Calgary Embraces Outdoor Transformation: A Green Future Landscaping Inspires Homeowners for a Thriving Season Ahead!
Revolutionizing Downtown Calgary’s Drainage and Landscape with A Green Future
Downtown Calgary is no stranger to high-traffic areas, bustling businesses, and unpredictable weather. On 17 Ave SW, where heavy foot traffic meets the demands of commercial parking lots, effective drainage solutions are essential for preserving both function and aesthetics. A Green Future recently completed an ambitious, large-scale drainage and landscaping project that transformed this key area into a low-maintenance, visually striking landscape, showcasing the perfect combination of practical solutions and decorative design.
The Importance of Proper Drainage
Before diving into the project details, it’s essential to highlight why effective drainage solutions are crucial in urban environments like Calgary. Heavy rainfalls, melting snow, and poorly managed water flow can wreak havoc on parking lots, sidewalks, and building foundations. Without a well-designed drainage system, water can accumulate, leading to structural damage, costly repairs, and hazardous conditions for pedestrians and drivers alike.
For this reason, A Green Future was called in to tackle the challenge of revamping a high-traffic location with a comprehensive drainage solution paired with stunning low-maintenance landscaping.
Drainage Solutions: French Drains, Catch Basins, and More
This project focused on integrating several critical drainage components to ensure efficient water management across the area. Our team installed:
French Drains: Designed to redirect water away from problem areas, French drains use a perforated pipe system surrounded by gravel, allowing water to flow into the pipe and away from the surface. This prevents pooling and water damage in the landscape.
Catch Basins: Essential for parking lots and large paved areas, catch basins were installed to collect and direct surface water into underground drainage systems. They help to keep parking lots and surrounding areas free from standing water, reducing the risk of erosion and improving safety for drivers and pedestrians.
Parking Lot Drainage and Drywell Excavation: To manage water flow from the expansive paved surfaces, we incorporated advanced parking lot drainage systems. Drywells were excavated to absorb excess water that catch basins couldn't handle, ensuring proper filtration and dissipation of stormwater into the ground.
Rockscaping: The Perfect Low-Maintenance Solution
The project didn’t stop at drainage. A major transformation involved replacing the existing grass with a sustainable, low-maintenance rockscape. Grass in urban settings can be difficult to maintain, requiring regular mowing, watering, and care. By removing the grass and implementing a rock-based landscape, we provided the property owner with a cost-effective, low-effort solution.
Washed Rocks as the Base Layer: After removing the grass, we placed washed rocks as the foundational layer. These rocks provide excellent drainage, preventing water from pooling while adding texture and durability to the landscape.
Rundle Rocks (40 mm) as the Top Layer: For added aesthetic appeal, we used rundle rocks (40 mm) as the top layer. These dark, smooth stones are perfect for giving landscapes a modern, sleek appearance while requiring virtually no upkeep. The contrast between the darker rundle rocks and the lighter washed rocks beneath adds depth and visual interest.
Decorative Features: Birch Trees, Cobble Edging, and Limestone
To bring the landscape to life, we added a few key design elements that enhanced the visual appeal while maintaining the practical benefits of the rockscaping. Around three birch trees, we created a charcoal cobble edging in a circular design, enclosing the trees with a polished, clean finish. Inside this area, we used limestone (40 mm) to complete the look, providing a complementary texture and color contrast that elevated the overall design.
The birch trees not only serve as a natural centerpiece for the landscape, but they also benefit from the rockscaping, as the improved drainage ensures their roots remain healthy and free from excess moisture.
Asphalt Removal and Parking Lot Transformation
Another significant part of this project was the removal of damaged asphalt and the installation of a new parking lot catch basin. This ensured that the parking area would remain free from standing water, which could cause cracks, potholes, and safety hazards for vehicles and pedestrians.
Once the catch basin was installed, we patched the asphalt to restore the parking lot’s smooth surface, completing the project with a clean, professional finish.
Completing a Major Project in Just Four Days
This transformation was no small feat, yet the A Green Future team completed the entire project in just four days. Despite the scope of the work—drainage system installation, rockscaping, tree design, asphalt removal, and patching—our efficient process and skilled team ensured that the job was done on time without sacrificing quality.
The result? A beautifully designed, low-maintenance landscape that provides superior drainage, long-term durability, and an impressive visual impact for the property.
Why Choose A Green Future?
A Green Future is proud to be a leader in providing innovative landscaping and drainage solutions throughout Calgary. Our team of experts takes a holistic approach to each project, ensuring that both functionality and aesthetics are prioritized. With years of experience in handling everything from small residential projects to large-scale commercial transformations like the one on 17 Ave SW, we’re confident in delivering outstanding results on time and within budget.
Whether you need drainage improvements, low-maintenance rockscaping, or a complete landscape overhaul, A Green Future has the expertise and dedication to bring your vision to life.
Ready for Your Transformation?
If you’re looking to enhance your property with practical drainage solutions and beautiful landscaping, contact A Green Future today. Our team is ready to tackle projects of all sizes, offering personalized solutions that meet your specific needs. Let us help you transform your outdoor space into something both functional and stunning.