Hardscape patio project in a Cedar Falls Iowa backyard

Landscaping & Hardscaping in Cedar Falls, Iowa

Matthias Landscaping Co. brings 35 years of Cedar Valley experience to Cedar Falls, from the historic College Hill district to the newer developments west of town. Adjacent to our Waterloo headquarters for quick response times.

Schedule a Consultation

Cedar Falls is the cultural and academic heart of the Cedar Valley, home to the University of Northern Iowa and a thriving downtown district along Main Street. Matthias Landscaping Co. has served Cedar Falls homeowners and businesses since 1991, and our Waterloo headquarters on Wagner Road is just minutes from any Cedar Falls address. That proximity means fast response times, easy coordination, and the same level of attention we give to projects in our own backyard.

The city offers a unique mix of residential character. The College Hill neighborhood features craftsman-era homes on mature, tree-lined lots. Historic downtown Cedar Falls blends commercial storefronts with renovated residential properties along the Cedar River. And to the west, newer subdivisions continue to expand with modern construction that calls for complete outdoor design and installation. We have worked across all of these areas and understand the distinct needs each one presents.

Custom paver patio and hardscape installation in Cedar Falls Iowa

Landscaping Challenges Specific to Cedar Falls

College Hill & Historic District Properties

The College Hill neighborhood near UNI features some of Cedar Falls' oldest homes, many built in the early 1900s. These properties typically have mature tree canopies that create heavy shade, root systems that interfere with hardscape installations, and decades of landscape layering that needs careful renovation. Our approach for College Hill projects starts with a thorough site assessment to map root zones, evaluate grading around aging foundations, and identify drainage issues that have developed over time. We design landscape plans that work with these mature conditions rather than fighting them, selecting shade-tolerant plantings and using flexible hardscape installation methods that accommodate root systems without compromising structural integrity.

Big Woods Lake & Recreational Corridors

Cedar Falls is known for its extensive trail system and recreational areas, including Big Woods Lake, the George Wyth State Park corridor, and the Cedar Valley Nature Trail. Properties adjacent to these green spaces benefit from thoughtful landscape lighting and outdoor living features that take advantage of the natural surroundings. We design installations that complement these settings while maintaining proper setbacks and drainage away from trails and waterways.

Custom hardscape installation near College Hill in Cedar Falls Iowa
Aerial view of patio and landscape design in Cedar Falls Iowa

New Construction Landscaping in Western Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls continues to grow westward, with new residential developments expanding along Viking Road and University Avenue past the commercial corridor. These subdivisions offer newer homes with open lots that are perfect for complete outdoor transformations. Homeowners in these areas frequently request full-scope projects that include paver patios, seating walls, fire pits, professional sod installation, foundation plantings, and landscape lighting.

Builder-grade landscaping in these developments is typically minimal, so starting with a custom design plan ensures every element works together as a cohesive outdoor space. Our design team creates detailed 2D plans that map out hardscape areas, planting zones, lighting placement, and drainage before any work begins. This planning step saves time during installation and ensures the finished result matches your vision.

Commercial Properties & University-Adjacent

Cedar Falls has a strong commercial corridor along University Avenue and a growing number of office and retail properties near UNI. We provide commercial landscaping services for these properties, including design, installation, and seasonal maintenance. Businesses near the university benefit from well-maintained grounds that create a professional first impression for clients, students, and visitors.

Landscaping & Hardscaping Services in Cedar Falls

All of our services are available to Cedar Falls homeowners and businesses. Our proximity in Waterloo means quick scheduling and responsive service.

Ready to Transform Your Cedar Falls Property?

From College Hill to the western developments, we bring 35 years of Cedar Valley expertise to every Cedar Falls project. Contact us to discuss your vision.

Schedule a Consultation