Garden Makeover: Kitsilano Heritage House

Before Anne Talbot-Kelly Garden Design went to work reclaiming them, the gardens of this 1912 Kitsilano heritage house were completely overgrown.

Before

The front yard lacked character and purpose, and the split-level backyard, with poorly maintained grass and a dank, mossy and cramped patio, was only accessible from the lane.

The side of the property now has a meandering flagstone pathway that connects front and backyards.

A large cedar tree that was leaning dangerously towards the house was removed from the front yard, along with electrical wires.

A collection of old-fashioned perennials, new grasses, trees and shrubs were added, giving the front of the house a welcoming feel.

Plans for a garage and extension of the back deck left little room for the design team to create a substantial back garden.

The remaining area was two-thirds in the shade and on different levels – the bottom level mainly under the new deck. Lowering the patio provided 15 cm (6 in.) of extra headroom and the homeowner now has a cool, shady and relaxing seating area.

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