Lakefront Landscaping on Lake Travis
A yard that runs down to Lake Travis has to deal with steep banks, rocky soil, and a water line that moves. 512 Luxury Landscape Design plans and builds lakefront landscapes for homes in Lakeway, Spicewood, and the other communities around the lake. We hold slopes with stone, control erosion, plant for wet and dry years, and plan shoreline work around LCRA rules. The owner stays involved on every job, and estimates are free.
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Why Lakefront Lots Need a Different Plan
Lake Travis is a reservoir on the Colorado River. It formed when Mansfield Dam was finished in 1942. At full pool it sits 681 feet above sea level and stretches about 65 miles upriver. It is mainly a flood-control lake, so its level moves a lot. Over its history, the gap between its lowest and highest levels is close to 100 feet. That changes how you landscape a lot on the water. The bank is steep limestone. The lower yard can sit dry for years, then go under water after a big storm. Rules from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) apply once you work at or below the shore. We have landscaped across Austin and the Hill Country since 2018. On a lake lot we start at the water and work up. We hold the bank, route the runoff, and pick plants that can take both drought and flooding. Then we build the patios, paths, and beds that let you use the view.
Our Customer Reviews
- Michael Williams Google review ·Read on Google: review by Michael Williams (opens in a new tab)
It was great working with Ean to remove our grass and replace with a xeriscape design. He took my vision and some specific plant selections and came up with a design that accomplished exactly what I wanted. I would recommend him and his team for your landscape needs!
- John Bitner Google review ·Read on Google: review by John Bitner (opens in a new tab)
Ean and his crew were great to work with. Newly poured driveway included a beautiful glued rock drain which not only protects but adds a touch of color to the concrete. Would highly recommend 512 Luxury Landscape Design.
- Kim San Miguel Google review ·Read on Google: review by Kim San Miguel (opens in a new tab)
Ian was so easy to work with and really communicative. We had our backyard redone with sod and he found the grass that would work best for our yard and gave us in depth instructions on how to make sure it roots and grows. His team was efficient and they did a fantastic job. We’re so excited to see how it does and would absolutely recommend for anyone looking for landscape design.
- I SanMiguel Google review ·Read on Google: review by I SanMiguel (opens in a new tab)
Ean and his crew were quick, efficient, respectful, and easy to deal with. He gave a fair price for a sod install. He showed up on time, did the work as agreed upfront, and left us with the nice lawn to enjoy. Thanks Ean and crew!
- Kelly Roles Google review ·Read on Google: review by Kelly Roles (opens in a new tab)
512 Luxury landscaping is a solid choice in your landscaping and construction needs! Ean and his crew do impeccable work, kind, timely, and is the best contractor I’ve ever worked with! What sets Ean apart is that he aims to educate the client. I’ve worked with many contractors that just do-as-told and then show up with their crew and you’re in shock, not knowing the process and procedures. Construction and landscaping is much more meticulous, strategic and demands strong communication than the novice knows- until they experience it for the first time. Ean is professional, communicative, has creativity and a best-bang-for-your-buck-attitude. There were times when I needed someone to step in a take control and he knew exactly when to do this- whilst simultaneously balancing knowing that as the customers, we need full transparency of what needs to happen and what to expect. Ean was additionally helpful calling out prior contractors incorrect work. So much to the point where I was empowered with the knowledge he gave me to call-out said contractors to come back and do the job the right way. You can’t go wrong with 512 luxury landscaping. I’ve referred many friends to them and hope this review is helpful to you making your decision on hiring a contractor.
- Virginia Dalbeck Google review ·Read on Google: review by Virginia Dalbeck (opens in a new tab)
I really enjoyed working with Luxery Landscape Design. Super professional, always on time and they get the job done. Also, all things they planted lasted many seasons and don’t die off which was nice… I definitely recommend.
- Amelia Johnson Google review ·Read on Google: review by Amelia Johnson (opens in a new tab)
I couldn’t be happier with the work 512 Luxury Landscape Design did on my backyard. They designed a stunning outdoor living area complete with a fire pit, custom stonework, and gorgeous plant selections. The attention to detail was impeccable, and the team worked efficiently to bring my vision to life. Now, my family and I spend more time outside than ever before, and entertaining guests has never been more enjoyable. Highly recommend their services for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor space!
- Pablo Salazar Google review ·Read on Google: review by Pablo Salazar (opens in a new tab)
Ean and his crew did a great job in our backyard renovation. Very friendly, would recommend!
- Stafford Ullrich Google review ·Read on Google: review by Stafford Ullrich (opens in a new tab)
We had a fence and some landscaping done and it came out amazing. The work was completed quickly and they did a great job.
