Landsculpting is Landscaping in its highest form.  Too often Landscaping is thought of as yard maintenance, that is: mowing, raking and weeding… tasks that the “boy next door” is perfectly capable of… then later and without any formal training, as he gets busier; the boy next door graduates from lawn-mowing, when he buys a beat-up old pick-up-truck and begins to offer his services as a Landscaper… however, this does not make him a Landscaper.  Without the years of formal specialty schooling and apprenticeship coupled with a decade of hands-on, in-depth training, while gaining vast experience under the supervision of his trainer and mentor; “the boy next door” cannot respond properly to the vast array of challenges involved, in true landscaping.

 

Indeed, the ‘Profession of Landscaping’ is a complex and diverse discipline, and much more than a way to earn pocket-money during the summer…

 

In fact the knowledge base is so wide-ranging that only a team with comprehensive skills, combining the science and artistry of Architecture, the knowhow and craftsmanship of Construction, with knowledge in domains as diverse as Horticulture, Botany, Engineering, Urbanism, Sociology, etc. can meet the tremendously rich callings of Landscaping; only a true artist can rise to the vocation of Landsculpting.

 

Construction materials and techniques employed in their installation, span from those traditionally used; to the latest cutting-edge and ‘green’ technologies.  Every material is a world unto itself, with its associated specialized-trade, requiring years to master.

 

The successful Landscaper will not try to master them all… This can only lead to mediocrity.

 

To truly succeed, and become a master of his trade; he will need to orchestrate the best skilled, of these highly specialized trades in a coordinated Team of Specialists and distinguished Craftsmen.  Ideally, this Crew functions like a well-oiled machine, all working together for a professional, experienced, finely tuned, and one-stop organization, such as www.masterlandscapers.ca and, under the supervision of a Master Craftsman.

 

The advantages of having a single company take care of a Clients’ various outdoor living concerns are multi-fold:  First of all; this unified crew can master the most efficient and logical sequence for the diverse elements to be built, consequently maximizing the use of labour, materials and machinery.  Secondly; many elements tie-in together and certain functions overlap.  A stable, well-coordinated team will be able to reduce redundancies.  Another advantage is from a planning and execution perspective.  Simply: The entire process is seamless, and the finished product can be delivered within reduced timelines.  An important factor to consider is warrantees; it is impossible to guarantee work that numerous constructors have been involved with.  Finally, and certainly of importance to most clients, is the clarity and simplicity of having one company to deal with, from design through to final product.

 

Home owners, who understand the rich benefits of developing their landscape, are rewarded by much more than accrued property value.  Their lifestyles are enhanced immeasurably.  Humans thrive on fresh air, beauty and peace.  We all need a sanctuary to escape the turmoil of life, reconnecting with the elements and ourselves…  The projects that Landscapers design and build provide secure environments of beauty, with the power to transform lives for generations; however, when poorly executed, they can result in unsightly, inefficient spaces, which can lead to property damage, even loss of life.  This is why it is paramount to work with a master landscaper, who can offer superior dimensions of outdoor experience.

 

So much of the landscape lies beneath the surface, invisible, yet of extreme importance.  If neglected, or incorrectly installed, vital elements, such as proper drainage and adequate sub-base materials, can have extensive negative consequences.  Retaining walls that fail produce disastrous landslides.  Heaving ground, due to temperature and humidity variations, places pressure on buildings, walls and paths, deforming and ultimately destroying these constructions.  With the right precautions, these built elements can endure natural weathering gracefully, providing a lifetime of service.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Water will always find a way.” This fundamental guiding-principle, if fully integrated, can insure the longevity of our built environment.  The first steps to control the damage of flowing water, or stagnation of sitting water is the comprehension of soils, climatic conditions, and how best to respond to the lay of the land in order to properly direct water, as well as applying the appropriate methods and technologies to remediate any given hydrodynamic situation; thus alleviating the devastating results of the eroding passage and accumulation of water.

 

A healthful site has a perfect balance of irrigation and drainage, allowing the grounds to breathe, while maintaining the correct humidity levels for optimal growth.  Even in climates with ample precipitation, careful provisions must be made for the brief, hot intervals that can exterminate plant life.

 

Water is the ultimate source of life, and mastering it is one of the most serious aspects of landscaping, giving demanding challenges to even the most seasoned landscapers.  Often, the culminating touch in a garden is its water feature, which offers serenity with dreamy reflections, and gurgling songs…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While landscaping is a highly technical field, it is also a high art form.  The Art of Landscaping, or Landsculpting, lies in harmonizing all the technical parameters with the human concerns of land usage, while also producing an aesthetic and meaningful environment.  Like all great works of art, there remains an element of mystery in what imbues a landscape with that spark of inspiration, elevating it to Art.  Experience married with talent and dedication are essential ingredients.  The Landsculptor needs to have a strong vision, unencumbered by common practice, able to uncover unique solutions that can be executed with creativity and mastery.

 

By: The Master Landscapers Consulting & Design Team

 

www.masterlandscapers.ca