When the existing site topography at Stone Gate development drove up the costs of traditional storm sewers, Bonestroo worked with Lumber One to design a neighborhood that relied solely on rainwater gardens to manage its stormwater. With more than 36 acres of high-quality wetlands in the 150-acre site, managing stormwater was critical. To protect the area's natural amenities and enhance its aesthetic value, the rainwater garden design was retrofitted to the area’s existing natural resources and wetlands.
The rain gardens were custom-seeded with native species that have deep roots, which increased area infiltration, enhanced aesthetics, and reduced maintenance needs.