Biography of Michael Forness New Smyrna

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 Forness of New Smyrna earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of Central Florida In 2005, he also earned a certified state building contractor license from the Florida State Construction Licensing Board, adding a formal building credential to his practical experience in residential landscape development.
Shaping Coastal Landscapes
In New Smyrna Beach, his work is closely connected to outdoor spaces designed for riverfront and oceanfront homes. His career has been built around a design-build approach that integrates planning, site review, construction coordination, and installation into a single, organized process
Michael W. Forness is the owner of Coastal Landscapes of Volusia. Since founding the company in 2001, he has primarily served homeowners seeking thoughtful, customized landscaping rather than standard outdoor upgrades Many of his projects involve coastal sites, where drainage, soil conditions, salt exposure, and changing weather patterns must be carefully considered
Mike Forness approaches landscaping as a natural part of the home’s full design Each project is planned with attention to proportion, comfort, daily use, and long-term durability By staying involved in client conversations, scheduling, and on-site coordination, he helps each stage move forward with consistency This steady involvement has supported his reputation among homeowners with high-value properties and clear expectations
Design-Build Expertise in a Competitive Market
Working in a coastal market like New Smyrna Beach requires field knowledge, patience, and careful planning Salt air, moisture, shifting weather, and unique terrain can all affect how outdoor spaces are designed, built, and maintained. His approach considers these conditions while maintaining an attractive, practical, and property-specific final result.
His projects often include custom outdoor environments for luxury residences. These spaces may combine hardscape features, plant selections, irrigation planning, and full layout development Each element must serve its own role while also supporting the broader design This level of coordination reflects the value of his design-build experience.
His business background also supports his project management approach Accurate estimating, organized scheduling, clear communication, and careful resource planning all help create a smoother process for clients With both business training and hands-on landscape experience, he can manage the creative, technical, and operational aspects of each job.