Fox Whyte Landscape Architecture & Design Inc. (FWLA) was engaged early in the design process to ensure a seamless connection between the new contemporary residence by AKB Architects and the landscape. For this large contemporary garden two formerly separate properties were merged. FWLA’s early involvement was critical in ensuring that the new enlarged property read as one space and addressed significant drainage issues on the wet site. Working closely with the architect and civil engineer FWLA lead the drainage design to ensure proper capture of the water on site while maintaining and minimizing any damage to the existing mature trees surrounding the property. Thoughtful grading of the site also ensured strong visual and physical connections between the house and gardens and definition of the various functional aspects of the site through changes in level and elegant transitions in grade.
The contemporary formal gardens, in this north Toronto site, frame and enhance the refined contemporary residence. The gardens provide plenty of recreational spaces for the clients’ four children, neatly incorporated into a distinguished garden with elegant, clean lines.
In the front garden a heated driveway and lawn double as a place to play basketball while a grove of Serviceberries, in a minimalist gravel paved area, provide privacy and visual scale to the large residence, as well as a quiet, yet dynamic, seasonal display.
Upon entering the house, a beautiful specimen Magnolia tree acts as a focal point drawing the visitor through the house to the back garden and connecting the interior and exterior living spaces. A limestone terrace complements the custom brick roof and leads into the main outdoor entertaining spaces. Due to the extensive use of glass in the architecture, organization of the landscape was critical in highlighting and extending views as well as screening undesirable views in what is still a very urban site with adjacent properties in close proximity.
Surrounded by existing mature plantings, and with the addition of contemporary new plantings, the back garden provides a lush and private oasis for this busy family. The main recreational areas, consisting of a large lawn and pool area, are visually and physically separated by recessing the spaces 18” below the main terrace and more formal entertaining area. A 42’ pool and negative edge spa, with a custom diving plinth and water feature, on axis with the dining room, are the focal point of the garden. Glass pool fencing visually disappears further enlarging this grand scale city garden while still providing safety for the owners’ young family.
Adjacent to the kitchen, on the main terrace, a bio-climatic pavilion provides ample space for entertaining and large family gatherings. Carefully considered and spare detailing, including solid stone benches and steps, reflect the minimalist nature of the residence.
Additional features of the garden include a custom built-in BBQ counter; an outdoor shower, tucked behind the cabana; a large lawn for sports play and a centrally located vegetable garden with espaliered pear trees along the pool fence.
