Pearson

City Front | Backyard

Although this stately brick house is in an area of Toronto that boasts mature trees and plenty of greenery, its front and back gardens were virtually empty – two blank slates that were redesigned as leafy sanctuaries for the owner as well as pollinating bees and butterflies. 

Deciduous trees, evergreen hedges and native perennials offer a shifting landscape of seasonal colour, shade and density. Tall grasses are used to reframe key sightlines and make architectural features, like the income unit entrance, appear more discreet. To extend the home’s living space, the garden unfolds around multiple gathering zones, including a fire pit area and an oversized pergola with banquette-style seating. Many of the natural elements are encouraged to blend and grow together for a slightly untamed look, creating a refreshing bit of wilderness in the middle of the city.