Featured Project Backyard Grading & Paver Patio Renovation in Hinsdale, IL A steep, washed-out yard and rotting deck made this outdoor space unusable for an older couple hoping to host family gatherings. The Fox Landscape team executed a complete backyard renovation in Hinsdale to resolve severe grading issues, manage stormwater, and create an accessible area for their grandchildren. The initial yard was heavily sloped, suffering from severe soil erosion, and shaded by an overgrown canopy that prevented turf growth. The homeowners wanted a cohesive, single-level outdoor living space rather than a chopped-up hillside. We focused on correcting the grade and routing sheet water away from the foundation to ensure the new landscape would survive local weather conditions. Key Takeaways THE CHALLENGEA steep grade, poor drainage, and overgrown canopy caused soil erosion and left the yard unusable. THE INSTALLWe executed a full redesign featuring hard PVC drainage, a custom paver patio, and tailored plantings. THE RESULTThe property now features a functional, level backyard with proper water routing and durable hardscaping. Managing stormwater effectively requires steering it away from vulnerable structures before installing new aesthetic features. We designed a solution that corrects the immediate surface level while building a robust sub-surface drainage system, keeping the actual pipework hidden beneath the lawn. Project Summary Client Profile: Residential Homeowner Project Location: Hinsdale, IL Primary Objective: Correct the steep grade and create a functional outdoor gathering space with a complete landscape renovation. System Installed: Custom Beacon Hill Biscotti paver patio with comprehensive drainage routing. Key Outcome: A level, fully usable backyard completed within five days. Addressing Severe Erosion and Runoff The initial site evaluation revealed a heavily sloped yard with washed-away soil and an overgrown canopy blocking sunlight from the turf. A deteriorating wooden deck, once home to a family of raccoons, worsened the chopped-up layout. We also identified persistent sheet-water issues and a sump pump that constantly recycled water because of poor routing. Before any visual improvements, the underlying ground needed a total overhaul. If we set a new grade without managing the water coming off the house, the new soil and hardscaping would simply wash away. Grading, Drainage, and Patio Construction Our crew began by removing the existing deck and using a sod cutter to clear the turf. We scraped down the grade using a dingo and manually amended the soil with compost and perlite using a power rake. To manage the water, we buried hard PVC pipe for the sump pump and downspouts. For the seating areas, we laid crushed granite and built a patio using pre-sealed Beacon Hill Biscotti pavers, secured with flexible polymer sand. "In order to do such a huge transformation like this one, you have to have the project done in your mind before it's done. Because we had such a detailed plan already laid out, our team was able to complete this project in just 5 days." - (Jake, Fox Landscape) We expedited the village permit approval process by submitting a detailed plan upfront, which let us finish the heavy work efficiently. Afterward, we guided the homeowner through a hand-picked plant selection process, focusing on practical landscaping solutions that complement the new layout without attracting insects near the house. Before After Before After A Functional, Accessible Outdoor Space The completed project successfully merged the yard into a single, cohesive level stepped directly off the home. The buried PVC lines now collect and direct water away from the foundation, helping protect the new soil and sod from erosion. By selecting specific boxwoods for winter interest and avoiding heavy flowering plants near the house, the space remains easy to maintain. The pre-sealed pavers resist stains from spills, ensuring a durable area for family events for years to come. Ready to Upgrade Your Backyard? As part of our landscape design and renovation work in Hinsdale, we help homeowners solve difficult grading, drainage and outdoor-living challenges through one coordinated design-build plan. Need help with a similar project in Hinsdale? Request a consultation today. Fox Landscape 409 N Cass Ave, Westmont, IL 60559 Call 630-960-5211 or Schedule Online Frequently Asked Questions How long does a backyard landscape renovation take in Hinsdale? This complete backyard overhaul was completed in five days. We prioritize efficient planning and rapid permit approval to minimize disruption to your property. Why use polymer sand for paver patios? We use polymer sand instead of full-surface sealers because it remains flexible. This allows the paver joints to shift safely during Chicago's harsh freeze-thaw cycles without cracking. How do you handle poor soil during a grading project? We rototill the existing ground using a power rake and amend the dirt with compost and perlite. This creates a nutrient-rich, well-draining base for new sod and plantings.