Vandenberg wins 2024 BCLNA Landscape Award of Excellence
Menu

Construction

cde850e810faa90a10ca631d90d8187d

Is a Landscape Worth the Investment?

, , , , , , , , ,

Having a great backyard offers you more than a place to play a game of catch or host epic barbecues with family and friends. A beautiful garden can feed your soul, relieve your stress, improve your health, protect the environment — and might even save you money.

Nature is good for us, plain and simple. 

But you don’t have to travel to a forest, hike up a mountain or even visit the local park — you can get all the benefits of nature by improving and beautifying the natural surroundings of your own backyard.

When it comes to the benefits of landscaping, there are three main areas I like to tell people about: physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and economic benefits.

house with rocky garden

Landscaping is good for your health!

When you live in a healthy environment, you not only feel healthier, you become healthier. Here are a few ways landscapes can affect your physical health:

  • Improves air quality — A healthy landscape produces oxygen and improves air quality by eliminating dust, smoke, and pollutants. A single tree can provide enough oxygen for a family of four!
  • Lowers blood pressure and reduces stress — Studies have shown that looking at plants and trees (even through a window) can lower blood pressure and levels of the “stress hormone” cortisol. High levels of cortisol have been linked to issues with learning and memory, weight gain and heart disease.
  • Reduces inflammation & boosts the immune system — being in nature encourages activity and reduces stress, both of which help reduce chronic inflammation. Being outside also boosts your immune system, making it easier for your body to fight off minor illnesses like colds and flu. Preliminary studies even suggest that hanging out in the backyard can stimulate your body to produce anticancer proteins! 
chairs and garden

Landscaping is good for your mind!

Whether you’re walking through the woods or enjoying a simple meal on the deck, being outside does more than just make you feel good — it’s actually good for your mental health.

  • Improves memory — multiple studies have shown that spending time in nature can improve short-term memory by 20% and has the same effect as meditating.
  • Provides peace and clarity — as humans, we have a deep connection with nature and being outdoors can elevate your mood and help relieve the symptoms of anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. 
  • Relieves stress — when you’re relaxed, it’s easier to focus and concentrate on difficult tasks and come up with creative solutions to problems. Having a relaxing space where you can spend time outdoors isn’t a luxury — it’s essential.
stairway to house

Landscaping is good for your wallet!

In addition to health and aesthetic benefits, creating and maintaining a beautiful landscape can have financial benefits as well.

  • Increases curb appeal & property value — A well-landscaped property can significantly add to its value, compared to property without any landscaping. Some sources claim that increase can be as high as 20 to 25 percent. Curb appeal is real — how a home looks from the road will affect whether someone wants to buy it or not —  your home’s first impression will set the tone for the rest of the tour.
  • Save on electric bills — If you’ve ever walked across a parking lot in midsummer, you know how hot asphalt and concrete can be. Lawns and gardens act as natural air conditioners — according to a Cornell University study, well-planned landscapes can reduce heating and air conditioning costs by 10 to 30 percent. 
  • Lower water bills —planting native species that need less water to thrive, using trees and shrubs to control erosion and adding mulch to your flower beds can all help reduce your water bills. 
patio with garden

Landscaping makes you feel good!

Having a beautiful yard — with lush green grass and abundant flower gardens — can give you a sense of pride and motivate you to get outside and get active!

Instead of staying indoors, you’ll find yourself drawn to the tranquility of your garden. The strength of your relationships will improve as well — nothing brings people together like a game of bocce ball on the lawn or sharing a meal on the patio.

Depending on your interests and desires, there’s no limit to your yard’s potential. You may even find your yard is your favourite place to be.

If you’re excited about creating a landscape to enjoy with the people you love, give us a call or fill in our online form.

At Vandenberg Landscapes we delight in bringing nature to you.

e5094edab8f88b2607d2efce5d2021d9

Common Drainage Issues & How to Fix Them

, , , , , , , , ,

flooded lawn


“When it rains, it pours” applies to a lot of problems in life.

Your landscape is not exempt. One of the most common issues in our clients’ landscapes is a lack of drainage, which means big puddles, bugs, unwanted wildlife, damage to your home and more!

