LOCATION: Victoria BC | TYPE: Arbor | COMPLETED: 2014 | CLIENT: Private Residence | Budget: $10,000
John G and his wife were looking to improve the curb appeal and functionality of their property in preparation for selling. An old wooden staircase connecting a patio to an upper deck had rotted and was unsafe; while the under-deck storage was practical, it needed refinement, with just a tarp covering the entrance. Additionally, a small, unstable wooden step outside the sliding glass door was a safety concern and detracted from the property’s overall appeal. John wanted the property to make a strong first impression on potential buyers and needed a solution that would enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of these spaces.
During our consultation, I saw an opportunity not just to replace the stairs but to transform the space entirely. I suggested building a custom sliding door with a stained-glass window to create a unique focal point and provide secure, attractive storage.
John needed more than just a new staircase and step—he wanted peace of mind. With the old stairs rotting and the property going on the market, he felt pressure to make the outdoor space safe, attractive, and ready for potential buyers. He was looking for someone to take care of all the details for him, as he had plenty of other things to focus on while preparing the home for sale. By addressing these outdoor improvements, John hoped to increase the property’s value and reduce the stress of getting it ready for the market.
The primary challenge was the deteriorating, unsafe staircase, which detracted from the property’s appeal and posed a safety concern. Additionally, the under-deck storage was functional but looked unfinished with only a tarp covering the entrance. The area around the staircase was dominated by hard rock, with little greenery to soften the look or make the space feel welcoming. The bare cliff face added to the harsh appearance, making the outdoor space feel more barren than inviting. John also faced the obstacle of time—he needed to get everything in order quickly and without hassle as the property was about to hit the market. Without addressing these issues, he risked lowering the home’s value and missing out on the higher selling price he hoped to achieve.
John had originally hired another contractor to fix their deck, but the project remained unfinished. The contractor completed part of the decking but had to leave the job, likely due to time constraints or it being beyond his expertise. While some progress had been made, the deck still needed railings, the under-deck storage was incomplete, and the step outside the sliding glass door was unsafe, wobbling on an uneven surface. These unfinished projects left John feeling unsure how to fix things without spending too much money or time, especially as he aimed to get the highest possible price for his home.
When I stepped in, I knew the solution needed to not only complete the work but also enhance the property’s appeal, especially with a home inspection looming as part of the sale process. Here’s what we did:
The completed project exceeded John’s expectations and helped him prepare the property for sale with confidence. The new staircase was safe, sturdy, and fully compliant with local building codes, ensuring there would be no issues during the home inspection. The boulder step created a unique, natural look that fit seamlessly with the outdoor space and avoided the need for costly concrete work. The custom sliding door for the under-deck storage not only secured the area but also became a focal point with its stained-glass window, adding character and visual interest to the property. The planted cliff face and boulder step brought much-needed greenery, softening the hardscapes and adding a natural touch to the once-barren area.
Whether you’re preparing your home for sale or simply looking to transform your outdoor space, you deserve solutions that combine beauty, functionality, and peace of mind. Contact us today to discuss your project and see how we can help you create an outdoor space that adds value and reduces stress!
Some landscapes you can take in with a single glance—neat, obvious, done. Others tug at you. You find yourself stepping off the deck, following a curve in the path, drawn by the sound of water or the glimpse of something just out of sight.
Suzanne, a professional working from a home office in Nanaimo, needed a solution to mask the neighbor’s garbage and recycling area visible directly from her office window. She wanted a calming environment suitable for professional video calls and daily work.
Building your watergarden dreams.
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Parksville
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Cedar
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Nanaimo Watergardens & Landscaping respectfully acknowledges that it operates as an uninvited guest of the Snuneymuxw and Snaw-naw-as people on their traditional and unceded territory.
