Front & Side Yard Design–Build Project in Aurora
Willow Farm
Project Overview
The Willow Farm project was a front and side yard design–build completed on a prominent corner property in Aurora. The work followed a home renovation, with the goal of correcting and refining the exterior landscape so it matched the updated architecture and delivered strong curb appeal from multiple street-facing angles.
The project focused on creating a clean, organized entry sequence, durable walkways, and a cohesive planting and lighting plan that would perform well over time.
Site Conditions and Constraints
As a corner lot, the property required careful consideration of both the front and side yard. Rather than treating these areas separately, the design approached them as one connected landscape visible from multiple directions.
Key site considerations included:
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High visibility from the street and sidewalk
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Multiple pedestrian approach angles
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Integration with an existing driveway
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Municipal coordination for work near the road
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Maintaining clean circulation across front and side zones
A road occupancy permit was required as part of the work, which was coordinated to allow efficient construction.
Before Pictures
Design Approach
The design emphasized clarity, repetition, and restraint. All primary walkways—front, side, and stepping stone paths—were constructed using porcelain tile to create a consistent visual language throughout the site.
Porcelain was selected not only for its appearance, but also for its performance. The material resists staining and remains easy to maintain, even in lighter tones, making it well suited to this particular location and exposure.
Vertical elements were introduced to anchor the entry and define the approach to the home. Pillars were constructed using a modern wall system with dove gray coping, paired with matching dove gray steps to reinforce continuity and structure.
Materials and Detailing
Material selection and detailing played a central role in this project:
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Porcelain tile was used for all walkways and stepping stones
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Thick 80 mm concrete pavers were used to define driveway borders
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Modern wall units formed the entry pillars
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Dove gray stone was used consistently for coping and steps
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Flamborough armour stone was incorporated to add natural texture and contrast
These materials were chosen to balance clean lines with natural elements, resulting in a landscape that feels refined without appearing overly rigid.
Construction and Execution
The project was executed with a high level of organization and efficiency, primarily by a one- to two-person crew. Precision layout, careful sequencing, and attention to detail allowed the work to progress smoothly without unnecessary disruption.
Additional work completed as part of the project included:
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New lawn installation across the majority of the front yard
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Construction of back walkways not visible in the front photos
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A retaining wall around an existing hot tub to allow it to be lowered into the ground
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A removable deck system around the hot tub to allow future servicing without demolition
Every element was built with long-term usability and serviceability in mind.
Planting and Lighting
Planting was designed to support structure and visual impact rather than overwhelm the space. The planting palette included:
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Boxwoods for low, formal structure
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Limelight hydrangea standards for vertical interest
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Grasses and supporting plant material for softness and movement
Landscape lighting was installed throughout both the front and side yard. Lighting was used to highlight walkways, planting, and entry features, ensuring the property reads clearly and confidently after dark.
Final Outcome
Functionally, the landscape now provides clear, durable circulation across the front and side of the property, with materials that remain clean and easy to maintain. Entry points are well defined, and all elements work together as one cohesive system.
Visually, the completed project delivers strong curb appeal from every angle. The combination of porcelain walkways, structured planting, and integrated lighting has resulted in a front yard that continues to draw positive attention from passersby and neighbours alike.
Services Featured in This Project
Project Location
Discussing a Similar Project
Front and side yard projects require careful coordination between materials, circulation, and visual impact—especially on corner properties. This project demonstrates how disciplined planning and precise execution can deliver a clean, long-lasting result.
If you are planning exterior improvements following a home renovation, we encourage you to reach out early to discuss approach and sequencing.