Glenrose

Urban Front | Backyard

After a lengthy renovation, the owners of this midtown Toronto home wanted a garden that felt like a natural and informal retreat. For the front, we created a courtyard-like setting, planting amelanchier, oak leaf hydrangea, grasses and astrantia in a raised metal planter. Combining varying shades of green and texture, the effect is both modern and a little wild.

The backyard was designed as a natural extension of the inside, intentionally minimal and simple. The focal point is a long lean lap pool surrounded by a lush hedge of tall beech trees with green on green plantings. A modern pool house with an integrated sauna and change room sit adjacent to the pool. A restrained use of materials, thermal ash, stone, and steel, provide a sense of timelessness and understated calm to this city oasis.

DESIGN: GLD
CONTRACTOR: METHOD HOMES
PHOTOGRAPHY: PATRICK BILLER