Michael W. Forness is a design-build landscaping specialist whose career is characterized by technical discipline and a strong connection to the coastal environment he serves. Also known informally as “Mike” or “Michael Forness”, the New Smyrna Beach-based landscape contractor focuses primarily on high-end residential landscaping, where he has more than two decades of hands-on experience.

Michael completed his Bachelor’s degree in Business at the University of Central Florida. In 2005, he earned a certified state building contractor license from the Florida State Construction Licensing Board, adding a professional credential to his work in residential outdoor construction and landscape development.

Shaping Coastal Landscapes

In New Smyrna Beach, Mike Forness's work is connected to carefully planned outdoor spaces for riverfront and oceanfront homes. His career has been shaped by a design-build approach that brings planning, technical preparation, construction awareness, and installation into one coordinated process.

Michael is the owner of Coastal Landscapes of Volusia. Since founding the company in 2001, he has focused primarily on homeowners seeking customized landscape solutions rather than basic yard improvements. Many of his projects are located near water, where drainage, soil conditions, salt exposure, and changing weather patterns must be considered from the beginning.

Michael approaches landscaping as part of the home’s overall function and appearance. Each project is planned with attention to proportion, comfort, usability, and lasting performance. By staying involved in client communication, scheduling, and on-site coordination, he helps each phase move forward with steady oversight. This practical involvement has supported his reputation for reliable results on high-value residential properties.

Design-Build Expertise in a Competitive Market

Working in a coastal market like New Smyrna Beach requires more than standard landscaping knowledge. Salt air, moisture, uneven terrain, and weather shifts can affect how outdoor spaces are designed, built, and maintained. His method accounts for these conditions while maintaining an attractive, useful final design.

Michael's projects often include custom outdoor areas for luxury homes. These designs may involve hardscape features, plant selections, irrigation planning, and full layout development. Each part must work well on its own while also fitting into the complete outdoor plan. This level of coordination reflects the value of his design-build experience.

The business side of his work is also important. Careful estimating, clear communication, organized scheduling, and resource management all help support successful project delivery. His background in business provides him with a solid foundation for handling the creative, technical, and operational demands of each job.

Mike Forness Outside the Job Site

Outside of work, Michael Forness of New Smyrna remains closely tied to the coastal lifestyle of Florida’s east coast. He enjoys offshore fishing and surfing, which reflect his personal connection to the water and the environment around him.

At home, Michael values his role as a husband and father. His wife is involved in the business as office manager and marketing director, helping support daily operations and long-term company growth.

Michael and his wife have three daughters, each moving forward in her own direction. One graduated from UCF and is currently attending Daytona State College, pursuing the nurse practitioner track.

Another graduated from Florida State University and is pursuing a career as a CPA. His youngest daughter is still in high school, where she balances academics and athletics as an honor roll student and goalkeeper for the New Smyrna Beach Cudas. She also competes in club soccer for Ormond Beach.

Community Ties

Over the years, he has built strong local ties through both his company and personal involvement. His landscape work contributes to the character of neighborhoods where outdoor living is an important part of daily life.

Michael's support for the community also extends beyond his professional projects. He has been an active supporter of local youth sports programs and related initiatives. Through his business, he has frequently sponsored high school boys' and girls' soccer clubs.

This involvement shows his continued interest in supporting the place where he lives and works. It also connects naturally with his family’s involvement in athletics, especially through his youngest daughter’s participation in competitive soccer.

Continuing Professional Standards and Community Commitment

As the landscaping and building fields continue to change, his professional standards remain steady. Attention to detail, structured project management, and a clear understanding of client expectations continue to guide his work. While design preferences may evolve, he remains focused on creating outdoor spaces that are durable, functional, and connected to the home.

In New Smyrna Beach, Michael Forness's work reflects the coastal setting and the needs of homeowners who value thoughtful outdoor design. Through years of experience, practical judgment, and consistent community involvement, he represents a continued commitment to quality residential landscape design.

Portfolio 1: https://michaelfornessnewsmyrna.com/

Portfolio 2: https://michaelwforness.com/

Website: https://www.coastallandscapesflorida.com/

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The Hidden Challenges of Oceanfront Property Landscaping

Published on: 06-23-2026

Owning an oceanfront property offers breathtaking views, refreshing sea breezes, and direct access to the shoreline. However, creating and maintaining an attractive landscape in a coastal environment presents unique challenges that many property owners underestimate. Unlike inland properties, oceanfront landscapes must withstand constant exposure to salt spray, strong winds, shifting soils, and changing weather conditions. These environmental factors influence every landscaping decision, from plant selection to irrigation and hardscape design.

A successful coastal landscape requires more than visual appeal. It demands careful planning, durable materials, and ongoing maintenance to preserve both the property's beauty and its long-term value. By understanding the hidden challenges of oceanfront property landscaping, homeowners can create outdoor spaces that remain healthy, functional, and resilient throughout the seasons.