- Dana Gutierrez Google review ·Read on Google: review by Dana Gutierrez (opens in a new tab)
Dream yard realized! These landscape architects are incredible artists; they turned my area into an opulent haven.
- Jack Coffey Google review ·Read on Google: review by Jack Coffey (opens in a new tab)
Several friends referred me to 512 Luxury Landscape Design for my latest home improvement project and we're glad they did. They installed a concrete sidewalk, outdoor wall sconce, and river rock landscape treatment. We think landscaping with rock is great because it cuts down on maintenance of having to add mulch seasonally. Fair pricing, great communication, and creative design ideas is why it was a pleasure working with Ian and his entire team. We highly recommend Luxury Landscape Design the next time you want to elevate your outdoor space.
- Braxton Peck Google review ·Read on Google: review by Braxton Peck (opens in a new tab)
Have used Ean and his crew for a handful of jobs. Quality work and material , great communication, and professional. Would highly suggest for any landscaping project.
- Yuyu Chen Google review ·Read on Google: review by Yuyu Chen (opens in a new tab)
Had the pleasure of having them modify our home's surrounding, and I must say it was really impressive. If y'all are looking for someone to do landscaping, definitely consider this company.
- Margo Wickersham Google review ·Read on Google: review by Margo Wickersham (opens in a new tab)
Ean Nambo has a great eye for design and practicality that is more important for Austin area homeowners now than ever. We had a functional problem of water pooling at our front door during heavy rains. We had a design problem of a front yard that was 20% grass and 80% weeds that required mowing and turned brown during droughts. I challenged Ean to help me create a xeriscaped front yard that diverts water away from our house and into the street and that looks like the updated and modern home that we've created. I wanted to avoid installing a lawn that would be thirsty for water in our climate and I had some ideas for including a dry creek running through the property. I am thrilled with the results! I love the look and the dry creek bed did its job during a recent deluge. Ean had ideas to make the most of a courtyard area that converted the space into an additional gathering area and I couldn't be happier with the result. He also included dramatic landscape lighting installation that showcases the lovely texture of the limestone exterior and the grace of our live oaks that have survived the recent freezes. I wanted to avoid over planting, so as we planted a few things. I'm happy with this strategy, because I can see which plants work best in which areas for future plantings. Rarely can a homeowner say they are so happy with the results of working with a landscape company, so I am thrilled to share met experience with others considering 512 Luxury Landscaping.
- Adan Vasquez Google review ·Read on Google: review by Adan Vasquez (opens in a new tab)
enjoy working with Ean and his crew, always easy to communicate with.
- Anna Valenzuela Google review ·Read on Google: review by Anna Valenzuela (opens in a new tab)
Very pleased with how the driveway came out. Definitely recommend this company.
- Terry Kelley Google review ·Read on Google: review by Terry Kelley (opens in a new tab)
We had Ean and crew add an extension to our driveway and reroute sprinklers. The work was slows down by city permits issues but they were very patient with that and finished soon after permits were approved. Very happy with the work. Would use them again in a second.
- Karima King Google review ·Read on Google: review by Karima King (opens in a new tab)
We are very happy with the project/ service Ian and his team provided to us. Great communication, timely and very respectful. Would recommend 100 times! Thanks Ian and team!
- Skylar Saenz Google review ·Read on Google: review by Skylar Saenz (opens in a new tab)
Ean and the team at 512 Luxury & Design exceeded my expectations. He walked through the project with me, listened to my ideas, and added his own expert input. He then put everything together in a digital format and sent it over for review. When the team arrived, they brought the vision to life flawlessly. I highly recommend Ean and his team for their professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail!
- Norma Miller Google review ·Read on Google: review by Norma Miller (opens in a new tab)
512 Luxury Landscape Design added a patio extension which included a pergola cover. The owner was easy to communicate with, stayed on top of things and did not let the job drag on, and ensured the job was completed to satisfaction. It was a pleasure working with them!
- Nekeda Boggs Google review ·Read on Google: review by Nekeda Boggs (opens in a new tab)
I looked all over for a reasonable priced gazebo. Had no luck. I was referred to 512 Luxury Landscape and the process went seamlessly. Ean and his team were prompt and did an exceptional job building my gazebo. I absolutely love it.
- Nick Kelly Google review ·Read on Google: review by Nick Kelly (opens in a new tab)
Loved working with 512, local, attention to detail and transparent. Thank you!
- Jesse DeNucci Google review ·Read on Google: review by Jesse DeNucci (opens in a new tab)
Excellent service and professionalism along with a personal touch neighborly kindness. It says a lot when you can higher a company that takes as much pride in their work as this company. As a business owner myself, its unfortunately too hard to find a company that stands by their work AND their customer. 512 will impress you. Thanks team!
