Cutting and building a steep slope into a series of level terraces with walls, steps and drainage.
Terracing is the oldest way to farm and garden on a slope, and it works just as well in a modern yard. Each terrace is a level shelf held by a short wall, and together they turn a steep, wasted hillside into usable space. Owners in Nashville with hilly lots use terraces for gardens, seating, play areas and orchards.
We begin with a Free Estimate and survey of the slope, then lay out terraces that fit the grade and your uses. We build lower walls first, backfill and compact each shelf, add drains, steps and planting beds and shape each terrace so water runs gently off. We pay attention to how upper walls load lower ones and coordinate engineering for taller systems. We can also add paths, lighting and irrigation. Terraces work best when they fit the way people live on them. We talk about where you want a garden bed, where you want a bench and where the kids will play, then size each shelf for its purpose. We also look at sun, wind and views so each terrace feels pleasant. Paths, steps and lighting make the whole system easy to walk, and planting between the walls softens the edges so the terraces look like they have always belonged on the hill.
Terrace spacing and wall heights follow the natural grade.
Each terrace is flat enough to use and drained so it does not pool.
Stairs and paths tie terraces together.
Roots hold soil and make terraces beautiful.
Drag the handle to compare.
BeforeAfterGrade measured.
Shelves and walls planned.
Built and backfilled.
Added in sequence.
Paths and water control.
Terraces completed.
Every topic has its own page with what to expect and how we approach it.
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You tell us what is wrong or what you want to build, and we set a visit that fits your day.
We walk the site, measure heights and lengths, look at soil and water paths and talk through what you want the space to do.
You receive a plain written scope with materials, drainage, engineering needs and the schedule before work begins.
We locate utilities, stake the wall line, excavate and build a compacted base that will carry the wall.
We build the wall course by course, add reinforcement as designed, install drains and place and compact clean backfill.
We add caps, steps and planting, clean up, restore the site and walk through the finished wall with you.
It depends on the slope and total height. We lay it out after surveying.
Yes. They make fine garden shelves.
It greatly reduces it when combined with drainage and planting.
Wide enough for the intended use, from planting beds to patios.
Taller or heavily loaded systems often do.
Tiered and Terraced Retaining WallsTwo or more shorter walls stepped up a slope, with planting shelves, paths and stairs between them.Explore 
Hillside and Slope Retaining WallsWalls and terraces for steep lots that stabilize the slope, control erosion and open up usable flat land.Explore 
Outdoor Steps and StairsStone, block, brick and concrete stairs that connect levels and make slopes safe and easy to use.Explore 
Planting and Landscaping Above WallsPlant selection, soil and mulch that soften wall faces and tops while protecting drainage and the wall itself.Explore Tell us about your project and we will call you back to set up a visit.
Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.
