Backyard Renovation with Pool and Privacy Solutions – Aurora

Site Background

The backyard of this property at Kemano Road, Aurora sits one level lower than the front yard and is defined by an extended deck area. A mature birch tree once occupied the center of the yard, which is enclosed by a chain-link fence. Due to the client’s request for a pool installation, the tree had to be removed. Overall, the site receives part shade, a condition that shaped both the layout and planting strategy.

Permit Preparation

Before any construction began, our first step was to ensure full compliance with municipal requirements. Within the month leading up to construction, we prepared and submitted applications for:

• Road Occupancy Permit

• Zoning Certificate

• Pool Enclosure Permit

• Hot Tub Permit

Navigating the permit process is a critical part of our responsibility. Our team has extensive experience not only in Aurora, but also in Newmarket, Toronto, Markham, and Richmond Hill. Whether clients need guidance on documentation or prefer us to handle the entire submission, we are equipped to assist.

Privacy Considerations

Privacy was one of the most important design challenges. With neighboring yards situated at similar elevations, the backyard was directly exposed to surrounding decks and views. To address this, we designed and built custom privacy screens along the rear and side property lines.

Newly Installed Privacy Screen

Our carpenter—experienced not only in landscape construction but also in broader building projects—handled multiple rounds of adjustments and redesigns to meet both site limitations and client expectations. The result was a screen system that not only secured privacy but also served as a clean, architectural backdrop for the backyard.

Pool Installation

For the pool, the client selected a Sirius model 12’x24’. As outlined in one of our previous blogs, the excavation and layout process was completed smoothly. With the support of 4–5 machines working simultaneously, we completed excavation, leveling, and all pre-installation requirements in just one day. The pool shell was successfully installed the following day.

Pool Installation in Progress

Patio and Hot Tub Layout

Given that the existing deck and pool already occupied much of the yard, careful planning was required to integrate a hot tub and create functional patio areas.

• A 12’x8’ raised deck was constructed beside the pool, expanding usable sp

  ace without interfering with the pool structure.

• The walkout area from the basement was paved with porcelain pavers, offering durability and a modern look.

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  Cream White Porcelain at Dawn

• In corner sections, artificial grass was installed. The quality of artificial turf has improved dramatically in recent years, providing a highly realistic appearance. In Canada’s climate—where winters are long and harsh—artificial grass offers a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to natural turf.

Planting Design

To soften the strong lines of the screens and provide seasonal interest, we introduced a layered planting strategy.

The planting design features a soft yet structured composition. Hydrangeas and Emerald Junipers are interwoven to create contrast in form and color, offering both seasonal interest and evergreen structure. In the foreground, Japanese grass adds fine texture and movement, bringing a natural rhythm to the layout. On the side, a Bloodgood Japanese Maple introduces a striking focal point with its deep red foliage, balancing the overall palette with warmth and elegance.

This thoughtful planting plan brought balance to the yard, ensuring that the structural elements—pool, deck, and screens—were complemented by vibrant, natural greenery.

Conclusion

This project demonstrates how a small backyard can be transformed into a functional and private retreat. By carefully managing the permit process, addressing privacy concerns with custom screens, and optimizing space for a pool, hot tub, and multiple patios, we delivered a backyard that balances relaxation, beauty, and compliance. The planting design further enhanced the overall atmosphere, turning what was once an exposed and underutilized yard into a welcoming outdoor living space tailored to the client’s lifestyle.