Portfolio

Featured Design - The Jones Residence

The Challenge - to remove all grass and revitalize the backyard space. The client wishes for an entertaining space with a Japanese-inspired look including a water feature, edible garden, and low-maintenance plants.

The Solution - Large patio slabs and a new concrete patio are complimented by pea gravel and shrubbery with fragrance, colour, and texture. The water feature is adjacent to the seating area under the pergola. Rain barrels collect water from existing drains for use in the raised garden beds. Xeriscaping at its best!

The Morrison Residence

My approach - The Morrison Residence

The Challenge - to balance beauty and privacy around a newly-installed pool and interlock deck with a cabana.

The Solution - two flowering (non-fruiting) pear trees anchor the design with a grouping of three fastigiate Sweet Gum trees taking centre stage to provide shade and privacy. Low maintenance shrubbery on the middle layer brings colour through seasonal bloom and foliage. Accent points are provided by Black Lace Elderberry, Hakuro Nishiki Willow and a Ukon Japanese Maple. Smaller perennials complete the look along the edges. Deep borders offset the hardscaping and make the space look larger than it is. Plantings are chosen to minimize debris in and around the pool area.

The Harrison Residence

My approach - The Harrison Residence

The Challenge - to create a low maintenance recreational space including a hot tub and deck for entertaining, along with space for children to play and privacy from neighbours.

The Solution - two fastigiate tree groupings anchor the design by providing structure, privacy and shade. A Japanese maple provides a centre accent flanked by golden cypress and flowering hydrangea shrubs. The design is completed with grass for textural interest and long-blooming day lily plants. No need to plant annuals. Colourful ninebark hedging completes the scheme along the fence line.

The Evans Residence

My Approach - The Evans Residence

The Challenge - to create curb appeal and eliminate the cost and maintenance of a sodded front yard.

The Solution - This eco-friendly design creates a highly permeable ground plane with interest and height provided by permanent shrubbery, grasses, and seasonal long bloomers to attract butterflies. Armour stones are used to give a natural look and to guide foot traffic. Small trees offer symmetrical balance to complete the design.