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Combining Stonework and Decking for a Multi-Level Yard

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If your yard isn’t perfectly flat, you might see a challenge, but we see an opportunity. Sloped or uneven terrain often gets overlooked, but with a bit of creativity, it can become one of the most dynamic parts of your home. By combining stonework and decking, you can turn a tricky backyard into a stunning, multi-level retreat with purpose-built spaces and incredible visual appeal.

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Let’s look at how thoughtful design and smart material choices can turn elevation into inspiration.

Using the Slope to Your Advantage

Most homeowners see a slope and think “problem.” But with the right layout, your yard’s natural incline can actually become one of its best features. By strategically combining stone and deck levels, you can make the most of the terrain rather than working against it.

Decking allows you to create elevated platforms that level out your outdoor living space without the need for major excavation. Stonework, like retaining walls or tiered steps, provides support and structure while adding natural texture and beauty. Together, they let you build up and out, creating usable square footage where there was none before.

Large elevated deck above pool with stairs

Create Entertaining Zones

Multi-level yards are perfect for creating distinct entertaining zones, and the combo of decking and stone is a natural fit. For example, the top level might serve as a cozy dining area on a wood or composite deck, while a mid-level patio with stone pavers could house a firepit or lounge space.

This setup keeps everything organized and gives your guests the feeling that they’re moving through different “rooms” in your yard, without actual walls. Want a built-in grill station? Add it to the stone patio. Need a quiet reading corner? Tuck it onto a small deck landing beneath a tree. The options are endless.

Achieve Visual Separation Without Fences or Walls

One of the major design benefits of layering decking and stonework is the natural visual separation it creates. Instead of building fences or putting up dividers, changes in elevation and material create a sense of separation between spaces while maintaining flow and openness.

This is especially useful in urban or narrow yards where space is limited. Rather than cramming everything onto one flat surface, elevating a section with a deck and bordering it with stone gives the illusion of more space and more purpose.

Tie It All Together

For your multi-level yard to really work, transitions matter. Use stone steps or curved retaining walls to connect spaces gracefully. Choose complementary materials and colors between the wood and stone so it feels cohesive rather than patched together.

Lighting, railings, and plantings also help unify the look. Even small additions like a low stone border around your deck or planter boxes built into the retaining wall can make a big impact.

Patio with stone pavers, BBQ, and composite steps

Let MPS Help Build Your Perfect Outdoor Space

Turning a sloped yard into a multi-level masterpiece doesn’t happen by accident. It takes thoughtful design, experience, and attention to detail. At MPS, we specialize in combining decking and stonework to transform outdoor spaces into functional, beautiful extensions of your home.

Whether you want to create better flow, build out entertaining zones, or make the most of your slope, we’re here to help. Contact MPS today for a free consultation and let’s build a yard you’ll actually use and love.

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What’s the Difference Between Spring, Summer, and Fall Planters in Ontario?

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Gardening in Ontario offers unique opportunities with each season, from the types of plants to growing conditions and colors. Understanding the distinctions between spring, summer, and fall planters helps create vibrant displays throughout the year.

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Spring Planters

Plants for Spring: Spring planters in Ontario are all about celebrating the end of winter and welcoming new growth. The focus is on hardy, early-blooming plants that can withstand the cool temperatures of early spring. Key choices include:

  • Tulips: Bright, cheerful blooms in various colors.
  • Daffodils: Early bloomers with vibrant yellow and white petals.
  • Pansies and Violas: Frost-resistant flowers in deep purples and bright yellows.
  • Hyacinths: Fragrant, colorful spikes adding height and dimension to planters.

Growing Conditions for Spring: Spring in Ontario can be unpredictable, with fluctuating temperatures and the risk of frost. Select plants that are frost-tolerant and adapt well to changing conditions. Choose well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots from spring rain. Position planters in sunny spots to maximize growth since spring plants require plenty of sunlight.

Summer Planters

Plants for Summer: Summer planters thrive with heat-loving, sun-loving plants that bring bold, vibrant colors to your garden. Consider these options:

  • Geraniums, Petunias, and Calibrachoas: A classic combination that thrives in full sun, offering continuous blooms in shades of red, pink, white, orange, and purple.
  • Lantanas, Verbenas, and Salvias: These attract pollinators and add vibrant clusters of flowers in various colors. Salvias also provide height with their spiky blooms.
  • Zinnias, Marigolds, and Ornamental Grasses: Heat-tolerant and pest-resistant, these plants bring bright hues and a soft, airy look to your planters.
  • Begonias, Impatiens, and Sweet Potato Vines: Ideal for shaded areas, these plants offer a range of colors and a lush, trailing effect.
  • Cannas, Coleus, and Elephant Ears: For a tropical feel, mix these plants with striking foliage and bold colors that thrive in summer heat.