The Lower Mainland receives, on average, 65% more rain than four other major Canadian cities combined. Don’t let that ruin your yard and stop you from enjoying the sunny days because of drainage issues.

Improper grading

Having a proper slope surrounding your house is very important particularly in our mountainous region. If you’re at the bottom of a steep slope or hill, the water could run down toward your home with disastrous consequences.

Improper grading means the slope around your house is ineffective at moving the water away from your home, causing damage to its foundation and leading to cracks and mold. The area surrounding your house should have at least a 5-degree downward slope to direct water away from the foundation.

mountains

Geographical features

Some regions are susceptible to poor drainage solely based on physical features like mountains and bogs. In our region, there are two types of issues we see:

Peat soil is essentially part of wetlands. It’s soil with little to no drainage at all. A great solution is to include rocks and gravel to your landscape by replacing sections of your lawn with gravel walkways. Water drains faster through gravel which helps drain the poor soil. 

If you have peat or boggy soil, consider creating a beautiful rock garden or gravel paths that use lots of gravel to help drainage.

Rocky landscapes and soil are a common occurrence in landscapes around our region. It can be difficult and costly to dig to build drainage systems with this type of landscape. 

At Vandenberg Landscapes, we bring in our own soil mix to ensure that the landscapes we build have proper drainage and good quality soil. This soil is created with 70% sand which helps water run through the soil and properly drain instead of becoming stagnant and saturated.

man in puddle

Excessive rain and flooding

Without proper drainage systems in place your property could quickly flood in heavy rains. This issue is common in hilly areas with groundwater runoff. The water will run down, flooding under the surface and can be hard to detect before damage like fungus and diseased plants occur on your property. Our most common drainage system solutions are:

  • Catch basins are installed at the lowest point of your property to collect rainwater and runoff. Catch basins are connected to a system of pipes that distribute the water away from your yard to the basin.
  • French drains, which consist of a trench that’s filled with gravel and has a pipe running through it. The purpose is to reroute the flow of water away from an area towards a basin.
  • Dry wells are used at the end of your drainage system. Dry wells are holes with gravel that act like a filter while the water is dispersed deep underground.

Get back to enjoying your landscape

The first step to fixing any drainage issue is to understand how to control the water. Start by asking yourself if your drainage issue needs to have water rerouted entirely or if you need a design solution that helps soil absorb and drain the water. Here at Vandenberg Landscapes, we have plenty of solutions and would be happy to help you. You can schedule a consultation with us to see how we can help.

d31d86289342240646b9ec0b267a162e

Choosing the right structure for your landscape

, , , , , , , , ,

Outdoor structures are perfect for keeping you sheltered from all kinds of weather. Structures can also range from simple to complex, so there’s a structure for every space and design style. Plus, adding a structure to your landscape lets you stay outside longer so you can continue to create lasting memories.

But how do you know what structure is suitable for your space? We break down some of the common structures our clients choose for their landscapes.

outdoor pergola and patio cover

Common structures to add to your landscape

1. Arbour

An arbour is a simple way to add structure to your backyard. They are generally arched or square-cornered frames that are used to define pathways. You can choose a stylistic arbour and let the structure add an aesthetic element to your backyard. Or another option is to cover it with trailing or climbing plants for a naturalistic look. This can make an arbour a great addition to your backyard if you have sprawling gardens.

stone path with flowers and arbour

arbour with roses
arbour with garden

arbour with ivy
long arbour with string lights

2. Pool house or cabana

A pool house can be as simple as a shed for storing supplies or a larger structure to fit changing rooms. It is generally considered a freestanding structure located next to or near a pool and can sometimes be considered a cabana. Simple, small pool houses are often used to store equipment, supplies, and other items.Cabanas are a more open structure next to your pool. They can have storage for your pool supplies. Or you can create your own resort-style cabana with a lounge area to get out of the sun and into the shade but still enjoy being by the pool.

pool with pool house

3. Gazebo

As a freestanding unit, a gazebo is a more significant and permanent backyard structure. They are versatile in that there are many gazebo ideas, and they can be built in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and designs.Gazebos are supported by columns and have a solid roof that offers protection from sun and rain. They are a perfect structure to add to a beautiful and large garden area. Some gazebos also have built-in benches or “porch” swings.

