Article by Michelle Heslop. Photos by Jody Beck.
According to this retired couple, it’s never too late to purchase a fixer-upper with great bones — especially when it sits pretty on the crest of a hill overlooking spectacular Gonzales Bay. With Zebra Group at the design helm, a major renovation ushered the dwelling into the twenty-first century. To complement their recently revived interior, the design-savvy owners envisioned a streamlined modern landscape using natural materials and plantings that would keep sight lines to the panoramic views unobstructed. For a complete redesign and build, the homeowners turned to Bianca Bodley of Biophilia Design to breathe new life into their coastal landscape.
To complete the reno’s dream team, ARYZE Development spearheaded the home’s rebirth that centred on aging in place with a west coast aesthetic that would not only embrace the views but become a contemporary backdrop for their vibrant art collection. “The house has a stunning view of Gonzales Bay looking across to the Olympic mountain range so the home’s natural setting was considered in the design at all times,” says Bodley. In addition to a full plant plan, Bodley’s design included hardscaping in the form of custom aluminum and cedar fencing, aluminum house number signage, driveway, concrete planters, concrete stairs with built-in planters, stone pathways and a lower patio.
Custom cedar fencing with aluminum posts designed by
Biophilia are as low profile as possible to maintain the views without compromising on security and privacy. “I wanted the landscape to be unique and reflect the bold modern aesthetic of the clients. Offset angles in the concrete and hardscaping introduce a somewhat playful element to provide opportunities to pause while the variation in plant material offers character to the entry,” adds Bodley.
