Building Better Outdoor Spaces: A Landscape Contractor’s Perspective on Material Choices
Great outdoor spaces don’t just happen; they’re built with careful planning, the right materials, and a team of people committed to doing the job well. For McKenzie Lawler of Dakota OutdoorScapes, success comes from balancing practical solutions with the aesthetic goals of each project.
As a full-service landscape installation company based in North Dakota, Dakota OutdoorScapes takes on everything from grading and drainage to patios, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, and more. We spoke with McKenzie about the role of hardscape elements in her projects, how she chooses materials, and the importance of reliable partnerships in helping her deliver for her clients.
Approach to Landscape Design
For McKenzie, landscaping is about creating outdoor spaces that work for how people live. “Our projects are all different. Sometimes it’s fixing a drainage issue, other times it’s creating a whole backyard space with patios, water features, and lighting,” she shared. “We try to make it easy for clients to get everything they need from one place.”
Hardscape elements like stone play a regular role in those projects, depending on the design and site conditions. “We look at what fits the space and what’s going to hold up well for the homeowner,” she said. Price point and experience with products are also key factors in the decision-making process.
Choosing the Right Materials
When it comes to material choices, McKenzie focuses on what’s going to work best for the project at hand. Natural stone is one of many tools in her toolbox. “It’s definitely durable, and we use it when it makes sense for the space,” she explained. “It depends on the install.”
Her practical approach keeps the focus on the client’s needs, site conditions, and long-term functionality.
The Role of Reliable Partnerships
With multiple moving parts on any given project, McKenzie emphasized how important it is to have suppliers she can count on. That’s where her relationship with Coldspring stands out. “Wade’s been great to work with. It’s convenient to get a variety of materials from one place, and if we ever need something, he’s responsive and gets it handled.”
From polymeric sand to pavers, retaining wall systems, and outdoor features like countertops and firepits, having one point of contact saves time and keeps projects on track. “Even if something isn’t available, they’re good about tracking it down or helping us find a solution.”
Advice for Others in the Industry
For other contractors or even homeowners considering landscape projects, McKenzie’s advice is simple: think through the project from start to finish and lean on suppliers who can help fill in the gaps. “Having good communication with suppliers makes it easier for everyone. And when you work with people who are responsive, it helps you deliver for your customers.”
Final Thought
Success in landscaping isn’t just about what goes into the ground; it’s about the people behind the work. With the right materials, planning, and partnerships, outdoor spaces can be built to look great and perform well for years to come.
Looking for the right materials for your next landscape project? Explore Coldspring’s full range of natural stone and hardscape solutions, and experience the difference working with a responsive, knowledgeable partner. Connect with us today to start your next project with confidence.