At Rockaway, every landscape design begins with one simple idea: no two properties—or clients—are alike. From Atlantic Beach to St. Augustine, each space offers its own challenges, character, and potential. Our job is to reveal that potential through creative, cohesive design that blends functionality, sustainability, and beauty. The recent transformation at the Young Residence in Atlantic Beach is a perfect example of how diverse design elements come together to create a unified outdoor living experience.
A True Team Transformation
This project started as a complete overhaul. The existing landscape was overgrown and uneven, with limited functionality and no clear flow between spaces. Working closely with the homeowner, our team developed a design that balanced structure, softness, and low-maintenance plant life—all while meeting the new coastal building codes required less than two blocks from the ocean. The result? A dynamic outdoor environment built entirely in-house by Rockaway’s carpentry, irrigation, and landscaping divisions—each contributing their own craftsmanship and expertise.
Craftsmanship That Anchors the Space
The project’s foundation—literally and visually—is the custom-built deck designed and constructed by Rockaway’s carpentry team. With the new Atlantic Beach code calling for reinforced structural support due to sandy soils and coastal exposure, our crew engineered a strong, beautiful outdoor platform that anchors the entire backyard. Once the deck was complete, our carpenters continued crafting custom wood features in the shop, including decorative accessories and a future pergola designed to complement the home’s coastal architecture.
Groundwork and Flow: Turf, Pathways, and Grading
After demolition and grading, our landscape team focused on reshaping the ground plane. A solid artificial turf basewas built using layers of 57 and 89 stone for drainage and stability, bordered by clean bend-a-board and 2×4 framing for precision. To create contrast and flow, a decomposed granite pathway was added—its soft, glistening texture provides a natural look that connects the deck to the surrounding gardens. Tamped and compacted multiple times, the pathway blends the feel of a coastal trail with the durability needed for everyday use.
Color, Texture, and Movement: The Plant Palette
One of the hallmarks of Rockaway’s landscape design philosophy is diversity in plant selection. Each project is an opportunity to layer texture, color, and form in a way that feels both intentional and natural. For this residence, the client wanted something bright, varied, and easy to maintain. The design features a mix of trees, shrubs, and accent plants that provide year-round appeal:
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Trees: Magnolia and red maple for structure, shade, and seasonal interest
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Shrubs: Sunshine ligustrum, clusia, and oleander for contrast and color
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Accent Plants: Muhly grass, foxtail ferns, chocolate loropetalum, and variegated pittosporum for movement, texture, and pops of hue
Together, they form a landscape that evolves through the seasons—lush, layered, and distinctly Floridian.
Hidden Technology for Lasting Health
Beneath the mulch lies a drip irrigation system that ensures every plant receives consistent moisture, even when the homeowners are away. Each line was precisely squared and tested for efficiency, eliminating kinks or pressure loss. This low-profile technology is one of the key reasons Rockaway landscapes perform beautifully in Florida’s demanding climate—it supports healthy growth while conserving water.
Unified Design, Built In-House
What truly sets Rockaway apart is the ability to bring every piece of a project together under one roof. Carpentry, irrigation, and landscaping are not separate contractors—they’re integrated teams working toward one vision. This unity not only streamlines communication and scheduling but also ensures that design intent carries through from concept to completion. At the Young Residence, the entire transformation—from tear-out to planting—was completed in under two weeks.
A Reflection of Rockaway’s Design Diversity
From decks and pergolas to turf, pathways, and plantings, this project embodies Rockaway’s conviction that diversity in design yields stronger, more personalized landscapes. Every property we touch becomes a reflection of its owners—whether it’s coastal modern, tropical resort-style, or classic Southern charm. Our goal is always the same: to build outdoor spaces that feel as natural as they are intentional, and as beautiful as they are functional.
Ready for Your Own Transformation?
Whether you’re envisioning a complete redesign, a new pergola, or simply looking to refresh your plant palette, Rockaway’s in-house design and build teams can bring your ideas to life.
📞 Contact us today to start your next project—and discover how diverse design elements can come together to create your perfect outdoor space.
