A Suburban Retreat
Duncan, British Columbia
This blank slate was part of an owner built home in a new subdivision on the outskirts of Duncan. Our client wanted to create a modern Westcoast vibe that welcomes Airbnb guests for a cozy stay with a private back yard to enjoy. Special requests were a fire pit and hot tub with low maintenance gardens.
Dave & Malinda have been working along with our detailed notes through the past couple years. Things have come together with the hot tub area in the backyard still in progress. (pics to come in 2026)
Last year we were invited to offer some guidance on alterations since breaking ground in 2023.
This design demonstrates how smaller lots can hold much impact when carefully planned. Repeating plants in the same color tones create a calming effect softening the hardscape and structures.
Garden Design
Garden Coaching
Salvia ‘Violet Profusion’
Juniper ‘Blue Star’
Calamagrostis x acuiflora ‘Karl Foster’ Grass
We chose a Magnolia as a "greeting tree" for the entryway, adding a touch of whimsy to this modern garden. It provides a striking silhouette in the winter with its unique structure and fuzzy buds, followed by a spectacular show of white flowers in early spring as the rest of the garden begins to wake.
To address the heat from the surrounding concrete, we selected Mugo Pine as the primary evergreen. Chosen for its hardiness and drought tolerance, it provides year-round structure and a vital habitat for local wildlife, perfectly anchoring the softer texture of the surrounding Grasses and Salvia.
We designed this space for dramatic curb appeal with visual interest in every season. By softening the surrounding concrete and stone, we introduced a lush, cottage-inspired feel that brings a sense of character and warmth to the subdivision.
“I highly recommend Plants Become Art for their expertise, creativity, and commitment to sustainability.”
“We recently collaborated with Plants Become Art to transform my blank slate outdoor space into a sustainable, easily maintained garden that harmonizes with the natural environment. Their personalized service and customizable packages made the process enjoyable and stress-free. The coaching provided me with the knowledge and confidence to plant and work my garden effectively.”
Malinda
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