2011 CNLA Newsbrief | Special Awards Edition

OF

Excellence

NATIONAL AWARDS LANDSCAPE sponsored by

celebrating

excellence landscape industry

certified

An initiative of Landscape Canada

excellence 2011

OF

celebrating

Excellence

NATIONAL AWARDS LANDSCAPE sponsored by

Recognizing excellence in the green industry The National Awards of Landscape Excellence recognizes the first-class accomplishments of our members within the industry. The Garden Centres Inspection Award creates benchmarks for garden centres to achieve. Each garden centre receives a total score for their inspection and it is this score that determines the winner.

The Growers Canada Award was created because the need was recognized for a Canadian program to promote an award of excellence in horticultural production domestically and internationally.

In the Landscape Contruction/Installation and Landscape Maintenance categories of the National Awards of Landscape Excellence, members from across the country submit their best work and compete with their peers for recognition within their own provincial associations. Members must then be entered by their association to compete nationally. Winners use this national recognition as a marketing opportunity for growing their business.

There are two categories in the National Awards of Landscape Excellence program; landscape construction/installation and landscape maintenance, generously sponsored by Caterpillar and John Deere. A provincial association may only submit three entries per category, for a total of six entrants; making a national award entrant part of a very select group.

An initiative of Landscape Canada A special thanks to the following people who made the event a success: - Co-Master of Ceremonies: Brian Minter, President of Minter Gardens and Country Garden Ltd., BC. - Special keynote speakers: Honourable Ben Stewart, BC Minister of Agriculture and Dr. Michael Brownbridge, Research Director, Horticultural Production Systems, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, ON. - The National Awards of Landscape Excellence Judging Team for Landscape Construction/Installation and Landscape Maintenance: Ruth Olde, CLD, Blasig Landscape Design and Construction, BC, Betty Cunnin, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, BC, Jeff McMann, CLT, Corporation of the Town of Markham, ON, Ken Rech, Ken Rech Landscape Architects, MB, Joe Bidermann, CLT, CLD, Joe Bidermann Landscaping Design, NS, Jeannette French, CLP, Daisy Design, NL, Don Chase, CLD, ChaseRD, ON, John van Roessel, CLT, CLP, JVR Landcape (2006) Inc., AB - The West Coast Tropical Display Team: Bruce Hunter, CLT, CLD, CLP, Chair, CNLA Landscape Canada Committee, Hunter Landscape Design Ltd. and Selections Nursery Supply Ltd; Jeff Sakari, CLT, The Green Man Landscape Services and his staff: Soloman Ramirez and Philip Snow; George and Michael Kato, Kato’s Nursery Ltd.; Cable Baker CLT, CLP, RCB Garden Services; Colleen MacDonald, Sage Green Projects Inc. - Barb Nelson, BCLNA and Karen deJong, BCLNA. - Eve Tigwell, Consultancy for the Garden Centres Inspection Award.

- Our sincere thanks to the Grower of the Year judging panel for undertaking this challenging task; Bob Osborne, Corn Hill Nursery, NB; Paul Jensen, Jenco International, QC; George Joao, FloraTech, ON; Christine Murray, Alberta Innovates, AB; Carol Barnett, Kwantlen College, BC. Participating associations

2

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Garden Centres Canada Inspection Program Award of Excellence

Sheridan Nurseries ONTARIO

Unionville store

The Garden Centres Canada committee represents over 450 garden centre members across Canada. The inspection program creates benchmarks for garden centres to achieve, and in doing so, elevates the professionalism and customer service standards of participating garden centres across the country.

Here are the 17 garden centre members who participated in the program: • Murrays Horticultural Services Ltd. - Portugal Cove, NL • Bickerstaffe Farms & Nurseries Ltd. - Portugal Cove/St. Phillips, NL • O’Neill’s Gardenland - Spaniards Bay, NL • Blomidon Nurseries - Wolfville, NS

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

MacArthur’s Nursery - Moncton, NB Jewell’s Country Market - York, PEI Sheridan Nurseries - Missisauga, ON Sheridan Nurseries - Unionville, ON Sheridan Nurseries - Whitby, ON Canadale Nurseries Ltd. - St. Thomas, ON Taylor Nursery - Milton, ON Botanix Oxford Insta-Shade Inc - Burgessville, ON Johnstons Greenhouse - Peterborough, ON Cole’s Florist Inc. - Grimsby, ON Humber Nurseries Ltd. - Brampton, ON Countryside Landscapes & Garden Centre - Dewinton, AB Spruce it up Garden Centre - Calgary, AB

Anthony O’Neill, Garden Centres Canada Chair, presents Scott Bailllie, Store Manager, Sheridan Nurseries, Unionville, ON with the Garden Centres Inspection Award.

