Robert Heaslip
Landscape & Golf Course Design
Residential Design
Robert has maintained a special interest in residential landscape design and offers a wealth of experience from the small intimate urban townhouse setting to the country estates with acreage as well as cottages. Services can range from a consultation to spark and confirm the owners ideas to a complete landscape design services from concept to construction completion. Retaining the services of a landscape designer is not a common activity for a home owner and the following outline illustrates the role of the landscape designer so that the owner can proceed with confidence when approaching a designer for services.
Residential Landscape Design
Residential landscape design incorporates man-made and natural elements with the artistic to create an aesthetic and personal space. A well designed and constructed landscape will offer an inspiring environment for family and friends to enjoy. Such a landscape will elevate the appearance of the home and its surroundings as well as increase the value of property.
Design Considerations
Residential landscape is unique unto itself as it reflects the image of the owner according to tastes, needs, priorities and budget. The landscape incorporates the front yard 'curb appeal', the transition through the side yards and other connecting spaces that leads to the backyard 'outdoor living' space.
New home construction offers a clean canvas for landscape design. With a welcoming front yard landscape that complements the architecture of the residence to the backyard outdoor living areas and landscapes that may have decking, patios, perhaps a swimming pool, a variety of gardens, special landscape features, lawns and utility areas.
An existing landscape may need to be restored, updated or renovated as it no longer meets the owners' current and future needs. Many factors will be considered in achieving the desired end result such as personal needs, balance between aesthetics, function and budget. In short, what is the 'character' of the landscape to be created?
Rendered Plan - Bragagnolo Residence, King City, ON
Design Services
An initial visit to the property to discuss the landscape requirements and to derive a terms of reference for a proposal of services. The services and fees will be tailored to the owners specific needs.
Upon acceptance of services, a visit to the property is scheduled to gather information such as the legal property survey, any architectural plans or relevant documents, site measurements, survey elevations and digital pictures, all to assist in preparing a computer base plan. The data gathering will include documenting existing features within the property as well as neighbouring buildings, structures, landscapes and views. Digital pictures are taken of the property and surrounding area to assist in the planning and design process.
The client is a key member of the design process. The concept meetings allows the client to participate in the planning of the landscape and will ensure that there is a full understanding of the scope of the project, the opportunities and constraints which may influence the budget, materials and techniques used. The goal is for the client to be confident that the best landscape solution has been achieved within the given parameters. A 'concept plan' is prepared to confirm the goals have been met and to discuss any new ideas or questions which may arise.
Landscape Concept Streetview Hand Drawn Sketch
Detailed plans are prepared noting the landscape elements with measurements, construction materials, quantities, construction notes and specifications, planting plan with plant material list of species, size, quantities, spacing and description notes. Plans are reviewed and a construction strategy is discussed.
Planting Plan - Bindi Residence, Woodbridge, ON
Construction and Completion
Depending on the clients requirements, Robert can be involved during the construction phases, and offer a variety of services that can include arranging contractor bids or assist in providing guidance should the owner decide to undertake the work. Site visit to inspect and ensue that the work is being carried out correctly, and to assist in resolving that may arise during the construction phase.