gazebo with hot tub

4. Pavilion

A pavilion is similar to a pergola in that it can be freestanding and supported by four columns or attached on one side to another structure. But they have one key difference: unlike a pergola, a pavilion has a closed roof.This provides complete shade and some protection from the weather. Because of this, it is a popular option for full coverage of patios and other outdoor living spaces. They are often built to provide protection near an outdoor fireplace or to provide coverage over an outdoor kitchen.

pavilion with kitchen

5. Pergola

Although arbours and pergolas are sometimes confused with each other, they are different structures. A pergola tends to be a larger unit that can be freestanding and supported by four posts, usually columns or pillars. They also tend to offer more shade and more privacy than arbours.Pergolas are great for any design style. Pergolas often provide some shade for a walkway or an outdoor lounge area. Their roof is designed with cross beams and can be fully open or have some closure to protect you from the elements. Pergolas are popular because their design fits in with many modern styles and is minimalist and easy to maintain.

pergola with lounge chairs

6. Patio Covers

A patio cover is an easy and simple way to add structure and shelter to your backyard. They are attached to the home or pergola and can come in many different forms. They can have a simple, solid roof built to provide partial coverage or be retractable.Patio covers are highly customizable and can be built to match your needs and style, no matter what you’re looking for.

patio cover with dining set

Choosing the right structure for you

Pergolas, pavilions, arbours and gazebos all serve different purposes. So consider if the structure you want also fits your space and needs. But before you choose one of these structures, ask yourself if you want complete protection from the weather or partial shade. 

If you would like a structure to complete your backyard space and keep you outside longer, schedule a consultation with Vandenberg Landscapes, and we can help design and build your perfect outdoor structure.

8e65ecb3ad591bdb7c8b385c43e501af

What Makes a Landscape Low-Maintenance?

, , , , , , , , ,

Every conversation we have with new clients before we begin planning their new landscape starts with “I want it to be low-maintenance.” Now, this sounds like a reasonable request, but it’s really not that simple. 

Some people think having a great expanse of lawn is low-maintenance, while others shudder at the thought of having to mow it every week. That’s why the next question we ask is, “Why do you want a low-maintenance landscape… and what does that mean to you?”

Most people will crack a joke about not wanting to weed, but a truly low-maintenance landscape looks different for everyone. There really is no such thing as a no-maintenance yard… it really comes down to you and the type of maintenance work you can tolerate. As crazy as it sounds, I even know someone who likes to weed! 

That being said, there are a few things that will help reduce the amount of time you spend working in your yard so you can spend more time enjoying it!

backyard with patio

Our process always starts with “Why”

“Why?” is the most important question we ask our clients and the first step in our process. It’s really the only way we get to know you and what it is you value in life. 

So when you’re in the preliminary stages of planning a new landscape, you need to sit down and think seriously about the type of tasks you’re willing to do to maintain your property. 

Of course, you could always have someone maintain it for you, which makes this decision much easier! 

backyard patio with pergola

For those who hate to mow…

If mowing your lawn isn’t your idea of fun, your plan should include plenty of patio space. 

Patios are a great way to extend your living areas into the outdoors and give you ample space for entertaining. 

When choosing which materials to use for your patio, each type has pros and cons, so go for the one that will give you the most joy. 

Stamped concrete, for example, is beautiful, long-lasting and easy to clean… but it needs to be sealed every year or two to keep that gorgeous colour.  

For those who really hate to mow…

If mowing really isn’t your thing, you can always have synthetic turf professionally installed. This is important because poorly installed turf is as obvious as a bad toupée and definitely not the look you’re going for. 

Artificial turf is especially effective around patios, pools and other areas where mowing might be awkward and difficult.

bushes in garden

A planting plan is crucial for low-maintenance landscapes…

We’ve all seen gardens that look overgrown and unkempt, even after just a few years, while other gardens seem to always look great. Is it because the homeowners with messy gardens are lazy? 

Of course not! Usually, it’s a situation where the wrong plants were used — they either don’t get big enough to fill the space (which will happily be filled by weeds) or they get too big and take over the entire garden.

Low-maintenance gardens start with a comprehensive planting plan. This determines where each plant should go based on it’s size, form, colour and texture. It should also take into account:

  • The type and condition of your soil
  • The amount of sunlight the plants will receive
  • The plants that are best adapted to the local climate. 

