Complete Landscaping Makeover in Victoria BC

When first approached by the homeowner, there were several aspects that were to be focused on. There was a safety issue regarding access to the two side doors for the basement suites as well as the front stairs being broken. There was a big mound of dirt in the front from a previous owner’s attempt at a garden. There was poor access to the driveway. The front was also in a state of chaos and disrepair.

For the side, an existing poured retaining wall and another existing wooden wall had to be demolished and taken out. Access was very difficult due to the extremely narrow space between the bushes and the overhang of the house’s main floor. Furthermore, it was revealed there were THREE sets of mystery PVC pipes that had to be rerouted. Nonetheless, the pipes were cut, rerouted, two new sets of stairs were built, the remains of an older concrete walkway also removed as well as random debris, and replaced with compacted screenings, which is very low maintenance and hardy. Railings were put on all the stairs as well since safety was a major focus for this area especially with potentially older residents.

A paver walkway was built to replace an old cracked walkway that connected the front door to the side doors. The owner really appreciated the curved look, which always makes a big difference. Another walkway in the same style was built to connect the front walkway with the driveway so the owner didn’t have to walk through dirt and mud.

The front was cleared of bushes,  sod, weeds, and several tons of soil to lower the giant mound. A micro irrigation system that’s automated was also set up along with a map of the pipes (for future proofing), to irrigate the new plants that would be going in while saving on water. Drain rock was used to add contrast and character to the front and to reduce maintenance.

The front steps were redone as the old steps were falling apart and became a safety hazard. New slabs were brought in to create larger and more sturdy steps while two sets of metal railings were installed.

This entire job took almost two months but turned out very nicely.