Growing Conditions for Summer: Summer planters need plenty of sunlight and regular watering to combat the hot weather. Check soil moisture daily and water deeply to maintain root health. Fertilize regularly to support continuous blooming. Deadheading spent flowers helps encourage new growth and prolongs the blooming season.

Fall Planters

Plants for Fall: As temperatures cool, fall planters offer a chance to play with rich colors and textures. Hardier plants that can withstand cooler nights and shorter days are ideal:

  • Mums (Chrysanthemums): Dense, colorful blooms in shades of yellow, red, orange, and purple.
  • Asters: Daisy-like flowers in blue, purple, and pink.
  • Ornamental Cabbages and Kales: Frilly leaves in purple and green add texture.
  • Heucheras (Coral Bells): Striking foliage in colors from lime green to deep burgundy.
  • Sedum (Stonecrop): Succulents with fleshy textures and pink or red blooms.

Growing Conditions for Fall: Fall brings shorter days and cooler nights, meaning less frequent watering is needed. Plants for fall planters are usually drought-resistant and can handle light frost. The cooler weather helps retain soil moisture, so overwatering should be avoided. Position planters to receive full to partial sun for optimal plant health.

Colors and Themes for Seasonal Planters

  • Spring Colors: Soft, bright, and cheerful, with pastel pinks, purples, whites, and yellows that evoke a sense of renewal and freshness.
  • Summer Colors: Bold, vibrant, and lively with hot pinks, reds, deep purples, sunny yellows, and bright oranges. The season is about making a colorful statement with a mix of plant textures.
  • Fall Colors: Rich, warm hues like deep oranges, fiery reds, and golden yellows, reflecting Ontario’s changing foliage. You can also experiment with purples, browns, and blues for dynamic contrasts against autumn colors.

Conclusion

Each season offers unique opportunities to bring color and life to your outdoor space. Spring planters celebrate new beginnings with frost-resistant blooms, while summer planters thrive in the heat with vibrant, sun-loving plants. Fall planters provide warmth and depth with hardy plants suited for cooler weather. By selecting the right plants and understanding their specific growing conditions, you can enjoy beautiful planters throughout the year, each reflecting the charm of its season. Embrace the seasonal changes and let your planters tell a story all year round!

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Hardscape vs. Softscape Landscaping – What’s the difference?

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When designing a landscape, it’s important to understand the difference between hardscape and softscape.

Hardscape

Hardscape refers to the non-living elements of a landscape design. This includes structures like patios, decks, pathways, retaining walls, and other built environments. These elements are permanent and often constructed using materials like stone, brick, concrete, or wood. Hardscaping plays a critical role in defining spaces, providing functional areas, and managing slopes and soil erosion.

Softscape

Softscape, on the other hand, includes the living components of a landscape, such as plants, trees, shrubs, flowers, and sod. These elements are dynamic and change with the seasons and growth. Softscaping adds color, texture, and life to a landscape, contributing to its aesthetic appeal and ecological balance. It also helps manage water, absorbing rainwater and reducing runoff.

Municipal bylaws often require that a certain percentage of front and backyard areas be allocated to softscape. This ensures an environmental balance and efficient water management. These regulations make sure that while homeowners can enjoy the structural benefits of hardscaping, enough green space is preserved to support local ecosystems and natural water infiltration.

Balancing hardscape and softscape is essential for creating a cohesive and functional outdoor space. Proper planning ensures that hard elements provide structure and usability, while soft elements offer beauty and environmental benefits. Whether you’re planning a new garden or renovating an existing one, integrating both aspects thoughtfully will result in a harmonious and sustainable landscape design.

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Artificial Grass Turf

Should I Install Artificial Turf or Natural Grass for My Backyard Putting Green?

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Backyard putting greens are quickly becoming a very popular backyard landscape feature we’re seeing being requested in the Markham and greater Toronto area. Residential putting greens look great, provide a fun outdoor activity and might even help with your golf game! When contacting a landscape contractor to design and build your backyard putting green, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether artificial turf or real grass is a better choice for you. There are pros and cons to both materials, so we’ve broken it down to make your decision easier!

