Forest Edge Home

Old Mission, Michigan

Solutions Provided

Ecological Landscaping Icon - Inhabitect
  • Ecological Landscaping & Habitat Creation – Native plant “guilds” were thoughtfully selected to attract diverse bird, mammal, and insect species, creating a thriving habitat that prioritizes biodiversity.
  • Land-Use Planning – Strategic site design maximized the use of natural features, ensuring the landscape remained functional, sustainable, and visually appealing.
site design icon
  • Landscape Design – The design features functional and aesthetic elements, including a striking boulder retaining wall and a custom flagstone firepit.

Project Description

Tucked away on Old Mission Peninsula, this project showcases Inhabitect’s design-build expertise, seamlessly integrating ecological landscaping with functional outdoor living spaces. Designed to enhance biodiversity, the landscape incorporates diverse plant “guilds” strategically selected to attract specific bird, mammal, and insect species. By prioritizing native plants and thoughtful placement, our design maximizes the “edge effect”—a transitional zone where different plant communities meet—fostering greater biodiversity and ecological richness.

In addition to its ecological and habitat features, the project boasts a striking boulder retaining wall that blends naturally into the topography, along with a custom flagstone firepit that serves as a central gathering space for the homeowners. Sustainability was a key focus, with a customized irrigation system that relies primarily on on-demand drip irrigation. This efficient system minimizes water waste by delivering precise hydration to plants, promoting long-term growth while conserving resources.

This project exemplifies Inhabitect’s commitment and experience with designing and building ecologically mindful landscapes that balance artistry with environmental science. The result is a thriving, low-maintenance ecosystem that offers lasting beauty and sustainability. While this design was tailored for a private residence, its principles are adaptable to projects of all scales in both public and private sectors, demonstrating that sustainable landscapes can be both functional and impactful.