Transforming a Corner Lot in Aurora: A Custom Landscaping Journey

Project Background

This project is located on a corner lot in Aurora, Ontario. Here, the driveway and the front entrance face two different streets. With a noticeable grade change and the front door set far from the driveway, a conventional straight entry route was not possible. Instead, this challenge became an opportunity to reimagine the circulation, materials, and spatial rhythm.

Entry Sequence: Structure and a Sense of Ceremony

After Photo: Front Walkway

The distance between the driveway and the front door created space for a more intentional and ceremonial approach. We selected dark gray porcelain pavers for the main walkway. This material offers a consistent tone, subtle reflectivity, and low maintenance, making it ideal for entry areas. On either side, neatly trimmed boxwood hedges emphasize structure and linearity while naturally guiding visitors toward the front porch.

Front Door Walkway

At the porch, several focal planting groups enhance the layered feel of arrival. They provide rhythm and visual interest.

Plants and Terrain: Structured Slope Planting

On the lawn beside the porch, we preserved two existing mature trees. These trees offer a sense of privacy and serve as natural visual anchors. Around them, we designed two slope planting beds that take advantage of the incline. This design allows the plants to face outward at a more favorable angle for street-level viewing.

Privacy Lawn

Rather than isolating the beds, a gentle curved layout connects them. This reinforces the continuity of movement from the driveway to the front entrance. Beneath the trees, layered plantings create a clean and ordered structure. To avoid monotony, we incorporated evergreen shrubs and Armour stones as accents. This strikes a balance between formal geometry and natural informality.

Curved Planting Bed

The Importance of Custom Landscaping

Custom landscaping is essential for creating unique outdoor spaces that reflect personal style. Each project presents its own set of challenges and opportunities. For us, this corner lot was no exception. We embraced the unique features of the property and transformed them into a cohesive design.

We understand that high-end landscaping is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about functionality. Our goal is to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also practical for everyday use. The thoughtful arrangement of plants and materials ensures that the landscape will thrive and be enjoyed for years to come.

Reflection

As our first built project in 2024, this design not only addressed the challenges of a corner lot and elevation change, but also set a positive tone for the rest of the year. During a revisit in 2025, we found the landscape maturing beautifully. The trees were growing fuller, and Incrediball hydrangeas were blooming in abundance. Paired with the deep-toned porcelain pavers and structured foundation planting, the front yard now feels even more cohesive, composed, and quietly confident over time.

In conclusion, we take pride in our ability to transform outdoor spaces into extraordinary landscapes. Our commitment to quality and attention to detail ensures that each project is a reflection of our clients' desires and the unique characteristics of their properties. We look forward to continuing our journey in creating stunning landscapes that enhance the beauty and functionality of outdoor living.

Junning Wang

Horvath Landscapes Inc.