Urban Revival: Solving Space & Soil Challenges in Downtown Ottawa
Working in downtown Ottawa always presents a unique set of challenges. The properties are tighter, the access is trickier, and the history of the house often dictates what we can (and can't) do.
Our latest project was a perfect example of this puzzle. We were working with a home where the driveway width dated back to the horse-and-buggy era—literally before cars were the main form of transportation! The goal? To create a functional, ecological family space that included parking, dining, and a play area, all within a compact urban footprint. Here is how we transformed the space.
Permeable Solutions
With such a narrow, historic lane, we needed a parking solution that was durable but didn't add to the city's stormwater runoff issues.
We collaborated with our friends at Urban Turf to install a permeable parking space. Unlike solid asphalt, this system allows rain to soak into the ground, reducing the burden on Ottawa’s storm sewers. To soften the look and add biodiversity, we will be returning this spring to plant the spaces with Limestone Calamint (Clinopodium arkansanum). When the car pulls out, the driveway will look—and smell—like a garden.
Replacing Rot with Stone
The existing backyard deck was rotting and built awkwardly right up against a large tree. It was time for it to go.
We replaced the hulking wood structure with a small wooden landing that transitions into a curved flagstone patio. In small urban yards, curves help soften the harsh rectangular lines of fences and buildings. This patio is sized perfectly for a bistro set and a BBQ—proving you don't need massive square footage to have a functional dining area.
Uncovering the Root Flare
As landscape professionals, this was the most critical part of the project.
The old deck had been built tight against the tree, and over the years, gravel had been piled up, burying the trunk. When we pulled back the gravel, we discovered the tree’s root flare (the base where the trunk widens into roots) was buried under 12 inches of gravel! Burying the root flare suffocates a tree and causes the bark to rot, eventually killing it. We carefully excavated the area to let the tree breathe again. It’s a good reminder: if you are renovating near trees, always keep the soil and stone away from the trunk.
Tapestry Lawns for Play
The clients have a little one, so they needed a surface that was soft enough for play but more ecological than traditional turf grass.
We installed two tapestry lawns:
A Shade Mix: For the area under the tree canopy.
A Sun Mix: For the exposed areas.
Tapestry lawns are low-mow, mixed-species groundcovers that stay green, support pollinators, and stand up to foot traffic better than a pristine grass lawn.
The Reality of Construction
The original plan included installing a Toja Grid pergola this season. However, during the work, we discovered some structural issues with the house that needed attention from another contractor. We had to deconstruct part of the plan to give the other team space to work. And that’s okay! Landscape construction requires flexibility. We are grateful for clients who understand that doing it right is better than doing it fast.
We are excited to return in Spring 2026 to reinstall the pergola, plant the Calamint, and watch this urban revival come to life!
Ready to transform your downtown space? Whether you have a historic driveway or a shady backyard, we can help you find the ecological potential in your property.
