Rooted in the North
We started Northstar because too many backyard projects felt like catalog orders. We build outdoor rooms for how Minnesotans actually live.
From one backyard to a hundred
Northstar Backyard Co. began in 2014 when founders Jake and Elena Olsen finished their own Edina backyard — pool, stone patio, fireplace — and realized their neighbors kept asking for the contractor's number. There wasn't one. They'd managed the project themselves.
That gap became the company: a single team that handles design, permits, excavation, plumbing, electrical, hardscape, and landscaping. No finger-pointing between subs. No disappearing when something goes wrong.
Twelve years and over 140 projects later, we're still a small team by choice. We take on 15–20 projects per year so every backyard gets the attention it deserves.
Three things we won't compromise on
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Design before demo
You'll see 3D renderings and material samples before we touch your yard. No surprises when the concrete truck arrives.
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Built for our climate
Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and short summers inform every material choice. We don't build California patios in Minnesota.
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One team, one warranty
Pool, patio, kitchen, lighting — all under one contract, one point of contact, one warranty. If something needs attention, you call us.
People who care about the details
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Jake Olsen
Founder & lead designer
Landscape architecture background. Obsessed with how spaces flow from inside to out.
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Elena Olsen
Founder & project director
Keeps every project on schedule and on budget. Your main point of contact from day one.
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Marcus Reid
Lead builder
20 years in hardscape and pool construction. If it involves stone or water, Marcus has done it.
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Sarah Kim
Lighting & landscape
Designs the layers of light and planting that make a backyard feel finished after dark.
Twin Cities and surrounding communities
We work within roughly 40 miles of downtown Minneapolis. Most of our projects are in the western and southern suburbs, but we've built everywhere from Stillwater to Victoria.
- Minneapolis & St. Paul
- Edina, Wayzata, Minnetonka
- Eden Prairie, Plymouth, Maple Grove
- Lakeville, Prior Lake, Victoria
- Stillwater, Woodbury, Orono
Ready to talk about your yard?
We offer free on-site consultations for homeowners in our service area.
Request a consultation