It’s been decades since the TV show Home Improvement aired but it’s still hard to forget the “howdy-ho neighbour” that Wilson would greet Tim the Toolman Taylor with on every episode.
While the neighbourly banter was fun and friendly on the ‘90s sitcom, today, few of us look forward to a daily conversation with our neighbours as we’re trying to relax with our family in our backyards.
Forest within a city
If you’ve always dreamed of disappearing into a private backyard oasis, you’re not alone. George Gaffiero says it was the inspiration for one of his latest client projects.
“A forest within a city: that’s the theme,” he says, adding that the client’s cottage isn’t rural, nor remote. In fact, the client’s lot was within an Alliston neighbourhood, with neighbouring properties nearby.
But the clients had a vision, as did their architect, who designed the backyard.
From there, George, who co-owns Imagine Landscaping with his business partner Callan Rose, brought the design to life.
Imagine Landscaping is a professional full-service landscaping company, beautifying backyards for over 25 years with custom stone and interlock patios, retaining walls, fire pits, water features and more.
While the “forest in a city” backyard was created by an architect, George worked with the client to map out the design in the blank slate of a backyard and select the materials that would bring the design to life.
“We used white stone for the pathways, seating areas and pool surround,” he notes. “Everything was white to match the contemporary cottage design.”
Unilock experts
As an authorized contractor of Unilock Stone, Imagine Landscaping uses cutting-edge materials designed for strength and longevity. For decades Unilock has made a name for itself as a hardscaping industry leader. Their technologies, like Ultima and ColorFusion, have enhanced each paver’s strength, beauty, and stain resistance.
“With Unilock, we’re on the cutting edge of everything that happens in the industry, from advancements to insights, techniques to tech – we get it all.” This means their clients get the highest quality product, backed by a transferable lifetime guarantee, installed by skilled contractors with a pulse on what’s coming next.
Beneath the patio stones, they used an open base system that will improve water drainage and prevent shifting as the ground freezes and thaws.
Unlike other sub-layers, the open base system uses a clear stone that provides a level base with spaces in between each stone. “It prevents heaving as the ground freezes and thaws, regardless of how much rain or snow you experience,” says Callan.
“We’ve compared it to other systems; those built with an open base system are 90 percent less likely to need repairs even after years of use,” says George. “This type of system is really important in our region, especially when faced with harsh winters like the last one.”
While stonework is a pinnacle part of each backyard design, trees and foliage are critical to making the space feel peaceful and secluded. By leaving room for the greenery to grow and expand, they can ensure they will grow comfortably in the space.
“Today, the space feels so private and remote. It’s a private retreat that truly feels like a forest within a city.”
Individualized design
When it comes to designing your outdoor oasis, George suggests allowing your design to be led by how you like spending your time. If you love to cook with and for friends and family, a patio with an outdoor kitchen and fire pit may be perfect for you. However, if you have kids, consider a pool and hot tub, with large stone steps that make it easy to climb in and out.
“With the right elements and plantings, you can create a natural landscape that feels extremely private, even if you live in a suburb.”
However, the most important choice you’ll make is who you hire to build it. Unlike some larger landscape crews that boast their fast turnarounds and low-cost quotes, Imagine Landscaping has built a strong reputation for having a small, highly skilled team built on quality and trust.
“For us, it’s all about quality and trust.” They offer the highest quality product and communicate with clients every step of the way so there are no surprises. “From timelines to budgets, we have you covered as we create a personal escape in your backyard.”
To create your outdoor oasis, start with a free quote. “Let’s get in touch and discuss your next project together.”
TEXT SHELANNE AUGUSTINE
PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