- J F Google review ·Read on Google: review by J F (opens in a new tab)
Ean is always friendly and informative. Highly recommend. 🌱
- Lacey Kapetanis Google review ·Read on Google: review by Lacey Kapetanis (opens in a new tab)
Great company and great ownership! If you’re looking for a company that is reliable, amazing work ethic / finishing product and personable, you will most definitely want to get in touch with the owner, Ean!
- Jasmin H-C Google review ·Read on Google: review by Jasmin H-C (opens in a new tab)
It has been a pleasure working with Ean. Consultation, design and execution was performed professionally. Communication was flawless and so was the project result. Loved the additional ideas he provided and the result exceeded my expectations. Couldn’t be more happy. Thank you so much!!!!
Why Lake Travis Homeowners Choose Us for Lakefront Landscaping
Building on a lake lot takes a plan for steep banks, a moving waterline, and the LCRA rules that govern the shore.
Rated 4.8 on Google
28 homeowners have reviewed us on Google, with an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Read our Google reviews
Designing and Building Since 2018
One in-house team designs and builds your project, so there is no handoff between a designer and a separate crew. The owner stays involved from the first walk-through to the final cleanup.
We Plan Around LCRA Rules
We check where your project sits against the lake's regulated pool level before we plan, so you know up front if LCRA needs a notice or a permit.
Lakefront Landscaping Services on Lake Travis
FROM THE SHORELINE UP TO THE HOUSELakefront landscaping covers everything between your back door and the water. At 512 Luxury Landscape Design, we plan it as one project, so the walls, drainage, planting, and paths all work together. This work is part of our full landscaping services, and it draws on our stone, concrete, and design crews too.
What We Build on Lakefront Lots
- Retaining walls and stone terraces that turn a steep bank into flat, usable space.
- Limestone steps and walkways that lead from the house down toward the dock.
- Land grading and drainage that move runoff around the house and slow it before it reaches the lake.
- Native beds and buffer plantings that hold soil on the slope.
- Patios, outdoor kitchens, and shade structures placed to face the water.
- Landscape lighting on steps and paths so the walk to the water is safe after dark.
Holding the Bank and Stopping Erosion
Most lots on Lake Travis fall toward the water across rocky hillsides. When heavy rain hits, water runs downhill fast and pulls soil with it. Left alone, that cuts gullies, undermines paths, and sends mud into the lake. We grade the slope and build walls and terraces that step down the hill. We add drains that carry water where it can soak in or leave the lot cleanly. Deep-rooted plants between the terraces help hold the soil that is left.
Planting for a Lake That Rises and Falls
The lower part of a lake lot lives two lives. In a drought it can sit high and dry for months. After a flood it can be under water. Plants there need to handle both. Up on the lot, the soil is thin and rocky over limestone, and summers are long and hot. We use tough natives like Texas sage, agave, yucca, rock rose, and native grasses. Where roots need more room, we build raised beds with good soil. LCRA suggests native buffer strips along the shore to filter runoff from lawns, and we build those into the plan.
Working Near the Dock and the Shoreline
We build the steps, paths, walls, and lighting that connect your yard to the dock. The dock itself has its own rules. It must meet LCRA's Safety Standards for Residential Docks, which cover things like flotation, lighting, anchoring, and how far a dock can reach from shore. Walls, riprap, or fill placed below the lake's regulated pool level fall under LCRA's Highland Lakes Dredge and Fill Ordinance. We check where your project sits against that line before we plan, so you know up front if LCRA needs a notice or a permit.
What Lakefront Landscaping Costs
We price every lake lot on its own, so we do not post flat numbers. A few things move the cost most. How steep the lot is matters. So does how hard the rock is to dig and how easy it is to get equipment down the slope. Retaining walls, an HOA review, or LCRA paperwork for shoreline work can add steps. A planting and drainage refresh sits at the low end. A terraced bank with stone walls, steps, and a patio sits much higher. We walk your property and give you a clear written estimate for free, so there are no surprises.
Lakefront Landscaping Across the Austin Area
We offer lakefront landscaping for homes across Central Texas, including Lakeway, Spicewood, and Austin. See every community we work in on our service areas page.
Planning ahead? Read our guide to xeriscaping in Austin.
Ready to make more of your lake lot? Contact 512 Luxury Landscape Design today to schedule your free lakefront landscaping estimate.
Get a Free EstimateLake Travis Rules and Conditions We Plan Around
Two things shape every lakefront yard on Lake Travis: the slope and the water. The lake sits on the Edwards Plateau, the limestone shelf that forms the Hill Country. Soil is thin and rocky, with hard caliche in spots, and lots drop steeply toward the shore. The water level moves a lot. It fell to about 627 feet in late October 2023, more than 50 feet below full pool. Heavy rain in early July 2025 then brought it back to about 90 percent full by July 20.