Cost

Either option will run you about $10-20 per sq ft depending on the choice of turf and size. Artificial turf will have a larger upfront cost, but it is essentially maintenance-free. While the initial investment for artificial turf can be steep, the long-term savings on maintenance costs might make it more economical in the long run.

Maintenance

Artificial turf is low maintenance. It doesn’t require watering, cutting, fertilizing, or weeding. A quick sweep or power wash is all it needs to stay in top condition. This makes artificial turf an attractive option for those who prefer a hassle-free solution.

On the other hand, real grass requires a significant commitment to upkeep. You’ll need to invest in a special lawn mower and dedicate time to everyday maintenance for your putting green. This includes regular watering, mowing, fertilizing, and weeding. The everyday maintenance can be time-consuming and may require professional help to keep the grass in optimal condition for putting.

Performance

When it comes to performance, both artificial turf and real grass have their own benefits. Artificial turf provides a consistently smooth and fast playing surface, which is ideal for practicing your golf game. It remains green and playable year-round, regardless of weather conditions.

Real grass, particularly the Creeping bentgrass, is widely considered the best for premium putting greens. Its finely textured blades allow balls to roll easily, with less resistance, for smooth, fast play. However, maintaining this high-quality surface requires diligent care and attention.

Versatility

Artificial turf is highly versatile and can be installed in areas where natural grass might struggle to grow, such as shaded spots or areas with poor soil quality. It’s also an excellent option for smaller backyards and dog runs, where constant use might damage real grass.

Real grass offers a natural look and feel that many homeowners prefer. It also contributes to a healthier environment by producing oxygen, filtering pollutants, and providing a habitat for wildlife. However, achieving a lush, healthy lawn requires favorable growing conditions and regular maintenance.

Ease of Cleaning

Artificial turf is easy to clean. A quick sweep or hose down is usually enough to keep it looking pristine. For pet owners, artificial turf is particularly advantageous as it can be easily sanitized to remove pet waste.

Maintaining the cleanliness of real grass can be more challenging, especially if you have pets. Pet waste can damage the grass and create unsightly spots. Additionally, fallen leaves, twigs, and other debris require regular removal to keep the grass looking neat.

Environmental Impact

Artificial turf does not require water, which is a significant advantage in regions with water restrictions or during drought periods. However, it is made from synthetic materials, which may not be as environmentally friendly as natural grass. Additionally, artificial turf can become very hot in direct sunlight, potentially affecting the usability during summer months.

Real grass, while requiring substantial water and chemical inputs, offers environmental benefits such as carbon sequestration, natural cooling, and supporting biodiversity. The choice between the two often comes down to weighing these environmental impacts against each other.

Learn about our commitment to the environment.

Conclusion

Choosing between artificial turf and real grass for your backyard putting green depends on your priorities and lifestyle. If you prefer a low-maintenance, consistently high-performing surface, artificial turf might be the best option for you. It’s particularly suitable for those with smaller backyards, dog runs, or areas where natural grass struggles to thrive.

However, if you value the natural aesthetic and environmental benefits of real grass and are willing to invest the time and effort required for maintenance, a real grass putting green could be the perfect choice. Creeping bentgrass, with its smooth, fast-playing surface, is an excellent option for those who want a premium golf experience at home.

Ultimately, both artificial turf and real grass have their own set of advantages and challenges. Consider your budget, maintenance preferences, and environmental impact when making your decision. Whatever you choose, a backyard putting green can be a beautiful and enjoyable addition to your home.

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Should I Get A Backyard Fire Pit – Pros & Cons of Fire Features At Your Home

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Backyard fire pits are a great way to extend the enjoyment of your landscape. Through chilly spring days, cool summer nights and crisp fall days, a backyard fire pit adds warmth, light and a place to gather. So whether you’re warming up after a swim or making smores with the kids, fire features give you an added activity in your backyard, especially once the sun has gone down.

If you’re wondering ‘should I get a backyard fire pit?’, here is our list of pros and cons

Pros:

  • Fire pits emit heat, increasing comfortability outside
  • Visually appealing
  • Allows you to enjoy your landscape longer throughout the year
  • Added outdoor activity

Cons:

  • Certain types of fire pits require more maintenance and upkeep
  • Local authorities may have regulations around the type of fire pits you can have
  • Burn hazard for children
  • Fire hazard

Once you’ve decided to get a backyard fire feature – The first question you’ll want to ask yourself is what you’ll be using the fire pit for, do you need it to be portable or are you planning to invest in a permanent landscape fire feature? There are multiple different types of backyard fire pits, from permanent fire features to portable fire tables and chimeneas.

