The homeowners were just starting a renovation to their current heritage home which included the addition of a new large detached garage. To them, the aesthetic preservation of the heritage style of their current home was number one priority. We were brought in to work in coordination with the builder and architect to ensure this was preserved, not only in the new garage building, but through the entire landscape which included new patios, pathways, garden beds, railings, fencing and a large fireplace as a central feature.

The functional use as much as the experience of this garden was of essence. We addressed this by looking at the entire home for visual integration, starting with the Arts and Craft details and style of the architecture presented. Exploring and dissecting each element, and further detailing new additions such as the metalwork which included railings, fencing, trellises, lighting and house numbers. The paving patterns, and layout with color variations in the border and intricate pattern to integrate all areas was key. The fireplace, being the central feature of the backyard, was carefully thought of in defining the location, consideration of layout and proportions, as well as materiality, such as the details of the stone finishes on the mantle and caps, versus walls and backdrop retention. The retaining walls, also cladded in the same stone but in a different finish, were carefully laid out to accentuate and frame the pathways and planting bed.

Finally the planting plan was very intricate, with careful consideration of existing mature vegetation, reuse of perennials where possible and integration of new plant material to make everything flower cohesively, provide seasonal interest and of course, stay true to its heritage.

For this project we also curated and incorporated bird baths, benches, furnishings, adornments to create a detailed finished product for the homeowners to enjoy years to come.