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. After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Mike Forness continued building his professional experience within the construction and landscaping industries. In 2005, he earned a certified state building contractor license from the Florida State Construction Licensing Board. His educational background and field experience have helped him develop a steady and organized approach to both project management and residential landscape construction. He is the founder and owner of Coastal Landscapes of Volusia, a company he established in 2001. Since then, he has focused on serving homeowners in the New Smyrna Beach area who are seeking carefully planned outdoor spaces designed for coastal living. His projects often involve waterfront and riverfront homes, where environmental conditions require thoughtful preparation and long-term planning. Through his design-build process, Michael W. Forness manages projects from the initial planning stage through construction and completion. His responsibilities include scheduling, client communication, site coordination, budgeting, and overseeing installations. By remaining involved throughout every phase, he maintains consistency and organization across each project. His landscaping work frequently combines hardscape elements, irrigation systems, drainage planning, and plant selection into one coordinated design. Michael Forness believes outdoor areas should function as an extension of the home rather than simply decorative additions. This perspective has shaped his work for many years and continues to influence the way he approaches residential projects. Operating in a coastal environment also requires attention to changing weather patterns, salt air exposure, and shifting terrain conditions. Over time, he has gained practical experience working with these factors while creating outdoor spaces designed for long-term durability. In the region connected to Michael Forness New Smyrna, his projects reflect a balance between functionality and the natural character of the surrounding environment. Along with the creative and technical aspects of landscaping, he also manages his company's business operations. Estimating costs, organizing resources, and maintaining communication with homeowners are important parts of his daily responsibilities. His business education has supported his ability to oversee both field operations and administrative management. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys spending time on Florida’s east coast through offshore fishing and surfing. Mike also values family life and remains closely involved with his wife and daughters. His wife plays an active role within the company as office manager and marketing director, helping support daily operations and long-term business planning. Together, they have three daughters who are each pursuing their own educational and career goals. One is continuing her studies in nursing, another is working toward a career in accounting, and their youngest daughter remains active in academics and competitive soccer during high school. He has also maintained strong ties to the local community through support for youth sports and school athletic programs. Through both personal involvement and business sponsorships, Michael Forness New Smyrna continues to contribute to the New Smyrna Beach community while remaining committed to thoughtful landscaping and dependable project management.