arts & Crafts old north
project vision
The story of this landscape journey starts just before this couple’s retirement, as they envisioned enhancing the curb appeal of their new home in its Arts and Crafts style. Initially, their property had a tiered, sloping lawn in the front, with a concrete walkway leading to the sidewalk and a single-lane asphalt driveway. However, they sought a landscape solution to accommodate a vehicle turnaround area, incorporate the majestic Norway Maple in their yard, and eliminate the challenging maintenance of the existing lawn.
DESIGN
Inspired by the Arts and Crafts philosophy, the landscape design features natural, locally-sourced materials that complement the architectural style. The deteriorating front steps were replaced with Wiarton limestone slab steps, nestled between existing brick wing walls. Two stone pillars were erected, framing the dry-laid flagstone walkway and slab steps to the front porch and door, with strategically placed lighting enhancing both charm and safety.
Rustic natural stone retaining walls, concealed by lush low-spreading evergreens, offer structural support. Indigenous multistem trees, thoughtfully chosen to endure varying sunlight patterns filtered through the existing Maple, adorn the landscape, adding year-round structural beauty to the scene.
Avid DIYers, the couple took charge of the transformation based on the landscape plans. They hired a grading contractor to remove the old driveway and walkways and install a base for the new hardscape. A skilled stone mason was enlisted to craft the stone pillars, while a seasoned landscape contractor expertly installed the stone slab steps between the wing walls.
Taking matters into their own hands, the couple assumed responsibility for installing the paving stone driveway, stone walls, square-cut flagstone walkway, and lush planting scheme.
Living with the Landscape
As they settled into their new landscape, challenges arose. While one embraced the freedom from lawn maintenance, the other grapples with the upkeep of the English Ivy—navigating the task of pruning and tending to its yellowing leaves, alongside the perennial chore of clearing away autumn leaves.