You might automatically assume that perennials are easier than annuals because they don’t have to be planted every year, too.  But they do need to be pruned and divided regularly to maintain their shape and health. 

We’ve written previous posts about choosing the best annuals and best perennials for the lower mainland if you’re looking for more detailed information and tips from our horticulture team.

lounge chairs

Manage your expectations 

Another factor that determines how much time and effort you need to maintain your landscape is the expectations you have for your yard. 

A lawn with a bit of moss and a few stray weeds is far easier to maintain than a fancy golf-green lawn. It all comes down to the law of diminishing returns… is the time, effort and expense you put into maintaining “perfect” lawn and gardens worth it? Does it really need to be pristine? 

The current trend is to move away from perfection to create a “green” atmosphere that more closely resembles nature. In fact, it is often the small imperfections that give a landscape its beauty and character.

Your new landscape will be as maintenance-free as you want it to be

At Vandenberg landscapes, we’re interested in creating a landscape that’s just right for you. Not your neighbours. Not the guy down the street. And certainly not like any of the other landscapes we’ve created for other people. 

If you’d like help designing a landscape that matches your idea of “maintenance-free”, schedule a consultation, send us an email or just give us a call. 

We’ll help you figure out what maintenance-free looks like to you.

57a9ffecf6c83d261aa528c8143a3f64

Which Materials Should You Choose for Your Driveway?

, , , , , , , , ,

Whether you’re constructing a new driveway or replacing your existing one, there is one question that’s bound to come up: “Which materials should we use to build it with?” 

A driveway is a significant investment and when it comes to materials, there are several options to choose from. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important you weigh your options carefully before making a decision. To make it easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of the more popular driveway materials available in BC, along with their pros and cons.

asphalt driveway with house and trees

Asphalt 

Asphalt is a popular driveway material made from a mixture of aggregates, such as sand, gravel, or crushed stone, and a binder, such as bitumen, which is a sticky, black, and highly viscous material derived from crude oil. 

Pros:

  • Durable — Asphalt is durable, flexible and resistant to weather and heavy traffic. Customizing it with polymer additives and fibers increases its flexibility and strength.
  • Safe — Asphalt isn’t as slippery as some other paving materials, making it a good choice for downward or upward-sloping driveways.
  • Economical — Compared to other paving options, like concrete or interlocking stone, asphalt driveways are a low-cost option, both in terms of cost and the time it takes to complete construction. Size, slope and other factors will affect the overall cost.
  • Easy to install — The process to install an asphalt driveway is relatively simple — excavate and grade the site, add the base materials and edge restraints then pour on the asphalt. After the asphalt has been poured, the surface is compacted with a roller to make it smooth and level. After curing for at least 24-48 hours, it is ready to use.
  • Attractive — Asphalt driveways have a sleek and uniform appearance that complements the look of most homes.

Cons:

  • Maintenance costs — Asphalt driveways need to be sealed regularly to protect against damage from weather, UV rays, and vehicle fluids. Depending on the size of your driveway, you can expect to spend at least $500 every two or three years.
  • Limited colour options — Asphalt driveways have limited colour options, with black being the most prevalent. A limited range of colour options are available but will increase the cost of your driveway.
  • Shorter lifespan — While asphalt is durable, it’ll only last for 15 to 20 years before it needs replacing. Proper installation and regular maintenance can extend this somewhat, but it still won’t last as long as concrete.
  • Cracking — Asphalt can be prone to cracking and damage over time, especially in extreme weather conditions. If there are large trees near the driveway the roots can grow up into the asphalt and break it up.
house with driveway and garden

Concrete

Concrete is a mixture of cement, aggregates such as sand, gravel or crushed stone and water and can be stamped or stained to create a unique look. The specific proportions used in the concrete mixture can vary greatly depending on the desired properties and its intended use.

Pros:

  • Durable — Concrete is a highly durable material that can withstand extreme weather conditions and heavy traffic without cracking or breaking. 
  • Long-lasting — Concrete driveways can last 30 to 40 years (or longer!) with proper maintenance and care — nearly twice as long as asphalt.
  • Customizable — Concrete driveways can be customized with unique designs and vibrant colours. Stamped concrete can mimic the look of more expensive materials, such as brick or cobblestone and help boost your property’s curb appeal. 
  • Low maintenance — Concrete driveways are relatively low maintenance and only need occasional cleaning and sealing to keep them looking great and protect against damage.

