Landscape designer in the Toronto Beach community

Landscaping the Toronto Beaches

Beach Front Yard Parking Pad Makeover

Award Of Excellence Winner/Landscape Ontario

- Having convenient parking on your property in the City of Toronto is a privilege that many Torontonians are without. 

- We were hired to design and make an application for legal front yard parking and if granted permission, to install it.

- One of the requirements for getting approval is using a permeable paver for the parking pad. We used Unilock Town Hall pavers which gave the design a rich old world appearance while meeting the City’s rule.

- To bring a bit of modern to this project we introduced Eramosa polished flagstones for the walkway and the copings on the small planter walls. The intricate veining of this stone adds interest and is a conversation piece.

- The existing mature Japanese Maple’s red tones were repeated with the burgundy of the Coral Bells on the opposite side of the property. They also provide dramatic contrast with the lime green foliage of the Golden Variegated Hakonechloa. Repeated Bergenia and perennial Geranium’s add a cohesive and colourful complement.

- It is rare that a front yard parking design adds both function and a much better curb appeal to a property. One would have thought that adding all this paving would have turned the streetscape into a inner city parking lot but instead our design has given this front yard a WOW factor!

Beach Front Yard Parking Pad

Beach Backyard Makeover

Award Of Excellence Winner/Landscape Ontario

•	The original backyard was a do-it-yourselfer with multiple grades, a shed at a lower grade in the back corner, and a wood deck that cantilevered over the lower back grade.

•	Client had a motorcycle and bikes that they wanted to be able to roll into the new shed so rear of backyard needed to come up in grade to allow this function.

•	Existing fencing was an array of styles. Needed a cohesive style throughout.

•	Client wanted a more traditional perennial garden - not too modern – but liked ornamental grasses. Wanted to keep or plant new, Coneflowers, Black Eyed Susan’s, and Peonies.

•	When we demolished the existing deck we found underneath an old foundation for the original garage that was removed years before.

•	The new design incorporated horizontal board fencing with a new matching shed by Summerwood spanning the whole width of the property at the rear.

•	The client was good friends with the neighbour to the north and did not want us to close off part of this side bordering them. 

•	In this small Beach backyard, there was only enough room for a dining patio or a lounging patio. The client opted for dining. 

•	The client wanted some bright red fall colour. We opted for two specimen Serviceberries. 

•	This charming space is loved by these clients.


Beach Backyard

Beach Parking Pad

The client was delighted to learn during their initial call with us that we could secure permission for a legal parking pad on their property.

The project faced initial challenges due to the presence of weed trees. Upon contacting the Forestry Department, we were informed that an inspection was necessary to determine if these trees were protected. Fortunately, the inspection was promptly conducted, and the trees were approved for removal.

For the parking pad, we opted for permeable pavers, accented with a striking black paver border and a complementary front walkway. This choice not only enhanced the functionality but also brought a modern edge to the design through its bold contrast.

The landscaping was revitalized with a contemporary touch, incorporating classic plants such as Daylilies, Hosta, Bergenia, Sedge, Salvia, Yews, and Cedars, blending traditional charm with modern aesthetics.

We preserved the existing porch, shed, and one fence panel while introducing a new screen on the yard's opposite side to harmonize with the existing fencing, enriching the cohesive look of the outdoor space.

As a result, the client gained not only legal front yard parking but also a visually stunning landscape that complements their home.

Beach Pad Parking

Beach Front Yard Parking Makeover

We successfully orchestrated a front yard transformation for our client in Toronto's Beach district, securing a coveted parking permit in the process.

Our design harmoniously blended traditional flagstone for the walkway and curbing, paired with a rustic cobblestone permeable interlocking brick paver for the parking pad. Complementing this was a contemporary planting scheme, adding a touch of modernity to the landscape.

Understanding the constraints of the parking pad's dimensions, we needed to rebuild a portion of the front porch to gain the length we needed. The client proposed upgrading the front porch railing to include a double gate to unload their groceries from the trunk of the car. Recognising the practicality, we seamlessly integrated this enhancement into the project.

