At Groundhog Landscaping Inc. in Derry, NH, we’ve been crafting exceptional outdoor living spaces since 1994 — and we know that creating the perfect backyard oasis means blending patios, retaining walls, and outdoor kitchens into one seamless experience. Our team’s 27,000 sq ft facility, heavy equipment and excavation fleet, in-house aggregates processing, and master hardscape crews come together to deliver durable, beautiful, and functional outdoor spaces tailored just for New Hampshire’s unique climate.
We want to walk you through our tried-and-true process: from design and excavation, to base prep, building retaining walls, laying paver patios, grading and drainage, and finishing with a custom outdoor kitchen. Our goal is to help you understand what it takes to make your outdoor space both inviting and built to last through all four seasons here in the Granite State.
Planning and Design
First things first, planning is everything. We start by looking carefully at your yard’s layout and how you want to use your outdoor living space. Because New Hampshire’s weather varies so much, we factor that into every decision.
Here’s how our team approaches design:
Space Assessment: We measure and analyze your entire area to ensure every feature fits perfectly without crowding your yard.
Design Principles: Our experts balance function with beauty, making sure your space looks great while being practical for daily use.
Integration of Features: We plan everything with the end in mind, so patios, walls, and kitchens flow together naturally for a cohesive feel.
Because we’re local, we know what works best to keep your project safe and attractive year-round. Our team uses this insight to avoid common pitfalls and craft a space built just for you.
Our Step-by-Step Construction Process
Here’s how our team brings your outdoor living dreams to life:
Design Collaborations: We finalize your personalized plan, including every detail for patios, walls, and kitchens.
Excavation: Using our heavy equipment fleet, we prepare your yard by grading and shaping the land to form a strong foundation.
Base Preparation: We lay down proper aggregates and compact them to provide the perfect stable base, essential for longevity.
Retaining Walls: Our master hardscape crews build walls that not only prevent erosion and drainage problems but also add style and structure.
Paver Patios: Next, we install your patio using top-quality materials chosen to stand up to New Hampshire’s weather and look great.
Grading & Drainage: We ensure your entire outdoor area directs water away to prevent pooling and damage for years to come.
Outdoor Kitchen Installation: Finally, we add your outdoor kitchen with durable, weather-resistant appliances and surfaces designed for ease and enjoyment.
Choosing the Right Patio Materials for New Hampshire
We recommend materials that can take our cold winters and humid summers in stride. Concrete pavers are a hero here — they interlock tightly, resist shifting, and require minimal maintenance. Natural stone like flagstone or slate brings unique character and stands the test of time. We also love permeable pavers for environmentally friendly drainage solutions that keep your patio dry and stable.
Patio Styles for Different Lifestyles
No two outdoor spaces should be the same. Here are a few of our favorite approaches depending on your needs:
Family-Friendly: Large play-safe zones, built-in seating, and durable surfaces that hold up to activity.
Elegant Entertaining: Cozy corners, mood lighting, and flowing spaces perfect for guests.
Functional Outdoor Offices: Quiet areas with shade, comfortable seating, and power access to keep you connected.
Whichever route you choose, our team ensures your patio is as practical as it is inviting.
Retaining Walls That Work Hard and Look Great
Retaining walls are a crucial piece of your outdoor puzzle. They keep soil in place, help control water flow, and create opportunities for tiered gardens or extra seating. Our team builds walls engineered specifically for your soil type and slope to avoid common issues like erosion or failure.
On average, you can expect retaining walls to cost between $30 and $80 per square foot, depending on materials and complexity. We also advise checking local permit requirements—we’ll help guide you through that so your project stays on track and compliant.
Outdoor Kitchens Made for New Hampshire Living
Cooking outside is one of the best ways to enjoy your space, and we help you design outdoor kitchens that are as durable as they are delicious. From stainless steel grills to weather-resistant countertops and refrigerators that keep your drinks cold, we tailor each detail to your lifestyle.
We also focus on making your outdoor kitchen practical through thoughtful drainage, durable materials, and weather protection—like covered areas or patio heaters—so you can use your kitchen from early spring until late fall.
Landscaping Tips From Our Team
Great landscaping ties everything together. Here’s what we recommend:
Plant Selection: Native New Hampshire plants that thrive in our climate require less maintenance and look stunning year-round.
Lighting: We add path and accent lighting to enhance safety and create ambiance for those summer evenings.
Integrated Features: Combining new installations with your existing property so the whole yard feels cohesive and inviting.
Maintenance: Keeping Your Outdoor Space Looking Sharp
Long-lasting outdoor spaces are the result of regular care. We suggest routine inspections and upkeep such as cleaning patios, sealing surfaces to protect against weather damage, checking retaining walls for signs of shifting, and maintaining outdoor kitchen appliances for peak performance.
Why Work With Groundhog Landscaping?
We’re your trusted partner in making your backyard remarkable. Our decades of experience, extensive onsite capabilities, and commitment to quality mean you get an outdoor space designed and built to last. We know New Hampshire weather, and our expert crews ensure every project meets our high standards—because your satisfaction is our top priority.
Ready to get started? Let’s work together to transform your outdoor living space into a place you and your family will love for years to come.
Contact us at Groundhog Landscaping Inc. in Derry, NH, and let’s bring your vision to life.