The site is dominated by mid-rise residential buildings, and is shaded for much of the day. Hardy, low-maintenance, and native planting was a must to accommodate a limited landscape operating budget. The existing planting beds were small and had restricted soil volume. The dignity, comfort, and joy of the residents was a driving principle.

For this planting plan, an “ecological reference” approach was used. An ecosystem from Southern Ontario was chosen that closely resembled the site conditions, and a planting list was generated from that ecosystem. From there, the plant lists could be refined to the specific site conditions.

Under the guidance of the Principal, multiple site visits were conducted for site inventory and analysis, to discuss potential planting strategies with the landscape contractor, to meet with the team architects on a regular basis, and to develop a detailed planting plan.

Team: VTLA Studio, Susan Spiegel Architect, Woodgreen Community Housing