3

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Garden Centres Canada Inspection Program Award of Excellence

MacArthur’s Nursery - Moncton, NB

Spruce it up Garden Centre - Calgary, AB

Bickerstaffe Farms & Nurseries Ltd. - Portugal Cove/St. Phillips, NL

Cole’s Florist Inc. - Grimsby, ON

Humber Nurseries Ltd. - Brampton, ON

Botanix Oxford Insta-Shade Inc - Burgessville, ON

An initiative of Landscape Canada

Countryside Landscapes & Garden Centre - Dewinton, AB

Blomidon Nurseries - Wolfville, NS

O’Neill’s Gardenland - Spaniards Bay, NL

Jewell’s Country Market - York, PEI

Johnstons Greenhouse - Peterborough, ON

Cole’s Florist Inc. - Grimsby, ON

Taylor Nursery - Milton, ON Sheridan Nurseries - Whitby, ON

4

Sheridan Nurseries - Missisauga, ON Canadale Nurseries Ltd. - St. Thomas, ON

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

RBC Grower of the Year

Bylands Nurseries Ltd. BRITISH COLUMBIA

Nursery Excellence

Growers Canada is very pleased to announce Bylands Nurseries of Kelowna, BC as the recipient of the first ever RBC Grower of the Year Award. Notes Growers Canada chair Owen Vanstone, “Bylands Nurseries exceeded the judges’ expectations in each of the five categories, including financial performance, production innovation, marketing, environmental standards and human resources management, and we are thrilled to be able to present them with this award.”

Melanie Hill, RBC Regional Sales Manager Central Canada, presents the RBC Grower of the Year Award to Maria, Michael and John Byland.

5

Growers of both field and container product on various farms totaling over 400 acres in the BC interior, Bylands Nurseries boasts a product line of over 3,000 items, with up to three million plants under production at any given time. Innovation is the key to success in all areas of production, shipping and administration. Environmental sustainability is clearly a focus for this nursery grower, with water conservation, large scale composting and a fully implemented Integrated

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Grower of the Year

Pest Management Program being only a few illustrations of their environmental commitment. Their exemplary human resources policy includes among other things a comprehensive safety policy, an extended health and dental plan and a progressive continuing education policy. Each of the judges commented on the employee access to a physiotherapist who visits the company once every two weeks! From Byland’s perspective, this is not just good for employees, it’s also good for their own bottom line, as workers’ compensation rates have decreased by an impressive 30 percent!

As recipients of the CNLA’s RBC Grower of the Year Award, Bylands Nurseries have been automatically entered into

the International Ornamental Horticultural Producers awards program. The top five entries will receive airfare and accommodation for two to attend the international awards presentation, which will be held this coming fall in Xi’an, China.

initiative oftuned Landscape Owen Vanstone invites allAn growers to “stay for goodCanada news,” and to participate in the next CNLA Grower of the Year Award. The winner will receive a trip for two to the next NALE presentation, scheduled for Halifax in February, 2012.

Winkelmolen Nurseries Ltd. ONTARIO

Honourable Mention A close contender for the Grower of the Year was Winkelmolen Nurseries of Lynden, Ontario.

Field growers of trees and shrubs for the wholesale marketplace, WInkelmolen Nurseries have experienced continual growth in their 35 years. Much of the company’s success can be attributed to their commitment to innovation in all areas of production. The judges also awarded high marks for environmental stewardship and their outstanding human resource’s policy.

6

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

Looking to strengthen your employee loyalty?

Nearly 70% of employees say financial advice and a retirement plan most influence their loyalty to their employer.* An RBC速 Group Savings Plan is a flexible, cost-effective way to provide benefits to your employees. A dedicated investment professional will help to establish the right savings plan for them.