Cons:

  • Prone to cracking — There are several factors that can cause concrete driveways to crack, including shrinkage, settling due to improper installation, freeze-thaw cycles and being subjected to unusually heavy traffic.
  • Higher upfront costs — The materials used to make concrete are more expensive than those used to make asphalt and installing concrete requires more time, labour and equipment. These factors can significantly increase the cost of your driveway.
  • Staining — Concrete driveways are prone to staining from oil, grease, and other vehicle fluids, which are unsightly and can be difficult to remove. However, sealing your driveway periodically can help mitigate this.
  • Installation time — Although it only takes a few days to install concrete, you’ll have to wait at least a week after installation is complete to drive on it to allow it to cure and reach its full strength.
stone paver driveway with large house

Pavers 

Pavers for driveways can be made from a variety of materials, including concrete, clay, natural stone, brick and permeable pavers. The type of paver material you choose will depend on the desired aesthetic, durability, budget and other factors.

Pros:

  • Visual appeal — Pavers are available in a wide variety of colours, shapes, and patterns, which can create a driveway that is unique and looks amazing!
  • Durable — These materials are quite durable and can withstand heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions without damage.
  • Easy to repair — If a brick or paver becomes damaged, it can be easily replaced without having to redo the entire driveway. 
  • Low maintenance — Pavers are relatively low maintenance and only need occasional cleaning and sealing to protect them from stains, weather-related damage, such as cracking or fading, refresh their appearance and prevent weeds from growing up through the spaces.
  • Better drainage — Because there is space between each paver there isn’t as much runoff after a heavy rain, especially if you opt to use permeable pavers. 

Cons:

  • Higher cost — Pavers are generally more expensive than other options like asphalt or concrete, although the actual cost can vary depending on the specific material chosen.
  • Installation time — Installing a driveway using bricks or other pavers will take longer than other options due to the need for precise placement and leveling.
  • Safety concerns — Pavers can be slippery when wet, especially on driveways that are on a slope.
  • Uneven surface — Bricks and pavers can shift over time, creating an uneven surface that can be difficult to walk or drive on and make snow removal more challenging.

Which material should you choose for your driveway?

When choosing a driveway material, it’s important to consider the overall look and style of your home, as well as your budget and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Climate — In areas with harsh winters or heavy rainfall, you may want to choose a material that can withstand freeze-thaw cycles and has good drainage.
  • Slope — If your driveway is on a slope, choose a material that offers good traction to prevent slipping and sliding.
  • Overall aesthetic — The style of your home and landscaping can influence your choice of driveway material. For example, a natural stone driveway may complement a rustic or traditional home, while a sleek concrete driveway may be a better fit for a modern or contemporary home.
  • Local regulations — Some municipalities may have regulations or restrictions on the type of driveway materials that can be used. Be sure to check with your local government before making a decision.
  • Resale value — If you plan to sell your home in the future, the type of driveway material you choose can impact its resale value. A well-maintained and attractive driveway can increase curb appeal and make your home more appealing to potential buyers.
house with garden and stone driveway

More questions about driveways?

There are a lot of things to consider when planning to construct a new driveway or replace an existing one… too many for one short blog post! Should the walkways be made of the same materials? How about the border or apron? How thick should the asphalt be?

If you have more questions about choosing driveway materials, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Consulting with our team of professionals can help you make an informed decision and ensure your driveway is something you’ll love coming home to.

c580d37c023e65ba194e72ac41223d94

Is Landscaping a Good Investment?

, , , , , , , , ,

When planning major upgrades to your home or property, there are two things most people consider — how will this change affect my lifestyle, and how will it affect my property’s value?

Landscaping — provided it’s well-designed and maintained and suits the aesthetics of your home and neighbourhood — has the potential to increase your property’s value by as much as 12%. And with average home prices around the million-dollar mark in B.C., this is not insignificant! 

