As homeowners increasingly look to extend their living spaces beyond four walls, the demand for thoughtful, elevated landscape design continues to grow. At NRD Landscape + Design Build, that demand is met with a refined, client-centered approach that blends functionality, beauty, and long-term value. Led by owner Eric Robertson, the company has built a reputation for creating outdoor environments that feel both timeless and deeply personal.
“What we are seeing in today’s designs are features that are timeless, clean and not too busy,” Robertson explains. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, NRD focuses on materials and layouts that endure. “Patio surfaces such as natural stone in simple patterns can provide a sophisticated, durable and timeless look,” he says. “Another great thing about stone is that it can look even better as it ages.”
This emphasis on longevity is paired with intentional design. Today’s outdoor spaces are no longer afterthoughts—they are extensions of the home, often serving multiple purposes. “Also popular in design are outdoor rooms or spaces that are multi-purpose and designed with purpose and clear intent,” Robertson notes. Whether it’s a place for entertaining, relaxing, or gathering with family, each space is crafted with the homeowner’s lifestyle in mind.
What truly sets NRD apart, however, is its commitment to individuality. “I feel one of the strong suits at NRD Landscape Design Build is how our designers approach each project as an opportunity to express the individual personality of the client, rather than a similar, repetitive look from project to project,” Robertson says. By carefully considering site conditions and the architectural style of the home, the team ensures every design feels cohesive and unique. “Taking the site conditions and architectural style of the home into consideration when developing a plan and making it unique to the client’s needs” is central to their philosophy.
Even smaller spaces are treated with the same level of care and creativity. According to Robertson, scale and perspective are key. “There are many great choices of smaller ornamental trees that grow in a narrow upright form providing a strong vertical interest without a large footprint,” he explains. Compact plant varieties also help maintain balance without overwhelming the space. Thoughtful accents can elevate even the most modest footprint. “A unique boulder or stone that is drilled and made into a simple water feature over an in-grade basin can be a beautiful way to bring sound, movement and calm into a small intimate space as well.”
Creating a sense of privacy—especially in urban or suburban settings—is another common priority for homeowners. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all solution, NRD approaches each project with a tailored strategy. “If you envision a backyard sanctuary, strong garden design comes into play with intentional layering and mixed use of foliage shapes, color and evergreen elements,” Robertson says. The goal is to strike a balance: “Designing so that it reads intentional and calm, rather than clutter and chaos.”
Privacy itself can take many forms, depending on the property and the homeowner’s needs. “One thing to consider when looking for privacy, does your space need privacy year-round or just during a portion of the season?” Robertson advises. Evaluating sight lines, viewing angles, and overall space allows the team to create solutions that feel natural and effective.
Beyond aesthetics, landscape design must also navigate practical considerations—particularly local regulations. “There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer here because it can vary from city to city,” Robertson explains. Many municipalities limit the amount of impervious surface allowed on a property, which includes features like patios, driveways, and the home itself. “Impervious areas, simply put, are those that rainwater cannot naturally pass through and re-enter the ground,” he says.
To ensure compliance, NRD takes a proactive approach. “After consulting with clients about their project goals, we start by contacting the municipality in question and learn what requirements are for that specific site.” Solutions like permeable paving can help mitigate restrictions, though even those vary in acceptance depending on the city.
From the first conversation to the final installation, NRD’s process is designed to be clear, collaborative, and client-focused. “When a client reaches out, we have a conversation about what it is they are looking for to ensure we’re the right fit,” Robertson explains. This is followed by an in-person consultation, where a designer evaluates the property and discusses goals in detail. The team then develops a comprehensive plan, complete with design concepts and budgeting guidance.
At the heart of it all is a simple but powerful principle: listening. “We feel the most important part of this process is listening to the client—what they are looking to achieve, what vision they may have, and what existing problems we can help solve,” Robertson says.
As the landscaping season approaches, NRD Landscape + Design Build stands ready to help homeowners reimagine their outdoor spaces—not just as yards, but as meaningful, lasting extensions of home.
nrdlandscape.com or (952) 212-2665