Turning your ideas into reality
Otto's Design & Contracting
your local OUTDOOR design expertS
At Otto’s Design & Contracting Co., we bring structure, beauty, and balance to your outdoor space through custom landscaping and hardscaping design. From elegant stone walkways and retaining walls to lush garden beds and functional grading, our work is rooted in craftsmanship and tailored to enhance your home’s natural setting. Serving Raleigh, Garner, and surrounding communities, we offer thoughtful, full-service solutions that elevate your curb appeal and extend your living space into the outdoors.
We approach each project with a deep understanding of both design and terrain—creating outdoor environments that are not only visually stunning but built to thrive in North Carolina’s climate. Whether you’re starting from a blank slate or refreshing your existing yard, we’ll work with you to craft a space that’s inviting, practical, and perfectly integrated into your property.
As a licensed and insured design-build firm, we manage everything in-house—from concept to construction—to ensure a smooth, efficient process and results that exceed expectations.
At Otto’s, we don’t just shape the landscape—we transform it with purpose, detail, and lasting value.
LANDSCAPING & HARDSCAPING DESIGN/BUILD SERVICES
otto's contracting
Patios & Stone Walkways
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Stone patios and walkways create the foundation for a beautiful, functional outdoor space. Whether you’re leading guests to a garden, connecting key areas in the yard, or adding a central hub for relaxing and entertaining, hardscaped paths add structure and style. Materials like flagstone, pavers, and brick bring durability with timeless appeal.
At Otto’s Contracting, we design patios and walkways that feel intuitive and grounded—following the natural contours of your land while complementing your home’s exterior. From simple paths to multi-level flagstone terraces, we pay close attention to material selection, drainage, and layout. The result is a seamless flow between your home and landscape that feels polished, welcoming, and built to last.
Retaining Walls & Grading Solutions
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Retaining walls aren’t just functional—they’re foundational to creating usable, level space in sloped or uneven yards. Whether you’re preventing erosion, supporting soil, or adding dimension to your landscaping, well-designed walls make your outdoor space safer and more visually cohesive.
At Otto’s Contracting, we use materials like block, stone, and timber to build retaining walls that are as attractive as they are strong. We evaluate slope, drainage, and soil stability to create solutions that work with your land—not against it. From tiered garden beds to structural landscape transformations, we make elevation changes feel natural, purposeful, and beautiful.
Garden & Plant Bed Design
otto's contracting
A thoughtfully designed garden bed can soften hardscapes, add color and movement, and make your outdoor space feel lush and alive. Whether it’s a formal border, a pollinator-friendly native planting, or a casual cottage garden, plants bring life, beauty, and seasonal interest to your yard.
At Otto’s Contracting, we design plant beds with intention—factoring in light, soil, drainage, and maintenance preferences. From perennial layouts and privacy screens to curbside foundation beds, we layer color, texture, and structure to create landscapes that look great year-round and reflect your personal style.
Outdoor Steps & Grade Transitions
otto's contracting
Sloped yards don’t have to be a challenge—they can be an opportunity. By integrating stone, concrete, or wood steps into your landscape, we make grade transitions safe, functional, and beautiful. Whether you’re connecting a patio to a lawn or creating access to a lower-level garden, steps create flow and visual rhythm.
At Otto’s Contracting, we focus on proportion, scale, and material harmony when designing outdoor steps. We ensure everything ties into the overall landscape and complements your home’s architecture. It’s all about ease of use and visual balance—making elevation changes feel effortless and intentional.
Custom Landscape Lighting
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Great landscaping doesn’t disappear after dark. With custom lighting, you can highlight architectural features, enhance safety, and extend the usability of your outdoor space well into the evening. From pathway lights and uplighting to subtle deck or patio illumination, well-placed lighting creates atmosphere and functionality.
At Otto’s Contracting, we take a strategic approach to lighting—combining aesthetics with safety and efficiency. We install low-voltage, energy-efficient systems tailored to your landscape’s layout and your daily routines. The result? A welcoming, elevated ambiance that enhances your home’s exterior both practically and visually.
additional specialties
otto's contracting
Dry-Stack Stone Walls
Natural charm with no mortar required. These rustic, mortar-free walls are perfect for edging gardens or terracing hillsides. Otto’s builds each one with care—balancing aesthetics with structure and local stone textures.
Low-Maintenance Native Plantings
Beauty that thrives in your climate. We design planting beds using native species that require less water, fewer chemicals, and minimal upkeep—perfect for North Carolina’s weather and soil conditions.
Integrated Drainage Systems
Behind-the-scenes protection you can count on. Proper grading and discreet drainage solutions protect your landscape and foundation from water damage—Otto’s ensures every detail is built to last.