But all improvements will have a different impact on your return on investment (ROI). To get the best ROI, the improvements you make should improve the space visually and be something most people would use and appreciate. Here are a few guidelines to follow when investing in your yard to increase your home’s value — and how to make the experience easier and more enjoyable. 

Outdoor structure over outdoor kitchen

Start with a purpose-driven design

At Vandenberg, our design process is purpose-driven. This means every landscape design starts with a simple but profound question: “Why are you contemplating a change?” 

Understanding why you want to upgrade your landscape helps your designer create features that improve your lifestyle. Furthermore, a designer can ensure all elements in your yard are aesthetically pleasing and placed where they make the most sense. For instance, adding a patio can increase your home’s value, but only if it’s the right size and in a good location.

Your design will include all the elements you’d like to add to your landscape, both now and in the future. This is especially helpful if your landscape will be built in phases. For instance, you’ll need to install the water and electrical lines for the kitchen you’re going to add next year before laying your new patio this year.

backyard with patio and beautiful garden

Features with the best ROI

The return on investment for landscape features can vary depending on several factors, including the location, type of property, and specific features. However, here are a few landscape features that have been shown to provide a good ROI in British Columbia.

  • Outdoor living spaces, such as patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens, are popular features that provide a good ROI in British Columbia. According to a report by the Appraisal Institute of Canada, outdoor living spaces can provide a return on investment of up to 30% in some cases. Adding an outdoor structure, such as a pergola or pavilion, helps define the space, provides shelter from the elements and is a stylish way to extend your living space.
  • Landscaping can also provide a good ROI in British Columbia, particularly if it includes features like trees, shrubs and gardens. Gardens enhance the visual appeal of your yard, creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere that can increase your enjoyment of your outdoor space and provide opportunities for outdoor entertainment and socializing. According to a study by the University of Washington, landscaping can provide a return on investment of up to 109%! 
  • Outdoor lighting improves the safety, security, and aesthetics of a property. Landscape lighting can make your yard feel like a fine resort, an aesthetic that is universally appealing. According to a study by the National Association of Home Builders, outdoor lighting can provide a return on investment of up to 50%. 

Understand that these figures are averages and can go up or down depending on a number of factors, such as the quality of materials used and the overall design of the property. When making improvements for ROI, they should make the space more functional and visually appealing.

Beautiful green lawn

Improve ROI with basic maintenance

Even beautifully designed landscapes built using exquisite materials will lose their value over time if they’re not properly maintained. It’s surprising how quickly weeds will overtake a garden or lawn if left unchecked. Maintaining your property takes some time, but a little TLC will ensure it retains its value for years to come. 

  • Keep patios and walkways clean and tidy — Your outdoor “floors” need the same kind of care and attention you give to the floors in your home. Sweep them to remove dirt and debris, wipe up spills and check for loose grout and cracked pavers. For more detailed cleaning instructions, check with the manufacturer.
  • Apply mulch to your gardens — Mulching helps keep your garden healthy, suppresses weeds and makes your garden look amazing — increasing your property’s curb appeal at the same time. Edging your lawn and gardens to create clean, crisp lines that define a border, a single tree or shrub takes nothing more than a bit of time… giving you a great return for little investment.
  • Keep your lawn healthy — Regular lawn maintenance, including aeration, overseeding, top-dressing, fertilizing, mowing and watering will keep your lawn green and lush while adding to your property’s curb appeal. 

ROI is only part of the equation…

Unless the sale of your property is imminent, it’s a mistake to upgrade your landscape based solely on the ROI. While ROI is important, it shouldn’t be the determining factor when upgrading your landscape — your foremost consideration should be which features you’d like to have in your yard… after all, you’re the one who will be using it!

Be aware that adding features that need a lot of maintenance (like pools) can have a negative effect on your property’s value, deterring potential buyers. That being said, a LOT of people love pools… and if you do, too, go ahead and include one in your yard! 

If you’re looking to upgrade your yard and need some inspiration, check out the featured properties on our website to see what others have done with their yards. Then, when you’re ready, schedule a consultation so we can help you transform your yard into an inspiring and enriching place to share with family and friends — and give you a great return on your investment!

9524237a00a0874214a08200bfcc5f84

What to expect during landscape construction

, , , , , , , ,

Raise your hand if you’ve been thinking about reimagining your front or back yard — or both — but are hesitant to start because you’re worried about the process. You’ve heard stories about mess and construction that never seems to end, making your yard unusable for months and creating issues with your neighbours. 