The result? A legally approved front yard parking pad that not only met the client's needs but also augmented the home's value by an estimated $125,000.

Outdoor Sauna Backyard Retreat

The backyard of our Toronto client by the beach was aesthetically pleasing but lacked functionality for their current lifestyle. The clients envisioned a space where they could entertain guests and the husband could indulge in his love for cigars.

At the top of their priority list was the addition of an outdoor sauna, complemented by their existing firetable. They desired an outdoor space where they could watch TV on the deck while also having shade.

Our design solution features a three-level PVC deck that guides you down to the new outdoor sauna. A cozy lounging area just outside the sauna is perfect for evenings around the firetable. A mid-level dining area, accompanied by another lounging space for TV viewing, is sheltered by a pergola. The pergola not only provides shade for midday lunches with family and friends but also has attached heaters for comfort during chilly fall or cool summer nights.

The upper landing is strategically designed to accommodate their BBQ, conveniently close to the kitchen. We trust that this transformed outdoor retreat will bring joy to our clients.

Beach Outdoor Sauna Backyard Retreat

Beach Front Yard

In Toronto's upper beach area, a conventional front yard has undergone a remarkable transformation. Gone is the typical straight path; instead, a winding walkway now gracefully leads to the porch, inviting a more captivating journey. The once expansive lawn has given way to enchanting tiered planting beds adorned with ornamental grasses, accented by bursts of vibrant hydrangeas and a Japanese Maple for a pop of color.

Functionality meets beauty with the addition of a discreet mini shed for garbage and recycling bins near the porch, cleverly softened by Hicks Yew shrubs. New walkways and steps offer direct access to the driveway, ensuring convenience for both everyday use and garbage collection days.

The landscape's allure is further heightened by the durable and stylish Unilock's U-Cara walls and steps. To complement this, the porch boasts either refined PVC wood cladding or the rustic elegance of stained cedar, elevating the facade's visual appeal to new heights.

Beaches Diagonal Parking Pad

To give this city tree the birth it needed, this angled parking pad that wraps around it offers a nice touch by creating a buffer for greenery to hide and complement your parked vehicle partially. Here, a Yew hedge serves as a graceful partition.

At the top of the parking pad, an elevated planter filled with vibrant plants enriches the front yard, introducing more organic elements and visual dimensions.

Additionally, the precast steps and landing in front of the porch not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also serve a practical purpose, adding both intrigue and functionality.

In this Beaches backyard, there was a plain lower deck lacking privacy and a small shed tucked away in a corner. The goal was to enhance privacy along the deck, create a low-maintenance lawn for shaded areas, and revamp the existing outdoor space.

To address this, we introduced a raised planter with cedars on one side of the deck and a horizontal wooden privacy screen on the other. Complementing this, an artificial lawn bordered by crisp flagstones added definition to the lower area, while stepping stones leading to the shed brought an additional layer of charm.

Along the back, tall cedar plantings and tiered plant arrangements not only provided the desired privacy but also diversified the backyard's plant palette. The existing decks, given some care and new stains, were revitalised and now flow seamlessly up to the different levels of the house.

The transformation sets the scene for enjoyable evenings with friends in this newly revamped space

Upper Beach 2 - Front Yard Parking Pad

This project involved enhancing the front yard of a residence in upper beach Toronto by adding a parking pad to alleviate the challenges of street parking, especially during peak times and weekends.

Considering the presence of a hydro pole, our design called for a diagonal parking spot, strategically positioned perpendicular to the shared driveway. Complicating matters, local regulations necessitated that the parking pad be located on private property due to permit parking restrictions on the street. This entailed navigating the Building Department's regulations and securing a variance from the Committee of Adjustments (COA) to meet zoning requirements.

We opted for a diagonal parking pad design for its ability to integrate greenery that provides a subtle barrier between the parked vehicle and the road, offering a semblance of privacy similar to that of a circular driveway. We eagerly await approval for this project and look forward to commencing construction.

Beaches Front Yard Parking Pad

This recently updated beachside residence boasts timeless Cape Cod aesthetics.