RBC can help implement a Group Savings Plan that works for your business. Please call us at 1-877-633-2425 or visit www.rbcgfs.com.

Ask us how a Group Savings Plan can help.

Financial planning services and investment advice are provided by Royal Mutual Funds Inc., a member company under RBC Wealth Management. Royal Mutual Funds Inc., RBC Global Asset Management Inc., Royal Bank of Canada, and RBC Dexia Investor Services Trust are separate corporate entities, which are affiliated. Royal Mutual Funds Inc. is licensed as a financial services firm in the province of Quebec. 速

Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. * MetLife 8th annual Study of Employee Benefits Trends. VPS61400

celebrating

excellence 2011

John Deere Award of Excellence for Landscape Maintenance

The Cultivated Garden ONTARIO

Crisp & Clean Colours An initiative of Landscape Canada

The Crisp & Clean Colours theme of the project aligned with the detailed attention to colour, texture and contrast in the selection of perennials, shrubs and ground covers.

Emphasis was placed on perennials that flower in spring and fall, as the client is away frequently throughout the summer. The turf is immaculately maintained and the planting bed edges are crisp and clean.

Planted with a large assortment of colourful herbaceous perennials, the main focal point of the back garden is a large hill in the center.

The tulip bulbs are treated as annuals to maximize the spring display. Large containers stand at attention at the front of house. New plantings for all four seasons are designed in keeping with the balance and scale of both the container and house. The borders are routinely maintained to ensure no weed competition and plant care. Maintaining the flowering shrubs and perennials for cutting to bring Jeremy Vandehaar (right), Territory Manager, John Deere Ltd., presents the flowers indoors was important to the client.

John Deere Award of Excellence to Barbara Rosenweig, The Cultivated Garden for ‘Crisp and Clean Colours

8

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

“ Right off the bat, we bought ten ZTrak PRO™ 900s. Then we bought three more.

Why? The Mulch-On-Demand™ deck.

Nothing else compares.”

K.C. Fisher President The Landcare Group Tampa, Florida

To see more of what K.C. has to say about the ZTrak 900, go to www.JohnDeere.com/mowpro

The ZTrak PRO 900 Series Landscape pros like K.C. know rsthand the time savings they get with a ZTrak PRO 900 with Mulch-On-Demand deck. You can switch instantly from mulching to side-discharging, then back to mulching without ever leaving your seat. And there are the other legendary benets of a ZTrak PRO 900: ease of use, superior controllability, and exceptional mowing performance.

K.C. Fisher accepts nothing less than the ZTrak PRO 900 for his business.

Ask your local dealer what it can do for yours.

Accept Nothing Less

48016

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Maintenance

Rivers Edge Nursery MANITOBA

Brookside Cemetary This maintenance project focused on the Commonwealth War Graves and the Stone of Remembrance ‘Island’ in Winnipeg. The Stone of Remembrance required traditional and formal plantings. The turf had to be neatly abutting the monument, and trimmed precisely at the bed edges and curbs. The contract requested that perennial ornamental grasses be planted between the headstones and complemented with formal perennials and annuals, with the restriction that they not interfere with the headstone inscriptions. It was mandatory that all turf, beds, curb and gutter areas be kept free of leaves, clippings, weeds and debris. After trimming and mowing, the headstones had to be brushed to remove clippings and any “splash up” of soil after a rain. What did the Commonwealth War Graves Commission say about the maintenance on this project? “Outstanding, you’ve clearly set the bar high!”

An initiative of Landscape Canada

Homescapes

Evergreen Ridge Phase 1 Storm Pond

ALBERTA

A functional natural environment in a residential setting was the objective of this maintenance project. To keep it looking good, weekly maintenance during spring, summer and fall was required. Although the pond has a natural low maintenance appearance, there was a lot of work that went into making it look that natural! Only selective pruning was performed on the trees and shrubs to keep them in their natural form to suit the site. Biggest challenge?

Weed control adjacent to the pond, in the shrub borders, around the sandstone boulders and keeping rogues out of the native grass areas. Due to the close proximity of water, all weeding was done by hand. The expansive lawn area was fertilized seasonally and mowed weekly. The large number of people who visit the site often slowed the mowing and trimming maintenance, but with such a beautiful setting, it gave everyone a chance to enjoy the view!