But it doesn’t have to be that way. At Vandenberg, we shaped our process to be as enjoyable and as intuitive as possible for our clients — so you get the landscape you’ve been dreaming about without unnecessary hassles. In this post, we’ll walk you through our entire process so you know what you should expect from a professional landscape company. Read on!

1. The initial meeting

In this first meeting, you should be introduced to someone who will be your initial point of contact. At Vandenberg, that person would be our Client Care Manager.

This first meeting is crucial, since it’s when you’ll have the chance to explore your vision for your property with a professional and determine if we’re a good fit — meaning they listen to you with empathy, have the necessary credentials and training and can show you a beautiful portfolio of completed work. 

We use this opportunity to get to know you better, and the reason(s) why you want to update your property — it’s the first step in our purpose-driven design process.

2. Receive recommendation

After the initial meeting, you should receive a design proposal based on the vision you shared. We include a video along with our proposal, to make your vision clearer and easier for you to envision. 

In this proposal, the designer will help you prioritize features, suggest appropriate materials and add meaningful details in your new landscape — taking your vision and expanding on it to make it incredible! 

At Vandenberg, we believe you should be involved in the design process, and you have the final say. We believe your new landscape should reflect your tastes and lifestyle so it’s uniquely yours — no cookie-cutter landscapes here!

3. Approve the design 

After you look through the recommendations and approve the concept, your landscape is ready for design. At Vandenberg, that means meeting with the design team at a kickoff meeting, where we go deeper and clarify your vision.

After working out your landscape design on paper, you’ll be invited to review the progress and maybe even try it on for size with 3D digital renderings. At this stage, an initial budget is included for your information and approval. 

After making any revisions, it’s time to schedule the installation — all you have to do now is sit back and watch the transformation take place!

4. Construction begins…

This is where the magic happens, and is why we’re so passionate about our jobs! Here’s what you can expect during the construction phase:

  • Clearing the site and protecting existing structures from damage — At this stage, we also let the neighbours know what’s happening and give them a number to call if they encounter any issues.
  • Construction timeline — You’ll be provided with an overview of the construction phases, along with an estimate of how long each phase should take. Keep in mind that there could be factors, such as the weather, that could influence the timeline.
  • Site cleanliness and disruptions — While it’s impossible to install a new landscape without dirt and mess, a professional landscape company should keep it to a minimum. At Vandenberg, that means maintaining a clean, organized and safe work area at all times. This also includes minimizing noise and inconvenience to neighbouring properties.
  • Repairing damages — Should accidental damages occur, the contractor should take full responsibility for them and provide the necessary repairs without any additional charges. 

During the construction phase, you should expect regular updates from the landscape company, preferably from your point of contact. If you choose to build with Vandenberg, your project manager will touch base with you daily during the build, whether on-site, by email or by text message.

5. Enjoy your completed landscape!

When your project is complete, we walk you through the finished product with one of our team members. This is your opportunity to voice any questions or concerns and understand how everything works, such as where to turn off the gas to your outdoor kitchen or how to operate the pump for the pool. 

Once you’re 100% satisfied, that’s it… the only decision left to make is who to invite to your first outdoor party! (Most of us like our steaks medium-rare…; )

If you’re ready to get the ball rolling, schedule a free consultation… and this time next year you could be enjoying a gorgeous new landscape!

b8573005908d76c0dd87faad85fb8d87

Turn Your Yard Into a Private Paradise

, , , , , , , , ,

Creating a wishlist of all the features you want to include in your new landscape is exciting — but what do you do if your yard has issues that make your space less than ideal, such as unsightly views or exposure to neighbouring properties? 

Backyard privacy is a big issue. New houses seem to spring up overnight and are often built far too close to neigbouring properties for comfort. But what can you do to hide the neighbours ugly shed or ensure you’ll feel comfortable sunbathing on the pool deck? 

Enlist the services of a landscape designer. 

In addition to helping you choose the features to include and materials to use in your new landscape, a professional designer will suggest a variety of design solutions to keep curious eyes from peeking into your yard and shield you from unsightly views. 