Type: Permanent wood-burning fire pit

Type: Portable wood-burning fire pit

Type: Gas burning fire table

Once you’ve decided on the general purpose of your fire pit, it’s important to consider what source of fuel you’d prefer. Fire pits typically use the following fuel sources.

  • Wood – inexpensive, requires work to keep the fire stoked, classic bonfire esthetic and smell, ashes can make a mess, smokey
  • Propane – most expensive, easy to light and turn off the fire, no smoke, adjustable flame, portable
  • Natural Gas – expensive, easy to light and turn off, needs permanent gas hook-up, adjustable flame, no smoke

The landscape designers at MPS love to include fire features into+ their landscape designs. If you’re interested in creating a landscape design with a backyard fire pit, contact us today!

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Designing and Building an Outdoor Kitchen

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As Canadians, we don’t want to waste a second of the short-lived summer weather we receive. The desire to entertain and spend time outside became even more important during the COVID-19 pandemic. This has led to an increase in requests for backyard landscape designs which include outdoor kitchens or BBQ stations. Designing and building an outdoor kitchen or BBQ station is a great way to make summer entertaining easier and more inclusive for the cook! Not to mention that on those hot summer days, cooking outside is enjoyable and helps keep your house cool.

The most important part about designing an outdoor kitchen is defining the intended function of the space; are you looking for a simple BBQ station or extravagant fully functioning outdoor kitchen? As the complexity of the design increases, so will the cost and the number of contractors required to install your cooking area (think electricians and plumbers). Choosing the location of your outdoor kitchen or BBQ station is important too, it should be somewhere convenient, close to the house, fits into the flow of your outdoor space, and be in a protected area. Designing and building an outdoor kitchen in Ontario is a lot different than somewhere with year-round warm weather. In Ontario you will need to factor the extreme seasonal weather changes into your design, and be realistic towards how many months you’ll be able to use this cooking space.

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Outdoor kitchens and BBQ stations in Canada will require winterization, this is important to remember when you’re planning the design. The more complex your kitchen is, the more work it will require to open/close for the season.

Once you’ve decided what function your outdoor kitchen or BBQ stand is going to serve, you can start choosing the design materials and appliances. Due to the harsh elements, choosing durable materials, that are specifically designed for Canada’s climate, are imperative. Choosing outdoor cabinetry and outdoor countertops to withstand stains, heat, scratches & abrasions, UV light, and additional weight of snow in the winters is also an important factor in your decision. Fortunately, there are lots of products on the market to choose from!

Here are some appliances to consider for your outdoor Kitchen or BBQ Station:

  • BBQs and Grills
  • Refrigeration
  • Side burners
  • Outdoor oven
  • Beverage center
  • Warming units
  • Ice Machine
  • Dishwasher

Contact us today to discuss your outdoor kitchen or BBQ station design!

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8 Fun Outdoor Games & Activities to Play with Your Kids this Summer

Once the temperatures warm up and it starts feeling more like summer, our attention inevitably turns to the outdoors. It’s no secret that life was quite different last summer and seems like it might be again, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get outside and make it memorable for your kids. Sometimes, the most simple games create the best memories, and these games and activities are sure to make it a special summer, even if your options are limited.  

1. Frisbee 

Before your kids can really understand the positioning required for games like soccer, they can still enjoy tossing a frisbee back and forth. It doesn’t require much physical strength and kids of all ages can usually play together.  

2. Bean Bag Toss 

With some dishes and bean bags, you can set up a fun bean bag toss challenge for the kids. Ask kids to aim for the pans, and put them progressively farther away to heighten the challenge. 

3. Water Balloon Dodgeball 

Cool off and have some fun with balloons full of water. We suggest you divide the family into two teams and have two buckets of water balloons for throwing. It’s also a good idea to divide family members of varying skill levels so it’s a fair fight.  

4. Nature Scavenger Hunt 

If you have access to a nature area or park, you can design a scavenger hunt to challenge kids of any age. For younger children, choose simple objects like stones and leaves. Get more specific for older children and ask for different leaves, bugs and birds and then cross them off as they see them. 