Salt Exposure Affects Plant Health

Salt is one of the biggest obstacles in coastal landscaping. Ocean winds carry fine salt particles that settle on leaves, stems, flowers, and soil, gradually damaging plants that are not adapted to these conditions. Even properties located a short distance from the shoreline experience salt exposure that can weaken vegetation over time.

Choosing salt-tolerant plants is essential for long-term success. Native coastal grasses, shrubs, and flowering plants have naturally developed the ability to thrive in salty environments. These species typically require less maintenance while providing reliable color, texture, and stability throughout the landscape.

Strong Coastal Winds Create Constant Stress

Oceanfront properties often experience powerful winds that affect nearly every part of the landscape. Young trees may lean, branches can break, and delicate flowers may struggle to survive during periods of sustained gusts. Wind also accelerates moisture loss, causing plants to dry out more quickly than expected.

Strategic landscape design helps reduce these effects. Windbreaks created with hardy shrubs, layered plantings, and carefully positioned trees help protect more vulnerable areas. By reducing wind speed across the property, these natural barriers improve growing conditions while increasing outdoor comfort for homeowners and guests.

Sandy Soil Requires Special Attention

Many coastal properties feature sandy soils that drain water rapidly. While good drainage prevents standing water, it also limits the soil's ability to retain moisture and nutrients. As a result, plants often require additional care to establish healthy root systems.

Improving soil quality through organic matter and compost helps increase moisture retention while supporting beneficial microorganisms. Healthy soil provides stronger foundations for plant growth and reduces the frequency of watering and fertilization, creating a more balanced landscape over time.

Coastal Erosion Threatens Outdoor Spaces

Shoreline erosion remains an ongoing concern for many oceanfront properties. High tides, storm surges, heavy rainfall, and wave action gradually reshape coastal landscapes, sometimes affecting lawns, gardens, pathways, and structural features. Without proper planning, erosion can reduce usable outdoor space and increase maintenance costs.

Landscaping can play an important role in erosion control. Deep-rooted native vegetation helps stabilize soil while minimizing runoff during heavy rain. Combining natural planting strategies with professionally designed drainage systems strengthens the landscape and helps protect valuable property along the shoreline.

Irrigation Demands Careful Planning

Water management becomes more complex in coastal environments. Although the ocean surrounds the property, saltwater cannot support most landscape plants. At the same time, sandy soil often allows freshwater to drain away before roots can fully absorb it.

Efficient irrigation systems deliver consistent moisture without excessive waste. Drip irrigation, moisture sensors, and properly timed watering schedules help plants receive adequate hydration while conserving freshwater resources. Regular system inspections also ensure reliable performance throughout changing weather conditions.

Hardscape Materials Face Harsh Conditions

Walkways, patios, retaining walls, decks, and outdoor furniture endure constant exposure to salt, humidity, ultraviolet rays, and fluctuating temperatures. Materials that perform well inland may deteriorate much faster in coastal settings due to corrosion, fading, and moisture damage.

Selecting durable materials designed for marine environments significantly extends the lifespan of outdoor features. Corrosion-resistant metals, weather-resistant stone, treated wood, and high-quality composite materials maintain their appearance while reducing long-term repair and replacement expenses.

Storm Preparation Is Part of Landscape Design

Coastal storms can dramatically affect oceanfront landscapes within a matter of hours. Heavy rainfall, flooding, strong winds, and flying debris place tremendous stress on both plants and structural elements. Landscapes that are not designed for severe weather often require extensive restoration after major storms.

Planning for resilience begins during the design phase. Secure tree placement, reinforced hardscapes, flexible drainage systems, and carefully selected vegetation improve the property's ability to recover more quickly following extreme weather events. Preventive maintenance further reduces the risk of storm-related damage.

Balancing Beauty With Long-Term Sustainability

Many homeowners envision lush tropical gardens overlooking the ocean, but maintaining these landscapes requires realistic expectations. Plants that demand excessive water, fertilizers, or constant replacement may struggle to survive under harsh coastal conditions, leading to higher maintenance costs and reduced environmental sustainability.

A balanced approach combines attractive design with environmentally responsible practices. Native plants, drought-tolerant species, efficient irrigation, and sustainable maintenance techniques create landscapes that remain beautiful while supporting local ecosystems. This strategy also reduces resource consumption and helps preserve the natural character of the coastline.

Oceanfront property landscaping involves far more than planting attractive flowers and maintaining green lawns. Salt exposure, coastal winds, sandy soil, erosion, storm activity, and material durability all influence how outdoor spaces perform over time. Each challenge requires thoughtful planning and specialized landscaping solutions that work with nature rather than against it.

By investing in resilient design, selecting coastal-appropriate plants, improving soil health, and using durable materials, property owners can enjoy outdoor spaces that withstand demanding coastal conditions. With careful planning and regular maintenance, oceanfront landscapes can remain both visually stunning and highly functional while protecting the long-term value of the property.