As an added bonus, including some type of barrier helps reduce noise and improves the safety and security of your property. If any of these issues are a concern for you, this is a post you’ll definitely want to read!

Create a living barrier with plants

Plants are essential in any landscape. In addition to providing texture, vibrant colours and depth, plants can shield your yard from prying eyes and act as a natural sound barrier, creating a private oasis in a friendly, unobtrusive way.

In B.C., there are several ways to use plants to increase your privacy and block out unwanted views.

  • Plant trees and shrubs — Trees and shrubs are extremely beneficial in a landscape. They provide shade, improve air quality, help control erosion and offer food and shelter to wildlife. They’re also beautiful and natural privacy screens that reduce noise and create a sense of seclusion. Most evergreens are a good choice, but you can always mix in some deciduous and flowering trees and shrubs for added interest. 
  • Plant a hedge — In certain circumstances, a hedge could help increase the privacy in your yard. But be careful when choosing the plants you’ll use — laurel and cedar grow quickly and can become too tall and intrusive in smaller spaces. 
  • Erect a trellis — Installing a lattice fence and covering it with vines is a good way to block your view while still allowing light to filter through. You can use a trellis to separate different sections of your landscape from each other too, creating a more intimate space for dining or soaking in the hot tub.

There are plenty of plants that provide excellent privacy and screening. When selecting plants for your landscape, it’s important to consider factors such as sunlight exposure, soil conditions and the desired height and growth rate. Consulting with local growers or the horticultural experts at Vandenberg will ensure you get the best plants for your specific property and privacy needs.

Install a fence for instant privacy

It’s been said that “good fences make good neighbours”. But putting up a fence does more than provide privacy: 

  • Define your space — A fence defines the boundary between your property and your neighbour’s, making property disputes unlikely.
  • Limit access to your property — Having a fenced yard keeps intruders from entering your property, giving your home an extra layer of protection. And that includes curious wildlife. 
  • Wind and noise reduction — Fences act as windbreaks, reducing the impact of strong winds in your yard. Additionally, fences can help reduce noise from nearby roads or neighbours.
  • Provides a nice backdrop for your garden — A fences provides structure and support for your garden, helping define the edges and providing a stable background.
  • Keep children and pets safe — A fence creates a safe and enclosed area for children and pets to play, keeping them from wandering off or accessing potential hazards in neighbouring properties. 

Fences are very versatile. With a wide range of styles and materials available, you can choose a fence that complements your home’s aesthetics and the natural surroundings. 

Define your space with privacy screens 

If you’d like your yard to feel cozy and intimate, install a privacy screen of some kind to define specific spaces within your landscape design. Here are some areas where a screen could be beneficial.

  • Patio or deck — Having a privacy screen around your patio or deck lets you relax or entertain friends and family without worrying about prying eyes.
  • Pools and hot tubs — Installing a privacy screen around your pool or hot tub lets you enjoy a soak or a swim without feeling like you’re being watched.
  • Outdoor living space — An outdoor living space is an extension of your home. To make it feel more like a room, use a privacy screen to define the space and create a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
  • Screen off unsightly areas — We all have spaces in our yards that are practical, but not necessarily beautiful. A strategically-placed privacy screen helps hide the pool pump, garbage cans and other “messy” sites from view.

Privacy screens can be made from living or non-living materials, and where you place your privacy screen will depend on the layout of your property and your specific needs. Vandenberg’s landscape designer can help determine the best place to put your screen to maximize privacy and enhance your outdoor living space.

Your yard can be a private paradise

A well-placed barrier or privacy screen is the key to creating a sanctuary where you can unwind and enjoy your yard to the fullest. Whether you opt for lush greenery or a more structured approach, unsightly views or lack of privacy won’t keep you from enjoying your outdoors.

If lack of privacy or an unattractive view are issues for you, Vandenberg’s design team has the experience to transform your outdoor space into a private oasis. Simply schedule a free consultation to see how we can help.

Landscapes     Featured Projects     About     Blog     Careers     Contact

604-866-3023

Review us
on Google

© 2018-2025 Vandenberg Landscapes  Landscaper Marketing By North Shore Digital   Privacy Policy   Cookie Policy   42675 Keith Wilson Rd, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4N6

error: Content is protected !!