The newly designed front yard showcases charming cobblestone permeable pavers, a sturdy flagstone pathway with stepping stones, and a defining flagstone border outlining the adjacent garden.

To accommodate parking lengthwise in the new space, the existing front porch underwent careful modifications, allowing for a snug fit of the vehicle.

This unique modern landscape design exudes sophistication and warmth, blending lush herbaceous perennials like sedge with a striking Japanese Maple tree as its centrepiece.

Beach Contemporary Hot Tub

This beachside backyard boasted a weathered, sprawling deck and a patchwork of flagstone patios.

With the addition of a hot tub, the homeowner aimed for a grander vision—a roomy deck to harmonize with this new feature.

Shaded by towering trees from adjacent yards, the choice leaned toward low-maintenance flora thriving in dimmer light.

Now, a sleek composite deck, adorned with horizontal cedar fencing, an aluminum pergola, and a cozy fire table, crafts a contemporary outdoor oasis, perfectly echoing the client's quest for a serene, effortless outdoor escape.



This beachside backyard boasted a weathered, sprawling deck and a patchwork of flagstone patios.

With the addition of a hot tub, the homeowner aimed for a grander vision—a roomy deck to harmonize with this new feature.

Shaded by towering trees from adjacent yards, the choice leaned toward low-maintenance flora thriving in dimmer light.

Now, a sleek composite deck, adorned with horizontal cedar fencing, an aluminum pergola, and a cozy fire table, crafts a contemporary outdoor oasis, perfectly echoing the client's quest for a serene, effortless outdoor escape.

This beachside backyard boasted a weathered, sprawling deck and a patchwork of flagstone patios.

With the addition of a hot tub, the homeowner aimed for a grander vision—a roomy deck to harmonize with this new feature.

Shaded by towering trees from adjacent yards, the choice leaned toward low-maintenance flora thriving in dimmer light.

Now, a sleek composite deck, adorned with horizontal cedar fencing, an aluminum pergola, and a cozy fire table, crafts a contemporary outdoor oasis, perfectly echoing the client's quest for a serene, effortless outdoor escape.


This beachside backyard boasted a weathered, sprawling deck and a patchwork of flagstone patios.

With the addition of a hot tub, the homeowner aimed for a grander vision—a roomy deck to harmonize with this new feature.

Shaded by towering trees from adjacent yards, the choice leaned toward low-maintenance flora thriving in dimmer light.

Now, a sleek composite deck, adorned with horizontal cedar fencing, an aluminum pergola, and a cozy fire table, crafts a contemporary outdoor oasis, perfectly echoing the client's quest for a serene, effortless outdoor escape.

Best of Houzz 2024

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Best of Houzz 2023

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Best of Houzz 2022

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Best of Houzz 2021

Best of Houzz 2021 - Design

Best of Houzz 2021 - Client Satisfaction

Best of Houzz 2019

Best of Houzz 2019 - Client Satisfaction

Best of Houzz 2018

Best of Houzz 2018 - Client Satisfaction

Best of Houzz 2017

Best of Houzz 2017 - Client Satisfaction

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LANDSCAPE DESIGNER FOR THE BEACH COMMUNITY

Established in 1995, over 30 years of experience.

Welcome to your Beach Community landscape designer and landscape installation service, your premier destination for transforming outdoor spaces in Toronto&#x27;s vibrant Beaches community. Did you know that Green Apple Landscaping actually started our business over 30 years ago servicing this area exclusively! Our expert team specialises in creating breathtaking landscapes that seamlessly blend with the natural beauty of the area. Whether you&#x27;re looking to get a legal front yard parking pad, widen your mutual driveway, or create an oasis in your backyard we can help transform your space. From lush gardens to inviting outdoor living spaces, we take pride in crafting designs that reflect your unique style and enhance your lifestyle. Explore our portfolio to see examples of our stunning landscaping in the Toronto Beaches community, and let us bring your vision to life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards enjoying the outdoor oasis you&#x27;ve always dreamed of.

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