Most of the shoreline rules come from LCRA. Its Highland Lakes Dredge and Fill Ordinance took effect January 1, 2022. It covers seawalls, retaining walls, riprap, and fill placed below the regulated pool level. Smaller jobs, under 500 cubic yards or 500 feet of shoreline, need a written notice to LCRA. Bigger ones need a permit. When the lake is below 676 feet, you can mow or hand-clear land plants on the exposed lakebed without a notice, but pushing, dragging, or digging with equipment needs a notice first. LCRA's Highland Lakes Watershed Ordinance adds stormwater rules for larger projects in the Lake Travis watershed, and some cities, like Lakeway, run that program locally.
- Steep limestone banks, handled with grading, retaining walls, and stone terraces that hold the slope.
- Thin, rocky soil with caliche in spots, handled with raised beds, imported soil, and deep-rooted natives.
- A lake level that has swung nearly 100 feet over its history, so the lower yard is built for both flood and drought.
- LCRA notice or permit rules for walls, riprap, and fill below the regulated pool level.
- Lakefront homes in Lakeway, Spicewood, Hudson Bend, Point Venture, Briarcliff, Volente, and the Hill Country neighborhoods in between.

Lakefront Landscaping FAQs
Do I need a permit for lakefront landscaping on Lake Travis?
It depends on where the work sits. Planting, beds, and lawn work up on the lot usually do not need anything from LCRA. Work at the shore is different. The Lower Colorado River Authority's Highland Lakes Dredge and Fill Ordinance, in effect since January 1, 2022, covers seawalls, retaining walls, riprap, and fill placed below the lake's regulated pool level. Smaller jobs, under 500 cubic yards or 500 feet of shoreline, need a written notice to LCRA. Bigger jobs need an LCRA permit. Your city or HOA may have its own rules too. We check what applies to your lot before we plan the work.
How do changing lake levels affect my yard?
Lake Travis is mainly a flood-control reservoir, so its level moves a lot. Full pool is 681 feet above sea level. It dropped to about 627 feet in late October 2023, then heavy rain in July 2025 brought it back to about 90 percent full. That swing dries out and then floods the lower part of a lake lot. We build that zone for both. We use erosion control, terraces that hold the bank when the water drops, and plants that handle wet and dry spells. Up on the lot, we build a yard that does not depend on where the water line sits.
Can you build retaining walls on a steep lakefront lot?
Yes. Most lots on Lake Travis fall toward the water across rocky limestone hillsides. We grade the slope, build retaining walls and stone terraces that step down the hill, and route drainage so runoff leaves cleanly and does not carry soil into the lake. Terraces also turn an unusable slope into flat space for a patio, beds, or a path to the dock. Walls placed below the lake's regulated pool level fall under LCRA's Dredge and Fill Ordinance, so we check that line first.
Can I clear brush on the exposed lakebed when the lake is low?
Often, yes. LCRA allows mowing, shredding, chainsawing, and hand removal of land plants on the exposed lakebed without a notice or permit when Lake Travis is below 676 feet. Work that pushes, drags, or digs in the lakebed with equipment needs a written notice to LCRA before it starts. Plants growing in the water are a separate matter. LCRA says managing aquatic plants on Lake Travis needs approval in advance from Texas Parks and Wildlife and LCRA.
What plants work on a Lake Travis lot?
The ground around the lake is thin and rocky over limestone, with hard caliche in spots, and it dries out fast in a long Hill Country summer. Deep-rooted, drought-tough natives do best. We lean on plants like Texas sage, agave, yucca, rock rose, and native grasses that hold a slope and handle the heat. Where the soil is too shallow, we build raised beds and bring in good soil. Near the shore, LCRA suggests native buffer strips that filter runoff from lawns, and we plan those in.
Which areas around Lake Travis do you serve?
We serve lakefront homes around the lake, including Lakeway and Rough Hollow, Spicewood, Hudson Bend, Point Venture, Briarcliff, and Volente. These areas share the same conditions: steep limestone lots, thin rocky soil, and LCRA shoreline rules on waterfront parcels. See all of our service areas for the rest of the Austin area.
What does lakefront landscaping cost?
Every lake lot is priced on its own, so we do not post flat numbers. The price moves most with how steep the lot is, how hard the rock is to dig, and how easy it is to get equipment down the slope. Retaining walls, an HOA review, or LCRA paperwork for shoreline work can add steps. A planting and drainage refresh sits at the low end. A terraced bank with stone walls, steps, and a patio sits much higher. We walk your property and hand you a clear written estimate for free.