10

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Maintenance

Soundgarden Landscape & Design BRITISH COLUMBIA

McDougall Residence This 1-acre property is located in the beautiful Pemberton Valley. The front entrance is well appointed with tree, shrub and perennial plantings.

Spacious, functional and colourful, your eyes continue from the landscape to the mountains, as if it’s all one in the same. Seasonal planters and hanging baskets adorn the back patio. Organic fertilizers and hand weeding keep the lawn in pristine condition. This property is located in the flood plain and the yard was brought up to provide the illusion that the property is at ground level.

Perennial beds provide colour, texture and contrast in both the back and front landscapes. All garden debris and leaves are composted and returned to the beds. The client wanted a country feel with open space that encouraged natural features, such as the earthen pond and native vegetation where possible.

The plantings clearly blend with the house and the surrounding area.

landscape industry

certified

Price Landscaping Services NEW BRUNSWICK

Savoie Residence

landscape industry

certified

11

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

This residential project is adjacent to the beautiful Fox Creek Golf Course. The maintenance crews take great pride in perfecting the mowing pattern on the front lawn, as it has a prominent view from the street. The flowerbeds that frame the house and accent the natural stonewall in the back are all kept deadheaded and weed-free. Bed edges are kept sharp and uniform. Since the turf is a popular play area for the children, no herbicides are applied. A retaining wall planting complements the natural setting of the surrounding woods and the feeling the customer wanted to have for their landscape.

Attention to detail is given to maintaining the wide variety perennials, shrubs and vines, while still keeping their natural shape and form.

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Maintenance

Price Landscaping Services

NEW BRUNSWICK

Wawanesa Insurance This highly visible commercial property is close to the centre of Moncton. Crews must always be alert for people entering and exiting the building, and adjust maintenance activities to ensure the safety of pedestrians and customers. All lawn and shrub care is completed on weekends to avoid noise interruption during business hours. Special care and attention is given to all aspects of property maintenance, from lawn maintenance to hedge shearing and perennial maintenance.

From the initial landscape installation 20 years ago, Wawanesa Insurance has been a loyal client ever since.

landscape industry

certified

An initiative of Landscape Canada

Boffo Landscaping Inc. ONTARIO

The Estate Residence On a multi-million dollar estate in the exclusive residential “Magna Estates”, the highest quality of maintenance and service is expected. Plants are pruned in either a formal form or left natural and exotic. The selection of shrubs and perennials accommodate the combination of pruning styles. Weeding, deadheading, mowing and a finished property completely free of clippings, commands several hours of work with each weekly maintenance visit. Fine lines, weed free turf, flawless edges — all examples of the maintenance standards of this property.

The customer invests in the landscape to get the look they desire: a diversity of plant texture with season long colour.

12

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Maintenance

International Landscaping Inc.

ONTARIO

Downtown Details Festive colour and style frame the entrance of this high-rise commercial building. All maintenance during business hours must be done with nonmechanical tools to eliminate noise pollution. The containers take on a new theme each season, from radiant exotic summer tropicals to winter boughs and berries. Water-retention products are used and planters are positioned away from the direct sunlight and harsh winds to reduce watering frequency. Planters feature eye-catching displays of hues and textures, adding a unique, trendy style in the downtown landscape. The extensive perennial and container gardens require weekly soil cultivation and hand watering. Irrigation is severely restricted in compliance with LEED-EB guidelines. Mature trees receive a deep-root feeding every spring and this overview illustrates the attention to detail given to this downtown project.

landscape industry

certified

13

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Caterpillar Award of Excellence for Landscape Construction/Installation

Tumber & Associates ONTARIO

Home is where the Heart is An initiative of Landscape Canada

landscape industry

certified

Extensive grade modulations and spading in mature trees began the evolution into a totally private backyard perfect for entertaining: a large terraced area, inset pool and many multilevel landscape and cooking areas. The elaborate pool cabaña, bronze statue and reflecting pool were all formally placed in the sight-line from the patio doors. The natural stone BBQ island is one of three outdoor cooking stations, especially built for the client. From the cedar gazebo, the extensive water feature works its way through four separate ponds and watercourses that merge incorporating new technology to alter the water flow and show. A waterfall cascades over the edge of the underground grotto that houses the pizza oven. The seated bronze figure is mounted in the stream with “her” feet dangling in the water. A wide diversity of site-appropriate plants accompany the stunning and creative use of natural stone, wood and water.

