Custom Home Landscape Design–Build in Toronto

Hillhurst Blvd Toronto

Project Overview

The Hillhurst Boulevard project was a full front, side, and backyard landscape design–build completed in Toronto alongside the construction of a multi-million-dollar custom home.

The clients had previously worked with Horvath Landscapes on a commercial property and asked us to review their residential landscape plans to determine whether we could execute the project to the level of detail they expected. This project required extensive coordination, multiple site returns, and precise sequencing as the home was constructed in stages.

Horvath Landscaping front yard landscape with a paved walkway beside a mulched planting bed featuring young ornamental trees, clipped shrubs, and a freshly edged lawn in front of a stone home.

Site Conditions and Constraints

This project took place during an active custom home build. Landscape work could not proceed continuously and instead had to be coordinated around construction milestones set by the client and builder.

Key constraints included:

A fully active construction site over an extended period
Multiple pauses and remobilizations unrelated to landscaping
Very high client expectations for precision and finish quality
Deep basement window wells (approximately five feet)
A dense urban environment requiring careful water management

The site began as a full construction zone and required continuous organization, cleanup, and protection of completed work.

Before Pictures

Drainage and Subsurface Infrastructure

One of the most technically demanding aspects of the Hillhurst project was the amount of drainage required to make the site function correctly in an urban setting with neighbouring properties on all sides.

This was not typical residential drainage.

The project required:

Two large French drain systems at the front of the property
One large French drain system at the rear
Each excavated to approximately four feet deep

To manage water volume and control release, we installed modular subsurface water storage systems (AquaBlox-style structural void modules). These systems create underground storage zones that temporarily hold water and allow it to disperse gradually into the surrounding soil.

Because these systems introduce void space below grade, sequencing was critical. Drainage infrastructure had to be installed early, then carefully built over and around to ensure:

Finished grades would not settle
Hardscape above remained stable
Water moved away from the home and neighbouring properties

This level of drainage coordination is uncommon for residential landscapes, but was essential for long-term performance on this site.

Design Approach

Landscape design for the property was initiated by another firm and then refined to suit site conditions, sequencing realities, and client expectations.

The goal was a low-maintenance, highly durable landscape that matched the architectural quality of the home without unnecessary ornamentation. Clean lines, disciplined material choices, and strong masonry detailing were prioritized.

The front landscape establishes a formal arrival, while the side and backyard spaces integrate circulation, water features, and outdoor living without visual clutter.

Landscape Design-Build

Construction and Execution

The scope of work included:

A hydronic (boiler-heated) concrete driveway and front walkway, extending into the side yard
Construction of the front porch and entry steps, finished with tile and rebated antique black stone coping and steps
Basement access steps and tiled basement floor areas
Installation of a swim spa in the backyard
Construction of an elaborate deck (permit required)
Two masonry water features — one at the front with integrated house numbering, and one at the rear
Masonry walls, edging, and architectural stonework
All new planting throughout the property
Integrated landscape lighting

Base preparation for the heated driveway system was completed early and required precise coordination so heating components and concrete placement could proceed without disruption.

Side-yard hardscape was constructed on concrete to support durability and drainage requirements. Planting and lighting were completed as final phases once major construction work had concluded.

Materials, Stonework, and Follow-Through

Material selection emphasized performance and longevity:

Porcelain surfaces for durability and ease of maintenance
Unilock Beacon Hill Smooth pavers for consistent tone and texture
Antique black stone for steps and coping to visually anchor the entry
Precision masonry integrated with the home’s architecture

An important material note involved the black granite stair treads. Although sold as black granite, the stone behaved like a limestone when exposed to acid during final cleaning. A small number of pieces were affected.

The clients were informed immediately. Due to late-season timing, replacement was scheduled for the following year. Horvath Landscapes returned as promised, replaced the affected pieces, and completed additional stone facing improvements at no additional charge to ensure the final result met expectations.

This follow-through is noted intentionally, as it reflects how the company stands behind its work.

Final Outcome

Functionally, the completed landscape integrates seamlessly with the custom home. The heated driveway improves winter usability, drainage performs as intended, and the deck and swim spa provide usable outdoor living without visual overload.

Visually, the landscape reinforces the scale and character of the residence. Masonry elements provide structure, planting has matured well, and the water features add subtle movement without dominating the space.

The clients continue to express strong appreciation for the result, and the project remains a standout example of disciplined, phased execution.