It's no secret that the North Shore is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, but the steep elevation gains that attract skiers, hikers and view-seekers to the area can pose a real challenge for homeowners.
"A lot of properties, we all know on the North Shore, are not very usable because of our slopes. We live in the mountains," says Donovan Lee Holland, president and owner of North Vancouver-based Holland Home Services.
For example, setting up an alfresco dining area or an inflatable kiddie pool may not be feasible for those residents whose front yards slant sharply toward the street.
To make a property more usable and functional, the first step is to level out the ground, says Holland. Retaining walls, which can be constructed out of a variety of stackable stones or landscape blocks, restrain soil between two different elevations. Holland says the pressure-bearing walls will not only make a property seem larger and more entertaining, they will also add value to the property when it comes time to sell.
Once a retaining system and stairs have been established, it's time to create an outdoor living space that will act as an extension of the home.
"Property prices are so expensive, so it's nice sometimes to add a little bit more square footage, or living square footage, in an outdoor atmosphere," says Holland.
Paving stones and decorative landscaping can help set off the boundaries of an outdoor living space from the rest of the yard. Holland says homeowners might also consider wiring accent lighting along pathways, adding a water feature to drown out traffic noise, or installing an outdoor fireplace for an extra cosy feeling. Meanwhile, wooden pergola structures (archways providing shaded walkways or sitting areas) can offer shade and added privacy from neighbours.
When it comes to overall landscape design, Holland recommends planting low-maintenance trees and greenery so homeowners can spend more time relaxing outside and less time doing yard maintenance. Evergreen shrubs and colourful perennials are usually safe bets.
"Then the property and the gardens look the same throughout the year, which is a really good thing, people love that. There aren't many people anymore that have time to do gardening," says Holland.
His low-maintenance approach to plants applies to stonework too. New jointing materials now available on the market prevent weeds from sprouting up between paving stones, and certain stone finishes will even repel stains.
Although a renovated yard space may include separated areas for adults and for children, Holland says it's important for the entire space to flow together cohesively. That may mean using a similar stone in the retaining wall and in the decorative pathways "and it looks like the landscape was all done at once," says Holland, adding that a good design will improve not only the look, but also the feel of a home.
"It becomes more functional, it becomes warmer, inviting for everybody."
