Landscapes & Lifestyles

Articles & Information For Northeast Ohio Outdoor Living Landscapes & Lifestyles

Chidsey crew member pruning a dormant tree for Northeast Ohio landscape winterization.

From heavy snow belts to unpredictable freeze-thaw cycles, winter weather can take a heavy toll on your plants, shrubs, and outdoor investments if they aren't properly prepared.

Knowing what to prune, how deep to mulch, and the proper way to blow out irrigation lines makes all the difference between a thriving yard in April and costly repairs come spring.

Square outdoor gas fire pit with undercap night lighting on Northeast Ohio Unilock paving stone patio.

Discover how converting your wood-burning outdoor fireplace or fire pit to gas can instantly transform your Northeast Ohio backyard into a cozy, low-maintenance retreat.  Read our complete guide to learn the benefits of gas, how the conversion process works, estimated costs, and why even installing a new custom fire feature might be the best move for your home.

Stainless steel outdoor refrigerator and built-in sink  high-end appliances in covered outdoor kitchen in Northeast Ohio.

Ultimate Luxury Outdoor Kitchen Features for Northeast Ohio Homes

For homeowners across Cleveland, Akron, Canton, and surrounding Northeast Ohio communities, the outdoor living area has evolved far beyond a basic patio and standalone charcoal grill. Today’s premier properties feature fully equipped, high-end outdoor kitchens designed for seamless culinary experiences and year-round entertainment.

Northeast Ohio paver patio and pavilion with exterior landscape lighting in garden beds and tree uplighting.

When planning a backyard overhaul for your Northeast Ohio home, we often hear our clients ask if landscape lighting can be added later. While retrofitting landscape lighting is technically possible, incorporating low voltage exterior lighting into your initial landscape design and installation phase delivers massive structural and visual advantages, as well as significant financial savings.

Multi-tiered L-shape outdoor kitchen covered under pavilion in Northeast Ohio backyard on paver patio

When the weather warms up in Northeast Ohio, life naturally drifts outside. For homeowners looking to elevate their backyards, a premium outdoor culinary space is often at the top of the wish list. But before the landscape design process even begins, the two biggest questions we hear most often are: “How much does a custom outdoor kitchen cost in Northeast Ohio?” and “What kind of return on investment can an outdoor kitchen add to my home?”

When planning an outdoor living space in Northeast Ohio, the "poured concrete vs. pavers" debate is often the first hurdle. While a standard concrete slab often carries a lower initial price tag, savvy homeowners are increasingly looking at the long-term value of paver patios. 

Stone outdoor fireplace installed under pavilion with outdoor kitchen in Northeast Ohio backyard patio.

When designing your dream backyard, one of the first major decisions you will face is choosing the right fuel source for your outdoor fireplace. At Chidsey Landscape & Design, we believe your outdoor living space should perfectly reflect your lifestyle. Let’s dive into the core differences, costs, benefits, and local regulations surrounding wood-burning and gas outdoor fireplaces in Northeast Ohio.