Outdoor Living Features That Are Redefining New Home Buyer Expectations in 2026

Published On: 06-18-2026

 

Outdoor living has become one of the most influential factors in new home purchases. Buyers today are not just looking for attractive interiors; they are actively evaluating how well a home supports life outside the walls. A well-designed outdoor space is now expected to offer comfort, function, and flexibility that match or even enhance indoor living.

 

Multi Functional Outdoor Spaces That Adapt to Daily Life

Modern homebuyers want outdoor areas that can serve multiple purposes without feeling cluttered or limited. Instead of a single open yard, they prefer thoughtfully designed spaces that support dining, relaxation, cooking, and social gatherings. This flexibility allows homeowners to use their outdoor areas in different ways throughout the day.

These multi-functional layouts also improve efficiency in everyday living. Families can enjoy separate activities in the same space without interference, which makes outdoor areas feel more usable and organized. It also helps homeowners host gatherings more comfortably, as the spaces can accommodate both small and large groups.

Designers often use subtle transitions, such as changes in flooring, landscaping layers, and lighting, to define each function. This creates a natural flow while still giving each zone a clear purpose, which is highly appealing to buyers.

 

Outdoor Kitchens That Bring Indoor Convenience Outside

Outdoor kitchens have become one of the most in-demand features in modern homes. Buyers expect more than a basic grill setup; they want fully equipped cooking areas that include countertops, sinks, storage, and refrigeration. These features make outdoor cooking practical for everyday use.

Lifestyle preferences strongly drive this trend. Homeowners increasingly enjoy hosting meals outdoors, where cooking becomes part of the social experience. It allows hosts to stay connected with guests while preparing food, creating a more engaging and relaxed environment.

Durability is also essential in these spaces. Weather-resistant materials like stainless steel, stone, and sealed surfaces ensure long-term use. This combination of functionality and durability makes outdoor kitchens a strong investment feature in new homes.

 

Seamless Flow Between Indoor and Outdoor Environments

A major expectation among homebuyers is the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Large sliding glass doors, folding walls, and open transitions help eliminate the separation between inside and outside living areas.

This design approach enhances natural light and ventilation throughout the home. It also creates visual continuity, making living spaces feel larger and more open. Buyers are increasingly drawn to homes that offer this sense of expanded living space.

From a functional perspective, seamless transitions support modern lifestyles. Families can move easily between cooking, dining, and relaxing without disruption. This flexibility is especially valuable for entertaining and everyday comfort.

 

Outdoor Living Rooms Built for Comfort and Connection

Comfort-focused outdoor living areas are now a top priority for buyers. These spaces are designed to feel like indoor living rooms, with cushioned seating, shaded areas, and carefully arranged layouts that encourage relaxation.

Material quality plays a major role in these environments. Weather-resistant fabrics, durable frames, and UV-protected materials ensure long-lasting comfort and usability. This reduces maintenance while maintaining a high level of style and comfort.

These spaces also support stronger social interaction. Seating is often arranged in conversational layouts, making it easier for families and guests to connect. This creates a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the overall outdoor experience.

 

Smart Outdoor Technology That Simplifies Home Living

Technology is transforming outdoor living spaces into intelligent environments. Homebuyers are increasingly interested in smart systems that control lighting, irrigation, and entertainment through mobile devices or voice commands.

Automated lighting is a key feature in this trend. It allows homeowners to adjust brightness based on time of day or activity, improving both ambiance and security. This makes outdoor areas more functional and enjoyable at all hours.

Smart irrigation systems are also highly valued. They adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, helping conserve water while keeping landscapes healthy. This combination of convenience and efficiency is becoming a standard expectation in new homes.

 

Fire Features That Create Year Round Outdoor Appeal

Fire features remain one of the most desirable outdoor additions for homebuyers. Fire pits, fireplaces, and fire tables provide warmth, ambiance, and a natural gathering point for social interaction.

These elements extend the usability of outdoor spaces into cooler seasons. Homeowners can enjoy their patios and backyards year-round, making outdoor living more versatile and valuable.

Fire features also enhance the design structure. They often act as focal points that organize seating and define outdoor zones. This adds both visual appeal and functional clarity to backyard layouts.

 

Sustainable Landscaping That Combines Beauty and Efficiency

Sustainability is now a key expectation in outdoor living design. Buyers are looking for landscapes that are visually appealing, easy to maintain, and environmentally responsible. Native plants, drought-resistant greenery, and efficient irrigation systems are commonly used to achieve this balance.

These designs significantly reduce maintenance needs. Homeowners spend less time watering, trimming, and treating plants, while still enjoying a beautiful outdoor environment. This practicality is especially attractive in busy modern lifestyles.

Sustainable landscaping also supports environmental health. It reduces water usage and helps preserve local ecosystems. This combination of beauty, efficiency, and responsibility makes it a defining feature of modern outdoor living spaces.