Fire Pit Hardscape Integration
Warmth meets design. We seamlessly incorporate built-in or stone fire pits into your patio layout—creating cozy gathering spaces that feel like a natural extension of your yard.
Landscape Border Edging
Clean lines, crisp transitions. We install custom edging to define beds, separate turf from mulch, and keep your landscape looking sharp and polished season after season.
OUR GALLERY
TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY
Discover where timeless design meets resort-style comfort with Otto Contracting’s custom pool builds. From sleek modern lines to natural, freeform designs, our pools are crafted to elevate your backyard into a personal retreat. We focus on thoughtful layouts, premium materials, and seamless integration with your outdoor space—delivering a finished product that’s both functional and breathtaking. Explore our gallery to see how we turn ordinary yards into stunning, staycation-worthy escapes.
OUR PROCESS
SMOOTH & TRANSPARENT
DISCOVERY CALL
Our process begins with a quick discovery call to understand your goals, needs, and budget. We’ll then schedule an on-site visit to review your plans and gather key site data. This allows us to prepare a proposal and develop a realistic budget. If a design hasn’t been completed, we’ll help create one, finalize selections together, and then move into construction.
SITE VISIT
Next, we’ll meet with you on-site to walk through the space, review any plans, and gather the site data we need to move forward. This visit helps us understand the existing conditions and any unique project requirements. From there, we’ll use what we’ve learned to draft a clear and accurate proposal, along with a budget tailored to your goals and scope of work.
DESIGN
We’ll create a design proposal using the ideas we discussed and the details collected during your site visit. For more intricate projects, architectural or engineering input may be required before finalizing plans. When needed, we collaborate with experienced architects, designers, and engineers who align with our process and help guide each step with clarity and care.
PRE-CONSTRUCTION
Once the proposal is approved and signed, we’ll begin preparing for pre-construction based on your finalized scope of work. This includes confirming logistics, finalizing selections, and coordinating any required permits or documentation. This phase ensures every detail is accounted for so construction can begin smoothly, on time, and with complete clarity.
BUILD
With the design finalized and selections made, we’ll begin the construction phase. Our team manages the entire build process from start to finish—coordinating schedules, materials, and subcontractors to keep everything running smoothly. We’re committed to clear communication, lasting quality, and bringing your vision to life.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
YOUR QUESTIONS - ANSWERED
How long does a typical landscaping or hardscaping project take?
Project timelines vary based on scope, size, and weather—but most installs take between 2 and 6 weeks. Design and planning may add an extra 1–2 weeks. Otto’s provides clear scheduling up front and keeps you updated every step of the way.
Do you help with both design and installation?
Yes. As a full-service design-build firm, we handle the entire process—from initial landscape concepts and 3D renderings to grading, planting, and final detailing. You won’t need to juggle multiple contractors.
Can you work with my existing landscape or do you start from scratch?
We’re happy to refresh existing landscapes or build entirely new ones. Whether you need a full overhaul or just want to enhance one area, we’ll create a plan that works with your budget and goals.
What types of materials do you use for hardscaping?
We work with a wide range of materials including natural stone, pavers, brick, timber, and concrete. Material choice depends on the design style, function, and your preferences—Otto’s will guide you through all the options.
Do you offer low-maintenance landscape options?
Absolutely. We often incorporate drought-tolerant plants, native species, weed barriers, and smart irrigation systems to reduce upkeep. Our goal is to create landscapes that look great without requiring constant care.
Is drainage included in your landscaping plans?
Yes. Drainage is a key part of any successful outdoor space. We assess slope, water flow, and soil conditions to build in hidden drainage solutions that keep your property protected.
How much does a landscaping or hardscaping project cost?
Costs can vary widely depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the project. Smaller enhancements may start around $5,000, while full-scale installations with hardscaping elements can range from $15,000 to $75,000+. We provide transparent, detailed estimates and flexible options to fit your vision.
Still have questions? We’re here to help. If you didn’t find the answer you were looking for, don’t worry—our team at Otto’s Contracting is always happy to talk through your ideas, walk you through the process, or clarify any details. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or you’re ready to dive into design, we’re here to make sure you feel confident every step of the way. Reach out to us anytime—we’d love to connect and help bring your backyard vision to life.
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who we serve
- APEX
- CARY
- CHAPEL HILL
- CLAYTON
- DURHAM
- FUQUAY-VARINA
- GARNER
- KNIGHTDALE
- MORRISVILLE
- PITTSBORO
- RALEIGH
- ROLESVILLE
- WAKE FOREST
- ZEBULON
We proudly serve homeowners across the Triangle, including Apex, Cary, Chapel Hill, Clayton, Durham, Fuquay Varina, Garner, Knightdale, Morrisville, Pittsboro, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wake Forest, and Zebulon. If you don’t see your location listed, feel free to reach out—our team is always happy to explore how we can help bring your project to life.