Retired couple Chris and Lori Nolan recently completed extensive renovations in the front and back yards of their Alberni Street property. After 11 months of work, the garden is looking trim and fresh with cedar-wood fencing, new decking, a patio and substantial landscape work.
The project began last year, after the Nolans sold their East Vancouver home of 35 years to begin a new life in Powell River. They bought their property, located halfway between Joyce and Michigan avenues, in August 2017 before moving in at the beginning of this year.
The previous owner had already completed extensive interior and exterior renovations on the house itself. Since moving in, the Nolans have only added new flooring and window covers to their new home.
However, Chris said the garden was something of a “blank canvas.” Before they moved in, the Nolans knew they were going to have to invest considerable time and energy into smartening up the yard.
The garden itself is deceptively spacious. Driving or walking past the front yard, passersby can admire the smart fencing and newly planted garden beds. However, the property also boasts a large back yard.
“The front is only half the story,” said Chris.
After the sale of their old house in Vancouver, the Nolans were fortunate in being able to work on the back yard with little expense spared.
Beginning in October last year, the first order of business was putting up a brand new six-foot cedar-wood fence, which stretches around the perimeter of the back garden. With the yard fully enclosed, the Nolans' two playful labradors were free to have the run of the place.
Next, the decking was fitted. For this part of the project, the Nolans enlisted the local expertise of B&D Woodworks to construct a three-level deck. The entire deck is made from treated lumber with cedar trim, and provides a stylish area for the Nolans’ garden furniture.
With ample space in the back yard, the Nolans also decided to have B&D install a fully enclosed dog run, keeping canine business off the lawn.
After carpenters completed the woodwork, the Nolans had a brick patio laid. Having attempted a small masonry project himself once before, Chris said he knew he was going to need the knowledge and know-how of a professional.
“I’d tried it once before, but it’s really not for amateurs,” he added.
The Nolans hired local stonemason Ken McCullough to do the job.
Chris said he and his wife did not undertake the renovations with any kind of a plan. As the work proceeded, the scope of the project grew and began to include a wide range of additional features, including raised flower beds and a stone wall.
The project was rounded off this month with the addition of new patio furniture and a hot tub.
With a combination of flexibility and local expertise, Chris said the project has delivered a beautifully rejuvenated yard.