Stepping down from the main terrace is the open fire pit area with a knee wall, which also serves as a seating area. An outdoor Jason Becker, Marketing Representative, café area sits atop a massive cantilevered stone deck over the Caterpillar presents the Caterpillar Award largest pond. Outdoor cooking and entertaining are truly the of Excellence to Randy Tumber, Tumber heart of this home and gardens. & Associates ‘Home is Where the Heart is’.

14

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

Today, Tomorrow…and all The years To come.

Industry-leading productivity and performance is built into every Cat machine. You’ll feel it when you’re in the driver’s seat.

You’ll hear it from unbiased experts. And you’ll see it on your bottom line.

Just check out the new Cat B3 Series Skid Steer, Multi Terrain and Compact Track Loaders. With increased power and torque, plus up to 33% better fuel economy, you’ll get more work done faster, and lower your operating costs too. In addition to saving you money every job, Cat machines also have higher resale value. Add it up, and you’ll see that Caterpillar delivers the lowest cost of ownership. That’s the difference between price…and value.

special discounTs for cnla members! save up to $2,000 on a variety of new cat machines. for details, visit the caterpillar member benefits section at www.canadanursery.com!

© 2010 Caterpillar Inc. All rights reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, SAFETY.CAT.COM, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow” and the “Power Edge” trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Construction/Installation

Alpha Better Landscaping Inc.

ALBERTA

Evergreen Ridge Phase 3 Storm Pond This landscape installation around the perimeter of two major storm ponds provides the nearby residents with a great view and environmental education for the community. Over 28,000 aquatic plugs, including sedges and rushes, were incorporated into the water’s edge.

Canada geese and other birds favoured the new plantings, however the plants prevailed! Native willow and dogwood soften the waters edge and add seasonal colour and texture. 700 face square meters of sandstone walls bring a solid clean look to the borders. The boulders were carefully selected on size and appearance and placed aesthetically to ensure a proper fit and a natural flowing look. Upland and wetland native seed mixes match and soften the natural setting. Spruce, birch, poplar, aspen and larch provide shelter and suit the site. The result: a natural setting in the urban environment, frequented by nature lovers.

An initiative of Landscape Canada

landscape industry

certified

Oriole Landscaping Ltd. ONTARIO

Squared Away

landscape industry

certified

16

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

Strong straight lines punctuate this project. Walkways, patios, pool and plantings zig zag into every usable space for a maximum impact. The framed horizontal screening creates a backdrop and panel supports for planting. Since the grade could not be altered beneath the trees, the pool and hot tub were placed one step above the grade of the patio, and the pool coping was adapted. The water feature, centered to the doorway of the home, also creates a focal point from indoors.

The bold lines of the hardscape and pool area are softened with lush foliage texture and colour. The pool is elongated by the linear pieces of stone that are set perpendicular to the coping, interjecting distinct parallels into the garden. Planting beds and walkways are defined with Indiana limestone to match the pool coping. The main patio showcases a lounge, dining area and an outdoor cooking station, complete with a custom, polished concrete countertop, makes this a stunning backyard paradise. sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Construction/Installation

Price Landscaping Services

NEW BRUNSWICK

Centennial Park Situated in the centre of Moncton, this 230 acres of scenic parkland was in need of a new landscape and upgraded playground equipment. All existing play equipment was removed and the total area was regraded to improve drainage. A new drainage system had to be connected into an existing system, that first needed to be repaired, and new sod installed. As with any municipal area, keeping eager residents off the site was a challenge, in addition to keeping new plantings healthy and respected by the community. This park was transformed in to a safer, more userfriendly beautiful green space. With the new asphalt pathway for wheelchair accessibility and new playground equipment, it offers a favourite recreation site for local residents and visitors.

landscape industry

certified

Krol Construction BRITISH COLUMBIA

The Eppler Residence This L-shaped backyard presented numerous design challenges: limited accessibility, a small space dominated by a two-car garage and a site that needed to be screened from neighbours.

