How Eco-Friendly Engineering Can Turn Your Steep Yard into Usable, Beautiful Living Space

From Slope to Sanctuary

So, you’ve just closed on a new property—congratulations! If you’ve managed to snag one of Vancouver Island’s great shoreline properties, your excitement may be slightly dampened by a steep backyard slope, eroding hillside, or that awkward grade line that's making your outdoor space feel smaller and less functional than you'd hoped. 

Here's the good news: slope stabilization isn't only preventative—it’s also a clever way to gain valuable outdoor space in otherwise inaccessible areas and water access. With varied complexities and restrictions in place on a shoreline property, Flex MSE could be your best resource in maximizing your land use and livelihood! 

What Is Flex MSE?

Flex MSE (short for Mechanical Stabilized Earth) is a vegetated retaining wall system that combines the strength of geogrid-reinforced soil with the aesthetics and sustainability of green landscaping. It’s made up of interlocking geobags filled with soil, stacked and compacted to form a highly stable, plant-friendly wall. Over time, the structure blends into the landscape as vegetation takes hold—offering a natural, living solution to an otherwise rigid challenge.

Why It’s Perfect for Homeowners

Unlike traditional concrete or concrete block retaining walls, Flex MSE is flexible (ergo it’s name), eco-friendly, and cost-effective—ideal for homeowners looking to make functional, natural, sustainable improvements to their outdoor space.

Why Eden Projects Uses Flex MSE for Residential Sites

At Eden Projects, we choose Flex MSE for clients who want both form and function—and who value sustainable design. It’s the perfect solution for homeowners looking to reclaim space, improve drainage, and future-proof their outdoor environment.

If your new home sits on a hillside, boasts protected tree areas, waterways or uneven terrain, it’s worth exploring Flex MSE early in your landscaping plans. Not only can it prevent future drainage and erosion issues, but it’s an investment that actually adds usable space and curb appeal.

Whether you’re dreaming of tiered gardens, a terraced deck, or a level yard area to entertain guests and lifestyle, Flex MSE offers a sustainable and savvy way to reshape your property—and your lifestyle.

Benefits of Flex MSE for Homeowners:

• Gain Usable Square Footage: Reclaim sloped areas by creating level terraces for patios, gardens, or lawn space.

• Green Design, Literally: The wall face supports vegetation—so you get a lush, living slope instead of a gray, hard wall.

• Durable & Low Maintenance: Flex MSE is designed to last over 120 years and moves with the earth, reducing the risk of cracking or structural failure.

• Eco-Conscious: Made with low-impact materials and supporting natural habitats, it's a solution that aligns with Eden Projects’ regenerative design ethos.

• Faster, Smarter Install: Flex MSE installs quickly and often with fewer permitting hurdles than traditional retaining walls.
  

  Real Transformation, Real Results

We’ve helped dozens of new homeowners transform their steep backyards into tiered gardens, outdoor rooms, and secure foundations for future additions. Whether you're imagining a modern hillside garden, a kid-friendly yard, or simply a place to plant roots—literally—Flex MSE gives you the opportunity to make your landscape work for you.

Start with a Site Visit

Every property is unique. That’s why we offer personalized site assessments to determine the best approach for your slope stabilization and landscape goals. With Eden Projects, you’re not just getting a wall—you’re getting land back.

Interested in how Flex MSE can work on your site?
Let’s talk. Contact Eden Projects today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your outdoor space—beautifully and sustainably. (Image c/o Flex MSE)

Sources

• Flex MSE Official site