Backyards are the heart of unforgettable moments—our place to laugh, relax, and unwind. From sizzling barbecues and flourishing vegetable gardens to refreshing dips in the pool, your backyard is more than just a space—it’s your personal sanctuary to connect and escape.
For years, Matthew Rozell, President of Evergreen Landscape & Design, has been helping residents turn their backyards into stunning sanctuaries.
"The landscape industry has expanded and evolved so much over the past few decades that the options available to homeowners are endless," Rozell explained. "From natural stone to high quality man-made products, outdoor living spaces, and a full assortment of kitchen/accessory options, clients have a wide array of options to make any concept or dream a reality.”
As with fashion, trends can be found here too. “People are now looking at their yards as an extension of their house. We find ourselves designing a great deal of outdoor entertaining spaces focused on things such as kitchenettes and fire features, sitting areas that allow for multi-seasonal use, covered pergolas, and pavilions. There are various amenities that provide infinite options for a client's ‘staycation’ or personal enjoyment.”
Rozell knows the changing landscape of yards inside and out. After all, he’s contributed to countless projects throughout his career, ranging from large commercial endeavors to hundreds of residential makeovers across northern New Jersey. About 17 years ago, he took on a new venture by launching his own business. Since then, his company has grown and new employees have joined the team while tackling exciting projects and challenges along the way.
“Over the years we have taken advantage of the continued opportunities for growth and expansion and consistently re-invest in the company," said Rozell. “We’ve combined resources and created the design-build firm operating today. We currently manage over 20 full-time employees along with a fully staffed office of landscape architects and design professionals.”
Homeowners should dream big, but their backyard visions need to also stay realistic. According to Rozell, key factors to consider include yard size, township requirements, topography, access to the area, and potential obstacles such as wells and seepage pits.
It is Rozell’s knowledge of all these potential obstacles that helps guide customers through the planning process. "There are far more township and county requirements these days than there were ever previously. Each township is different, and no two properties are the same," Rozell explained. "It's about educating clients on restrictions or problems that may arise within a certain design and also the subsequent costs related. We work through the budgeting/design process in a way that satisfies all the needs/wants of the clients, but also stays within the parameters set for us by the governing body of the state.”
While yard design is deeply about personal preference, the surrounding environment plays a significant role in shaping its style—especially since each area of New Jersey features distinct natural elements.
“More semi-rural areas like Kinnelon and Sparta have much more natural stones and lots of greenery surrounded by bluestone and more earth tone features. These are similar in the heavily lake-based communities such as Denville and Montville,” Rozell added.
“Older towns with older homes are being updated and renovated. Usually, clients will somewhat match their yards and outdoor style to that of the home. A house in Denville that is 35 years old and under renovation will likely starkly contrast with a house in Englewood Cliffs that is currently being built. The upper Bergen County areas are becoming known for super modern homes…with that comes the use of brighter tones, often porcelain or natural stone. A center hall colonial in Denville, [on the other hand], may already have existing stonework/brick on the facade that we would be trying to match or blend. Denville is more likely to have natural stone boulders, elevation changes, and the use of earth tones. These properties are often surrounded by woods."
These varied projects keep the job exciting for Rozell, allowing him to transform homeowners' backyard dreams into breathtaking realities.
The possibilities for turning your yard into a backyard oasis are endless, and with the help of Matthew Rozell and the Evergreen Landscaping team, you too can bring your vision to life. Don't wait to transform your backyard into the sanctuary you've always dreamed of—let the experts help you create a space filled with joy, relaxation, and lasting memories for years to come.
"The landscape industry has evolved so much over the past few decades—the options available to homeowners are endless."