Make the most of this summer by playing outside with your kids! At MPS Property Services we believe in creating outdoor spaces for your family to enjoy. Contact our team of experts today to set up a landscape design consultation. 

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5. Capture the Flag 

If you have a few children of about the same age, capture the flag is a great game to play. Any kind of fabric can be the flag. Be sure to set contact rules before you start! 

6. Four Square 

Chalk and a driveway are all you need for this one. Draw four squares onto the pavement and number them one to four. Have one kid sit in each square and make up rules about how and when players can pass the ball. Part of the fun as a kid is making up your own rules. 

7. Hop Scotch 

You have the chalk out, so why not let the kids be creative and draw a hopscotch board? Show them a few tricks if they have never played the game before. 

8. Red Light, Green Light 

Set up an area for kids to run; ideally in a straight line. Ask one child to be the conductor, who tells kids “green light” for go and “red light” for stop. The first kid to cross the finish line without moving on “red light” wins and gets to play conductor next. 

Looking for some fun ways to entertain your kids this summer? Ditch the electronics and play outside! Create an outdoor space adults and kids will enjoy all summer long, contact our team of experts we would be happy to help! 

Sources: 

https://www.wired.com/2009/08/simpleoutdoorplay

https://www.familyfuntwincities.com/outdoor-games-for-kids

https://www.fatherly.com/play/classic-outdoor-games-and-how-to-play-them

https://activeforlife.com/21-active-beach-games

https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/fun-at-home/g32758163/best-summer-games-outside

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5 Most Trending Colours for Outdoor Furniture & Accents 2021

Colour can be one of the most exciting aspects of any home design, and outdoor furniture is no exception. If you’re looking to update and refresh your patio space, then adding furniture or accents in new colours is an excellent idea. To guide you, we’ve collected the best outdoor furniture colour trends for 2021.

1. White and Monochrome Pallets

The best colour for outdoor furniture cushions might not even be a colour. White is making a huge resurgence in outdoor décor and for good reason. An all-white pallet, perhaps mixed with the natural woods and other materials outside, makes for a very clean and modern look. Consider adding dark woods to make it more Mediterranean, or rattan and teak for a California vibe.

2. Earthy Tones for the Outdoors

Earthy tones are a great place to start when you’re looking for patio colours for 2021. Between your wooden deck and wooden furniture, you can end up with a very consistent look if you choose Earthy tones. Some of our favourite options include:

  • Terracotta
  • Charcoal
  • Auburn
  • Evergreen
  • Alpine green
  • Cedar
  • Redwood
  • Sienna
  • Coffee
  • Lion
  • Khaki

We suggest you pick two or three of these shades and pair them with a consistent shade of wood.

Are you looking to create an outdoor living space for you and your family? Our experts are ready to help design and create your new living space.

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3. Bright and Warm

Want to ditch the modern look entirely and infuse some life into your patio? The outdoors are a great place to experiment with unexpected colours that you would worry about putting inside of your home. Jump on the bandwagon of warm, bright shades. After all, people are used to seeing bright colours in the garden. Consider colourful outdoor furniture in these shades:

  • Saffron
  • Mustard
  • Sunglow
  • Carrot orange
  • Tangerine
  • Pumpkin

4. Seascape Colours

Tempted to pick out some blue patio furniture? You can choose vibrant blues and soften them up with a variety of seascape colours and materials. The nautical theme is a natural choice for summery outdoor spaces and can be as vibrant, or as muted as you want. Pick out your favourite shades of blues, like Maya blue, Sapphire or Azure, and pair them with seascape colours like:

  • Coral
  • Cream
  • Parchment
  • Antique white
  • Champagne
  • Cosmic latte
  • Lion

Also, consider adding in ropes, cotton, copper, and gold as materials to increase the seascape feel even more.

5. Canada Themed

Around July, you might pull out your red and white outdoor cushions to make your space feel a little more patriotic for Canada Day. Why not make the theme a bigger part of your outdoor space? Red and white are a bold combination that works all year, so long as you have lighter wood materials to soften it.

Do you want to upgrade your outdoor landscaping? Contact our team at MPS Property Services today to book a consultation.

Sources:

https://www.hackrea.com/stories/outdoor-living-trends-2021

https://blog.shadowspec.com/outdoor-design-trends-2021

https://www.loveproperty.com/gallerylist/104053/the-biggest-home-and-garden-trends-in-2021

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