Trees for privacy, a representational “creek-bed” rock feature and central plantings mimicking running water and marginal aquatics, clearly offset the dominance of the garage. Small “Roman Pave” was installed for the central patio space, and into the hot tub area, resulting in unity at ground level. The back of the home was a blank canvas and needed plants for screening, colour and renovations to accommodate the hot tub. A more lush, inviting look transformed this space, complete with an automatic irrigation system. The lattice screen and arbour frames and conceals the hot tub area, supports vines and hanging baskets, and completely hides the garage from view. The strategically placed hardscape and softscape features gave the client a new stylized private outdoor living and entertaining space.

17

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Construction/Installation

Lemkey Landscape Design

MANITOBA

The Johnson Residence This riverbank site needed permit approval for all construction components, in compliance with riverbank conservation authorities. The client wanted a backyard retreat, pool, spa, and multifunctional entertainment areas. A granite counter on two barkman pillars, accompanied by the bar stools were added, abutting the spa. Integrating terraces of roman pisa block and plantings created a division of space and function along the slope. The raised planter on the main level screens the pool from the lower level and the automatic pool cover hides the pool when not in use. The 20 x 40 pool boasts a stunning water feature with five sheer decents. The artificial putting green and sand trap required proper drainage to comply with nearby river permit restrictions. A three-season cabana, finished in pine, encloses all of the immensities. The end result: a backyard retreat with five functional rooms and relatively low maintenance.

An initiative of Landscape Canada

JVR Landscape Inc. ALBERTA

The Boyle Residence

landscape industry

certified

18

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

The objective was to contour a sloped grass field, without the use of retaining walls, incorporate a play area for grandchildren and have the renovations completed for a family wedding. A rundle flagstone path from the side gate slopes and winds through the arbour. An upright bolder is the focal point at the intersection of three pathways leading to different parts of the yard.

Swedish aspen provides screening for the upper deck and hot tub. The new gazebo was placed to overlook the re-graded and level lawn area and is surrounded with plants chosen for colour and year-round interest. The open turf and patio enhance the use of this area for entertaining and incorporates the requested play area. The site was transformed into a into a beautiful yard with a welcoming grand entrance. sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Construction/Installation

Ayles Natural Landscaping

NEW BRUNSWICK

The Brushett Front Entrance The client wanted a complete makeover for their front entrance. It was very dated and required a more convenient access to the home. The new curvilinear design softened the look and made the front entrance more inviting. A variety of complimentary hardscape materials were used in the retaining wall, stairs and walkway and the choice of plants tied in the warm earthy tones of the pavers. A custom wrought iron railing was installed, and natural stone was placed to anchor the planting area at street level. The softscape incorporated perennials that provide colour and interest throughout the seasons.

landscape industry

certified

O’Pray Pool Project

landscape industry

certified

19

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

A blank canvas was about to be transformed. The yard was a high-use area for active young children, but it was tired and needed a new life. Limited access to the site was an installation challenge.

What a dramatic transformation!

The wrought iron fence was designed and installed to delineate two areas: pool and playground. The gate on the upper level controlled access to the pool. The flagpole in the back corner signaled: ‘come on over for a swim’, if the flag was up, and when it was not: ‘family day only’. The pool became a popular neighbourhood aquatic centre.

The rear fence was designed to conceal the view from adjacent homes and restrict access. The herbaceous and woody plants added a splash of additional colour. With the pool, the children’s safety was paramount and the wrought iron fence and gate provided the security without closing in the view. Together, the softscape and hardscape features created the right balance for a neighbourhood attraction and a private oasis.

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Construction/Installation

International Landscaping Inc.

ONTARIO

The Formal Finish This high-end residential project was highlighted with a formal Roman style pool which created an axis from the main interior living area to the back of the property. A backdrop was created at the end by spading in 20 large trees that also framed a sculptural bronze fountain. The night lighting provided yet another spectacular view. An outdoor living space was created for entertaining which included a split-level dining and outdoor kitchen area. A spectacular ‘radiused’ spa connected the upper lounging area to the pool with a polished black, granite spill-over water element cascading to the pool level via a terrace canal. This project was inspired by a wedding ceremony that was taking place at the completion of the project. The new landscape provided a picture perfect setting.

