Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce secured unanimous approval for revised landscaping plans at their Bratenahl, Ohio mansion on Tuesday despite local concerns over wildlife habitats.
The local Architectural Review Board convened at the Bratenahl Community Center to evaluate the property updates for the lakefront home, according to Page Six. Around 35 people attended the meeting, where residents debated the addition of 10-foot privacy shrubs and brickwork.
Swift and Kelce purchased the eight-bedroom, 11-bathroom estate in March 2026. The “Cruel Summer” artist and Kansas City Chiefs tight end tied the knot in July. Travis Kelce was born and raised in Ohio.
Swift and Kelce did not attend the Tuesday meeting. Property manager Patrick Hyland, architect Derek Kuryla, and project manager Jacob Kutz represented the couple as the board approved the revised layout. The approved plans for the $5.35 million lakefront property include 10-foot shrubs and updated brickwork.
TMZ reported that the couple previously faced pushback over an initial fence proposal that sparked concerns among neighbors regarding sewer lines and deer safety. Their original fence proposal was rejected in September, and the couple previously got approval to erect a 6-foot privacy fence in September.
Resident Lucy Weller raised concerns during the public session regarding local fauna.
“They don’t need lawns; they need food and cover and they need places to have sex. I don’t think this landscape does anything to provide for any of the wildlife,” Weller told Page Six, arguing that the design fails to support native species.
Weller also stated:
“This is not going to be open, and this is a forest, and I’m not sure why the board is going in that direction. You’re going against ordinances? Am I mistaken? I don’t think I am,” Bauernschmidt told Page Six.
Other attendees voiced support for the high-profile residents. Vasiliki Diamantis urged the community to welcome the couple, noting that Bratenahl should embrace their choice of residence.
That sentiment drew applause from the crowd, while other community members praised the investment in the neighborhood. Another resident added:
It would be a shame.
One attendee was frustrated about the whole discussion, calling it “stupid” to get worked up over a property that will be “sold in seven to 10 years when the divorce happens.” That comment was met with boos from the crowd.
The board unanimously approved revised landscaping plans including 10-foot privacy shrubs and updated brickwork for the $5.35 million lakefront property.
Property manager Patrick Hyland, architect Derek Kuryla, and project manager Jacob Kutz represented the couple at the Bratenahl Community Center.
An initial 8-foot privacy fence proposal faced resistance in September 2026 over deer safety and sewer line concerns before the couple secured approval for a revised 6-foot version.