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Rare Landscapes

Landscape Design in Shorewood, MN

Rare Landscapes designs luxury landscapes and outdoor living spaces for homeowners in Shorewood, MN. We bring pools, patios, outdoor kitchens, fire features, structures, planting, and lighting into one cohesive plan built around the home and the way the property is used.

Founder Will Archuleta works directly with homeowners throughout the design-and-build process, and 3D landscape planning helps establish the layout, scale, materials, and major outdoor features before construction begins. Shorewood's premier lakefront properties, with direct Lake Minnetonka access and established neighborhoods featuring mature trees and rolling topography, provide exceptional settings for outdoor living that celebrates Minnesota's natural beauty. As Lake Minnetonka area specialists, Rare Landscapes understands how to maximize the value of Shorewood properties, from historic estates along Christmas Lake to contemporary homes in Smithtown Bay neighborhoods.

Trust: 4.3 Google Rating · 24 reviews
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Why Choose Us

Why Shorewood Homeowners Choose Rare Landscapes

Lakefront properties and established neighborhoods throughout Shorewood require sophisticated design that enhances lake views while creating functional outdoor living spaces. Rare Landscapes develops comprehensive plans that integrate all outdoor elements into a single, refined environment.

01

Founder-led

Will Archuleta stays personally involved throughout planning and construction.

02

3D landscape design

Review layout, scale, materials, and major outdoor features before building.

03

Whole-property planning

Pools, patios, structures, lighting, planting, and circulation are coordinated together.

04

Design-first approach

Major decisions are worked through before construction starts.

05

High-end residential focus

Each project is shaped around the home, site conditions, and homeowner priorities.

What we do

Landscape Design & Outdoor Living Services in Shorewood

Rare Landscapes designs outdoor spaces for Shorewood homeowners who expect every area of their property to complement their home's architecture and lakefront lifestyle.

01

3D Landscape Design

Custom outdoor living plans that help you see the space, layout, and details before the project begins.
02

Landscape Design

Custom landscape design that blends hardscape, planting, and premium materials into one cohesive outdoor living plan.
03

Custom Swimming Pools

Custom pool layouts, poolside patios, landscaping, lighting, and full backyard pool environments.
04

Patio Design & Installation

Paver patios, natural stone patios, poolside patios, and outdoor entertaining areas.
05

Decks

Maintenance-free decks, cedar decks, and premium wood options such as Ipe.
06

Pergolas & Pavilions

Outdoor structures that add shade, comfort, architecture, and year-round usability.
07

Retaining Walls

Block, boulder, and outcropping walls designed to shape the property and support the space.
08

Outdoor Kitchens & Bars

Custom outdoor cooking, dining, and entertaining areas.
09

Outdoor Living Design

Complete outdoor living plans that connect patios, kitchens, fire features, lighting, and more.
10

Fireplaces & Fire Pits

Fire features that create warmth, gathering space, and a natural focal point.
11

Driveways

Paver and concrete driveway solutions designed to complement the home and landscape.
12

Landscape Lighting

Outdoor LED and landscape lighting that brings the space to life after sunset.
13

Saunas

Custom sauna integrations for homeowners who want a private wellness-focused outdoor retreat.
14

Screened-in Porches

Three-season and four-season porches, including motorized screen solutions.
Our work

Outdoor Living Projects in & Around Shorewood

Properties throughout Shorewood's distinctive neighborhoods – from Smithtown Bay estates to Christmas Lake homes – benefit from designs that maximize water views, manage challenging slopes, and create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living.

Reviews

What Homeowners Say About Rare Landscapes

Homeowners trust Rare Landscapes for design-led outdoor living projects that feel personal, refined, and built around the property. Rated 4.3 stars across 24 Google reviews — browse every 5-star review below, or open the full list on Google.

★★★★★
Google

We recently worked with Will at Rare Landscapes to redesign and replace our old paver patio, and the experience was outstanding from start to finish. Will created a beautiful patio design while also reusing our existing pavers, which helped us maintain our budget without sacrificing quality or appearance. What stood out most was how involved and communicative Will was throughout the entire project. Highly recommend Will and Rare Landscapes if you’re looking for creative design, professionalism, and great value.

Todd WhiteGoogle Review
★★★★★
Google

We had a dead lawn after we bought the place in winter. Bill came in with his crew, removed the lawn, took out the tree blocking the front of our wonderful home and installed class 5 to store our truck and boat. Fantastic work. On time, responsive, great quality work, great price, nice and professional crew.

Joey ReillyGoogle Review
★★★★★
Google

We had a great experience working with Bill and his team. Very professional work and the results were outstanding. Added a top level rock wall, modified existing steps to make safer and added more interesting curve and additional level, and replaced old stone walk way with nicely color contrasting pavers.

william gabbyGoogle Review
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Reviews

What Homeowners Say About Rare Landscapes

Homeowners choose Rare Landscapes for thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces that reflect their lifestyle, enhance their property, and deliver lasting value. With a 4.3-star rating from 24 Google reviews — read our 5-star testimonials below, or view the complete collection on Google.

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Planning a Larger Landscape Project in Shorewood?

Whether you're working with a lakefront estate or an established neighborhood property, your outdoor space deserves a unified vision. Rare Landscapes can coordinate pools, patios, pavilions, kitchens, walkways, lighting, and landscaping into a single comprehensive design.