An initiative of Landscape Canada landscape industry

certified

Topia QUEBEC

Biodiversity in the Urban Context Based on principles of sustainable development, the innovative feature of this project is the integration of wetland gardens for natural water filtration for the pool. All water filtration is performed, without chemicals, by microorganisms and aquatic plants in a series of mini water purification systems. Material recuperation, ecology and energy reduction is balanced with aesthetic qualities and simplicity of maintenance. The project replicates a natural filtration process, complete with introduced wetland flora and fauna in a 800 sq foot property, located in the heart of Montreal. It combines aesthetic appeal and functionality in a modern and contemporary design.

The end result: a masterful combination of environment and style.

20

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Construction/Installation

Pacifica Landscape Works Inc.

BRITISH COLUMBIA

The West Coast Resort Starting as a blank slate of an expansive turf, the clients were looking for a true West Coast Contemporary resortstyle setting to entertain large groups of family and friends.

The new landscape included: a free form curvilinear swimming pool, with large specimen boulders inset around the perimeter, a waterfall, outdoor kitchen, fire-pit, and a large patio space to comfortably host large gatherings. A waterfall cascades down the hill and under the curved viewing bridge before plummeting into the pool below. Dramatic choice of poolside plants provides lush softness, while hardy palms provide an exotic touch. The curvilinear theme is carried throughout in the circular raised viewing platform cantilevered over the pool, furnishing a space for dining, lounging, and viewing. A curved outdoor kitchen and bar were constructed of natural Brohm stone with a black slate counter, and inlay of random glass tiles. A natural fire pit constructed out of basalt boulders was situated to take advantage of panoramic mountain views. The culmination of a year’s worth of work and infinite persistence to detail resulted in a truly captivating landscape. The homeowners now have their own personal paradise.

landscape industry

certified

White Rock Street Scape

landscape industry

certified

21

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

The streetscape next to this contemporary home was over grown, had a sloping grade towards the foundation and had zero curb appeal. The solution was strong features to break up the vertical expanse, adding visual interest. Mass plantings of ornamental grasses and perennials added an element of softness and curb appeal.

During the day, the series of architectural walls and translucent screens provide a backdrop for striking architectural foliage. Add a light breeze and you have a very dramatic nonstatic presentation. By night this comes alive with unique silhouetting effects. LED landscape lighting and coloured lighting was added, such that, when cast against the foliage, was transferred and magnified to fill the entire panel.

The reverse effect was used behind translucent screens to create unique silhouettes that appear to be projected or imprinted on the surface of the screens. This remarkable transformation, with its excellent use of architectural elements, bold colours, and layered plantings also earned a Communities in Bloom Award.

sponsored by:

celebrating

excellence 2011

Landscape Construction/Installation

Sawyer’s Trees & Landscapes

SASKATCHEWAN

The Boot/Week Residence This was a two-year project that posed a few challenges: house construction and landscaping were performed at the same time and all communication was done by email or cell phone, as the owners were out of the country.

All the plants came from local greenhouses and nurseries. The landscape was developed from the bank of the South Saskatchewan River to the street and involved clearing brush, old construction debris and leveling out the main area for the pool, lawn and second level below the walls and stairs. Pennsylvania Bluestone was installed for the pool decking, stepping-stones and raised patio. The cultured sill stone edged the planting beds, and Roman Pissa II retaining blocks were used for the wall and stairs between grade levels. Site access was an issue because of adjacent residences and the river. Another more private secluded area overlooking the river completed the project.

landscape industry

An initiative of Landscape Canada

certified

Year-Round Landscaping Inc. ALBERTA

The Foss Residence This home had to be reconstructed after a massive landslide.

Some materials were reused in the new landscape. Irrigation was prohibited due to the susceptibility of the slope to landslides. The new design complimented the surrounding panoramic view of the city and the client’s love for entertaining and being outdoors.

An outdoor kitchen was built to provide an area for entertaining. Boulders found during excavation were incorporated into site. Since water was not an option, a dry riverbed, with a small bridge and open screen, was installed to balance the elements and create the illusion of water. The hardscape materials were selected to match the style of the house. Rebuilt and renewed, the landscape came to life with a new look.

22

THE CNLA NATIONAL AWARDS OF LANDSCAPE EXCELLENCE

sponsored by:

www.canadanursery.com

An initiative of Landscape Canada