” or structure of hillside landscaping projects.  Concrete stairs, retaining walls and drainage systems effectively improve access to property and give people the outdoor living spaces they desire – as shown in this feature project.

Concrete retaining wall, Bellingham WA resized 600

Image: stamped concrete stairs, recessed lighting and aggregate retaining walls

Custom Concrete Contracting worked on this hillside project that was located in the Lake Whatcom community near Bellingham, WA.  The homeowners were looking to create lush garden areas, improve access around their property and expand living spaces.  They chose concrete over other options due to its visual appeal and durability.

The first steps in the process included establishing a design, sculpting the land with excavation and dirt work, installing a drainage system, and adding power for landscape lighting. Then it was time for Custom Concrete Contracting to set the forms, manage the pour (delivered by overhead pumper trucks), and complete detailed finish work. Our experienced crews worked around an existing deck and managed complicated elevation changes during this project.

Concrete retaining walls for hillside properties, Whatcom County resized 600

Image: setting forms for aggregate retaining walls

Exposed aggregate was used for vertical surfaces but the homeowner chose a decorative stamped concrete pattern for their patio and stairs. The heavy stone texture finish shown below is smoother than aggregate; it’s soft to the touch and great for bare feet!

Decorative stamped concrete, hillside drainage

Image: heavy stone texture finished concrete and landscape drainage

The end result is a beautifully landscaped hillside garden, expanded entertainment areas, safe access paths, and an elevated patio that takes advantage of lake views.

Concrete retaining walls for hillside homes, stamped concrete patio, Bellingham WA

Image:  exposed aggregate retaining wall with Italian slate stamped concrete patio and heavy stone texture stamped stairs

Custom Concrete Contracting was proud to work alongside the following licensed professionals on this project:  excavation and drainage work by Olsson Construction; concrete supplied by Cowden Ready Mix and pumped by Western Concrete Pumping.