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Who we design for

Landscape Design for Shorewood Homes & Properties

01

Lakefront Property Owners

With many properties offering direct Lake Minnetonka access and spectacular water views, Shorewood lakefront homes require designs that celebrate the waterfront setting while providing privacy and functionality. Rare Landscapes creates outdoor spaces that maximize lake views while managing slopes and shoreline regulations effectively.

02

Established Neighborhood Residents

From historic homes near Excelsior Boulevard to newer developments throughout the community, Shorewood's diverse neighborhoods demand outdoor designs that respect existing character while introducing modern luxury. Our designs enhance your property value while maintaining neighborhood aesthetics.

03

Christmas Lake Properties

Homes surrounding Christmas Lake benefit from designs that frame pristine water views, create private outdoor retreats, and manage the unique topography of lakeside lots. Strategic placement of patios, pools, and structures maximizes both views and usability.

04

Homeowners Renovating Existing Landscapes

Many Shorewood properties feature mature landscapes ready for transformation. A comprehensive design approach ensures new pools, patios, and outdoor living features integrate seamlessly with preserved elements like mature trees and established gardens.

Local design

What We Consider When Designing Landscapes in Shorewood

01

Lake Views & Waterfront Access

Shorewood's extensive Lake Minnetonka shoreline demands strategic design to frame water views from multiple vantage points. Proper placement of patios, pools, and outdoor structures ensures you enjoy lake views while maintaining privacy from neighboring properties and lake traffic.

02

Slope Management & Terracing

The dramatic elevation changes common to Shorewood lakefront lots require professional grading and retaining wall systems. Thoughtful terracing creates usable outdoor spaces while managing drainage and preventing erosion on challenging slopes.

03

Mature Trees & Shade Patterns

With neighborhoods established over decades, many Shorewood properties feature significant tree canopy that shapes outdoor living possibilities. Design works around valuable mature trees, manages shade patterns effectively, and selects appropriate materials for varying light conditions.

04

Year-Round Lake Living

Shorewood homeowners value outdoor spaces that extend the lake lifestyle beyond summer. Covered structures, outdoor fireplaces, heated patios, and strategic lighting create comfortable gathering spaces for three-season enjoyment of your waterfront property.

About Shorewood

Living in Shorewood, Minnesota

Shorewood is an established Lake Minnetonka community of approximately 7,600 residents, offering some of the area's most desirable waterfront properties. The city features 6 miles of Lake Minnetonka shoreline across multiple bays, including Smithtown Bay, Enchanted Island, and Christmas Lake, providing residents with exceptional water access and views.

The community maintains excellent parks and trails, including Freeman Park with its swimming beach and the regional Dakota Rail Trail connecting to neighboring communities. Shorewood's prime location offers quick access to downtown Excelsior's shops and restaurants while maintaining a peaceful residential character that residents have valued for generations.

Shorewood, Minnesota
Where we work

Serving Shorewood & the Lake Minnetonka Area

Rare Landscapes serves Shorewood and surrounding communities including Mound, Minnetrista, Orono, Wayzata, Excelsior, Medina, Long Lake, Minnetonka Beach, Tonka Bay, Deephaven, Greenwood, Minnetonka, Plymouth, and Chanhassen.

MoundMinnetristaOronoWayzataExcelsiorMedinaLong LakeMinnetonka BeachTonka BayShorewoodDeephavenGreenwoodMinnetonkaPlymouthChanhassen
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3D Landscape Design

Plan Your Shorewood Property in 3D

Before investing in your outdoor living transformation, see exactly how your pool, patio, outdoor kitchen, and landscape elements will look and function together. Rare Landscapes uses 3D design technology to help Shorewood homeowners visualize their complete outdoor environment, ensuring every element works in harmony with your lakefront property and home's architecture.

3D landscape design rendering by Rare Landscapes
Explore Our 3D Design Process
Questions

Landscape Design in Shorewood, MN FAQs

Yes. We're familiar with Shorewood's shoreline regulations and work with the city to secure necessary permits for lakefront improvements, retaining walls, and structures. Our experience ensures your project meets all requirements while maximizing your property's potential.
We begin with careful site analysis to identify valuable trees and challenging grades. Our 3D design process shows exactly how we'll work around preservation areas while creating level spaces for pools, patios, and outdoor living through strategic grading and retaining walls.
Most Shorewood homeowners invest between 15-20% of their property value in comprehensive outdoor living improvements. Lakefront properties often see higher investments due to specialized requirements for slopes, views, and waterfront access features.
Absolutely. Whether your home is traditional, contemporary, or transitional, we select materials, design elements, and layouts that complement your home's style. Our 3D design process ensures visual harmony before construction begins.
We implement comprehensive erosion control measures including silt fencing, proper staging areas, and careful material management. Our crews understand the importance of protecting Lake Minnetonka and follow best practices for lakefront construction.
Get in touch

Start Your Landscape Design Project in Shorewood

Contact Rare Landscapes to transform your Shorewood property with comprehensive outdoor living design. Work directly with Will Archuleta from initial concept through construction to create outdoor spaces that enhance your lifestyle and property value.

Location: Mound, Minnesota
Schedule ConsultationCall 952-258-3553

Start Planning in Shorewood

Replies personally within 1 business day