Sticks & Stones
Lakeville, MN
Completed 2015
This thoughtfully designed outdoor retreat blends architectural structure with natural elements to create a timeless and inviting courtyard experience. A custom wood pergola anchors the space, providing filtered light and seasonal shade, while layered stonework, integrated water features, and lush planting beds add texture and movement throughout. Designed for multi-season enjoyment, the space transitions effortlessly from vibrant summer gatherings to cozy fall evenings around the fire. Soft lighting and carefully planned zones for lounging, dining, and entertaining extend the home outdoors, creating a refined yet relaxed environment that feels welcoming throughout Minnesota’s changing seasons.
Designed by Heather Sweeney
Property Serviced by Mom’s Fine Gardening
Behind the Design
Design Notes
The Idea
Architectural structure meeting natural elements: a custom wood pergola anchoring a courtyard of layered stonework, integrated water features, and lush planting beds.
After
The space moves with the calendar — vibrant summer gatherings, cozy fall evenings around the fire — with soft lighting and planned zones for lounging, dining, and entertaining extending the home outdoors.
The Brief
- —A timeless courtyard for entertaining
- —Multi-season use, summer through fall
- —Defined zones for lounging, dining, and gathering
Materials & Craft
- Custom wood pergola
- Layered natural stonework
- Integrated water features
01
The pergola anchor
A custom wood pergola centers the courtyard, filtering light and throwing seasonal shade.
02
Texture in layers
Layered stonework, water features, and planting beds keep the space moving — texture and sound doing the decorating.
03
Zones that flow
Lounging, dining, and entertaining each get a planned zone, connected so the courtyard reads as one room.
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